Nursing Home Week Dates: Celebrate & Honor Caregivers
According to the American Health Care Association (AHCA) and the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), National Skilled Nursing Care Week (formerly Nursing Home Week) begins each year on Mother’s Day — the second Sunday in May — and continues through the following Saturday. In 2025, the celebration will take place from May 11 through May 17, 2025.
Each May, this week shines a heartfelt spotlight on the unsung heroes of senior care — the compassionate nurses, CNAs, therapists, administrators, cooks, housekeepers, and volunteers who make nursing homes across America feel like home.
This special week reminds us of a simple truth: behind every cared-for senior stands a caregiver who gives a piece of their heart daily. For U.S. families with aging parents or loved ones in long-term care, Nursing Home Week is more than a calendar event — it’s a week of gratitude, connection, and community spirit.
History of National Nursing Home Week
The first National Nursing Home Week was established in 1967 by the American Health Care Association (AHCA) to recognize the dedicated men and women providing care to America’s elderly. The week’s timing — beginning on Mother’s Day — was intentional. It symbolizes the nurturing, family-centered values that caregivers bring into their work every day.
Over time, the event evolved into what’s now known as National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW) to reflect the clinical expertise, professionalism, and holistic support that modern long-term care facilities provide.
For nearly 58 years, this celebration has honored over 1.4 million skilled nursing professionals working across 15,000+ nursing homes in the United States. It’s a week filled with community events, recognition ceremonies, and personal moments of appreciation.
Nursing Home Week 2025 Dates & Theme
In 2025, Nursing Home Week will be celebrated from Sunday, May 11, through Saturday, May 17.
Each year, AHCA/NCAL releases an official theme that guides activities, decorations, and community involvement. The 2025 theme (expected to be announced in early spring 2025) typically highlights resilience, compassion, and the power of human connection in skilled nursing care.
Example from previous years:
- 2024 Theme: “Radiate Kindness” — celebrating positivity and the power of kindness to transform care environments.
- 2023 Theme: “Cultivating Kindness” — focusing on growth, empathy, and teamwork in nursing facilities.
The themes often serve as a moral compass for the week — reminding communities to cherish seniors, celebrate caregivers, and reflect on the bonds that make nursing homes special places of love and comfort.
Why Nursing Home Week Matters?
Behind every resident’s smile is a caregiver’s tireless effort. Nursing Home Week exists to shine a spotlight on the emotional and physical work caregivers perform daily — work that often goes unnoticed.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the United States employs over 1.5 million nursing assistants and 2.9 million registered nurses. Many of them serve in skilled nursing or long-term care settings. These professionals provide around-the-clock care, emotional comfort, and dignity to seniors who can no longer live independently.
Nursing Home Week matters because it:
- Honors caregivers for their compassion and dedication.
- Boosts morale within nursing home teams.
- Encourages families and residents to express gratitude.
- Builds community awareness about senior care needs.
- Promotes a culture of respect and empathy toward older adults.
It’s not just a “thank you” — it’s a celebration of humanity.
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How to Celebrate Nursing Home Week 2025?
You don’t need an extravagant event to make Nursing Home Week meaningful. Sometimes, the smallest gestures — a handwritten note, a shared meal, or a cheerful visit — leave the biggest impact.
For Nursing Home Administrators:
- Host an Opening Ceremony: Start the week with a welcome speech and a caregiver recognition moment.
- Daily Themes: Create fun daily celebrations (e.g., “Memory Lane Monday,” “Talent Tuesday”).
- Staff Appreciation Luncheon: Cater meals or invite local restaurants to donate lunches.
- Photo Wall of Heroes: Display staff photos with uplifting messages from residents and families.
- Employee Awards Night: Recognize outstanding caregivers in different departments.
For Families & Loved Ones:
- Send Gratitude Cards: A simple note from the heart means the world to caregivers.
- Bring Treats or Flowers: Small gifts brighten staff rooms and hallways.
- Volunteer Together: Join the nursing home’s activity days or help decorate.
- Share Stories: Write about how caregivers have positively impacted your loved one’s life.
