Western Home Communities Celebrates National Assisted Living Week
From September 7–13, Western Home Communities joined assisted living organizations across the country in celebrating National Assisted Living Week® (NALW). This year’s theme, “Ageless Adventure,” encouraged residents, families, staff, and friends to embrace the spirit of exploration, discovery, and joy at every stage of life.
Established in 1995 by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), this annual observance highlights the vital role assisted living communities play in caring for seniors and individuals with disabilities. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate the meaningful connections that make assisted living such a vibrant and important part of long-term care.
Adventures at Windhaven and Stanard Family
Joyce Cutshall reads to inspire kindergarteners’ artwork
At Windhaven and Stanard Family Assisted Living, residents enjoyed a week-long journey “around the world.” They laughed and connected through games like Around the World Bingo and balloon volleyball, and gathered for a screening of the classic film Around the World in 80 Days. A highlight of the week came when the Cedar Heights Kindergarteners visited. Residents read stories aloud, and the children created artwork inspired by the tales they heard, creating a beautiful intergenerational exchange of imagination and learning.
Gene Snyder tries to win at Around the World BINGO
The week also blended seamlessly with Homecoming festivities, as residents joined the excitement of the parade and enjoyed a concert on Caraway. To bring the theme to life even more, each day featured cuisine inspired by a different country. From France and England to Japan, India, Madagascar, and Italy, residents experienced a world of flavor without ever leaving home.
Creative Connections at Thalman Square
Janet Lynch beams as a kindergartner assists with a project
At Thalman Square, residents explored the theme of “Ageless Adventure” through hands-on crafts and activities tied to each day’s featured country. On Japan Day, they created colorful fish, while India Day inspired the design of intricate mandalas. England Day brought out their playful side with a Stonehenge Toss game. When Cedar Heights Kindergarteners came to visit, residents and children enjoyed making an apple-themed craft together, further strengthening the connection between generations.
Fran Pasby takes her turn at Stonehenge Toss
The week also included an engaging nature program with Hartman Reserve, along with daily opportunities to learn fun facts about the culture and traditions of each highlighted country. These activities not only celebrated creativity but also encouraged residents to reflect on the joy of discovery.
Welcoming the Community
LaVonne Edwards and Spencer Steffy are ready to greet the public at the AL Open House
On Thursday, September 11, both Windhaven and Thalman Square opened their doors for a special Open House. The public was invited to tour the facilities, meet staff, and ask questions about life at Western Home Communities. For Thalman Square, this was an especially meaningful moment—it marked only the second time the public had been invited to tour since the remodeling of their main community area. Guests had the chance to see firsthand the warm, welcoming spaces where residents gather, as well as the engaging lifestyle that makes assisted living at Western Home so unique.
Thalman Square was remodeled last year
Natalie Jones gives a tour at Thalman Square
Anne Noyes poses with fun “Around the World” photo props
A Week to Remember
National Assisted Living Week® was a meaningful reminder that adventure doesn’t have an age limit. Whether through games, cultural experiences, creative projects, community tours, or time spent with children, residents embraced the joy of learning and connection in countless ways. At Western Home Communities, we are proud to celebrate our residents, staff, and community partners who make every day purposeful.
Staff Kirbi Heiple & Shyanne McNally at Stanard Family get in on the fun with resident Jim Steiert.
The “Ageless Adventure” theme was a perfect reflection of the spirit within our communities, and the memories created during this special week will continue to inspire us throughout the year.