National Assisted Living Week

“Family isn’t always blood, it’s the people in your life who want you in theirs: the ones who accept you for who you are, the ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what.” Those heart-warming words are attributed to the late poet Maya Angelou. We can all find truth in her statement, whether this espousal of love makes us think of blood relatives, friends or caregivers.

The National Center for Assisted Living is inspired by Angelou’s quote for the theme of the 2017 National Assisted Living Week: “Family is Forever”. National Assisted Living Week (September 10-16) provides an opportunity to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for the aging senior population across America. First established in 1995, this week-long celebration offers events and activities to applaud the seniors who live in assisted living communities and help the general public understand this aspect of senior care. The seniors who live in assisted living environments continue to contribute to their local communities through volunteerism, philanthropy, as well their wisdom and expertise.

So what is assisted living? Assisted Living through Evergreen Senior Living, known as Evergreen Place, is an option for seniors who want to live independently, but may need a little help with some of their daily activities. Seniors who choose an Assisted Living lifestyle can expect discreet assistance with personal activities like grooming, medication management and 24-hour wellness support from the caregiving team.

Assisted living communities in the Evergreen family can be found in Normal, Orland Park and Chillicothe, Illinois. In addition to personal care services, housekeeping and laundry services are also included. Seniors live in their own apartments, where our maintenance team provides a worry-free living environment. Residents bring their own furniture to their apartment, so they can feel at home with their favorite treasures. Transportation is available, and many residents still drive their own vehicles. Social activities are designed to help seniors enjoy their hobbies and talents. The Evergreen Place culinary staff provides three healthy, delicious meals daily – with a variety of menu options and places to eat.

Family isn’t always blood, and this is very true in an assisted living community like Evergreen Place – the residents, staff and volunteers become close and develop real, lasting bonds. It is so much more than just delivering medications or dusting an apartment. Caregivers provide loving care to the residents, they treat them like their own and go above and beyond to give them a comfortable lifestyle that allows the residents to flourish, live healthy lifestyles and enjoy each day. Every resident leaves a positive impact on the people providing that care – through the friendships they develop, the experiences they share and the wisdom they impart. National Assisted Living Week is an opportunity to pay tribute to these bonds of family, friendship and care, and to recognize that no matter whom you count as your family – family is forever.

Learn more about the activities planned at the Evergreen Place Assisted Living nearest you (Normal, Orland Park or Chillicothe) by visiting our website and reaching out to learn how you can participate in National Assisted Living Week, too.