WASHINGTON, D.C. – Beginning today and continuing through Saturday, Sept. 19, America’s assisted living communities are participating in National Assisted Living Week® (NALW). The national observance, sponsored by Joint Commission, honors the individuals working, residing, and volunteering in assisted living and residential care communities. The weeklong celebration begins on National Grandparent’s Day and offers special activities and events in assisted living communities across the country. 
NALW was created by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995 to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. This year’s theme, “Shining Through the Years,” honors the lives and stories of residents, as well as the important role of caregivers and staff in helping them continue to shine. Throughout the week, residents will be encouraged to share their unique journeys, stories, and contributions of all sizes and significance.
"As we celebrate National Assisted Living Week, we recognize the extraordinary people who live in our assisted living communities, and those staff and volunteers who make it feel like home,” said NCAL Executive Director LaShaun Bethea. “This year's theme is especially fitting as NCAL celebrates its 25th anniversary. This milestone allows us to reflect on how far our profession has come, celebrate the dedication and compassion of our caregivers, and reaffirm our commitment to advancing person-centered care. Assisted living will continue to shine through the years as we seek to empower every resident to live with dignity, purpose, and choice.”
The annual observance is an opportunity for assisted living communities across the country to offer a variety of events and activities to recognize residents as well as educate the public about the importance of assisted living in our nation’s health care continuum. Participating communities are asked to share their celebrations throughout the week on social media by tagging #NALW.
Assisted Living Facts & Figures
- More than one million residents reside in more than 41,400 assisted living or residential care communities across the country.
- The average assisted living community has 33 licensed units.
- The majority of assisted living residents are age 85 and older and more than two-thirds are female.
- Residents typically require assistance with several activities of daily living, including bathing (75 percent) and walking (71 percent).
- There are approximately 512,300 employees in the assisted living profession, including more than 455,000 full-time nurses, nurse aides, and social workers.
Additional facts and figures about assisted living can be found on the NCAL website. Please visit www.nalw.org for more information on National Assisted Living Week®.