- Social Media Shoutouts: Post a tribute using hashtags like #NursingHomeWeek2025 or #ThankACaregiver.
For Residents:
- Talent Shows: Give seniors a stage to showcase their hobbies or skills.
- Bingo & Trivia Nights: Classic favorites that bring laughter and connection.
- Memory Collage Activity: Residents and staff can share photos and memories together.
- Intergenerational Events: Invite local schools or scout troops to perform or interact with residents.
- Relaxation Days: Include spa sessions, music therapy, or pet therapy sessions.
Ways to Honor Caregivers
Caregiving isn’t a 9-to-5 job — it’s a calling. Honoring those who answer that call creates a ripple effect of positivity.
Personal Ways:
- Write thank-you letters to individual caregivers.
- Gift customized name badges or coffee mugs.
- Share handmade art or crafts from residents.
Community-Level Recognition:
- Host a local media feature spotlighting caregivers.
- Encourage mayors or city councils to issue official proclamations.
- Organize a community appreciation breakfast.
Thoughtful Gift Ideas:
- Wellness gift baskets (candles, teas, self-care items).
- Personalized “Hero of Care” certificates.
- Team-building activities or gift cards.
Remember: the goal isn’t the price tag — it’s the message of gratitude.
Daily Celebration Themes & Ideas
Here’s a fun sample schedule nursing homes can use during Nursing Home Week 2025:
| Day | Theme | Activity Example |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday (May 11) | Mother’s Day Kickoff | Family brunch, flower gifting |
| Monday | Memory Lane Monday | Display old photos, play favorite songs |
| Tuesday | Teamwork Tuesday | Staff team games and appreciation awards |
| Wednesday | Wellness Wednesday | Meditation sessions, health talks |
| Thursday | Thankful Thursday | Residents write notes to caregivers |
| Friday | Fun Friday | Carnival, karaoke, or ice cream party |
| Saturday (May 17) | Spirit Saturday | Closing ceremony and recognition |
Inspiring Caregiver Quotes
“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.” — Tia Walker
“Nurses dispense comfort, compassion, and caring without even a prescription.” — Val Saintsbury
“It takes a special kind of person to care for others day in and day out with a smile.”
“They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
How Families Can Participate?
Family involvement is the heart of Nursing Home Week. Your presence means more than any gift.
- Visit and share meals with loved ones.
- Record short video messages of gratitude for staff.
- Bring framed family photos to decorate residents’ rooms.
- Donate care packages with snacks or puzzle books.
- Offer to help staff during busy activity hours.
Simple gestures often create lifelong memories.
Supporting Caregivers Beyond the Week
Recognition shouldn’t stop on May 17. Long-term care workers face emotional and physical challenges year-round. According to a 2023 AHCA survey, over 60% of caregivers report high levels of burnout.
Ways to continue support:
- Establish monthly recognition days.
- Provide professional development opportunities.
- Offer mental health resources and wellness breaks.
- Encourage open communication and feedback.
By nurturing those who care for others, we nurture our entire community.
Final Thoughts
Nursing Home Week 2025 isn’t just another event on the calendar — it’s a reminder of humanity at its best. It’s about saying thank you to the caregivers who show up every single day with empathy, patience, and love.
As we approach May 11–17, 2025, let’s fill nursing homes with laughter, gratitude, and light. Whether you’re a family member, resident, or community supporter — your appreciation makes a difference.
Because when we honor those who care for our elders, we strengthen the fabric of compassion that holds our society together.
FAQs
When is Nursing Home Week 2025?
It runs from May 11 to May 17, 2025, starting on Mother’s Day.
Who organizes Nursing Home Week?
It’s coordinated by the American Health Care Association (AHCA) and National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL).
What’s the purpose of the week?
To honor caregivers, celebrate seniors, and promote awareness about the skilled nursing care profession.
How can families celebrate?
Through visits, thank-you notes, social media posts, and small appreciation gestures.
What is the 2025 theme?
The AHCA/NCAL will release the official theme in early 2025 (check ahcancal.org for updates).
