UNION — The past week has been one big celebration at Ellen Sagar Nursing Home.
This week was National Nursing Home Week, and Ellen Sagar has hosted festivities for both staff and residents all week.
National Nursing Home Week (NNHW) is a national observance that invites citizens nationwide to celebrate and promote the relationships that exist between nursing home residents, family members, staff and the greater community.
NNHW spotlights nursing home residents and staff and encourages all to celebrate those that make a positive difference in their lives every day. The week also provides an opportunity to honor all those who contribute to our nation’s nursing homes — residents, family members, employees and volunteers.
The week began on Sunday with a Mother’s Day reception. Monday was Hillbilly Day, when staff dressed as hillbillies and hillbilly cars were available for viewing and rides. According to Staff Development/Employee Health/Infection Control Nurse Tammy West, one resident who recently turned 100 rode four times in one of the hillbilly cars.
“We have all just had a ball this week,” West said.
Tuesday was Sports Day, and a picnic was held on facility grounds. Impressionist Wayne Willard performed as Dean Martin, and administrator Jeff Barber also hosted Super Bingo. Thursday was Wacky/Tacky/Nerd Day, which prompted staff to be creative with funny costumes, and an ice cream social was also held.
On Friday, which was 50s and 60s Day, there was a special appearance by “The King.”
Activities Director Donna Nance said every time she asks residents what sort of entertainment they would like next, they always request their favorite — Elvis.
Elvis impersonator Rick Wade performed for residents and staff Friday afternoon, which had many of the residents singing along and dancing in their chairs.
“That’s right, girl, just tear that chair up!” he yelled to one of the residents who danced in her seat.
West said the week-long celebration has been for the staff — including nurses, dietary, therapy and housekeeping — as much as the residents.
West said 44 gifts were donated by local businesses, and residents have drawn staff members’ names each day to pick the winners. The facility also held fundraisers including yard sales, bake sales, as well as percentage donations from both El Poblano Mexican Restaurant and La Fogata Mexican Restaurant to provide food and entertainment for the celebration.
All staff on all shifts were treated to special food and snacks all week.
“It’s been awesome!” she said. “We’ve had so much participation. You wouldn’t believe how the businesses in Union have participated.”
Staff Writer Derik Vanderford can be reached at 864-427-1234, ext. 29, or by email at dvanderford@civitasmedia.com.
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