Fort Kent ~ In observance of National Nursing Home Week, Forest Hill Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center held multiple events to engage residents, families and friends during the weeklong celebration. The American Health Care Association (AHCA), which established the special week in 1967, has chosen this year’s theme to be It’s a Small World, with a Big Heart to commemorate a historical time for older adults. The AHCA chose the theme because it symbolizes staff and families embracing the resident with individualized care, social interaction, and a compassionate heart.
In keeping with the theme of a Small World, many of the Forest Hill celebratory activities revolved around virtual travel to other countries. Kicking off on Mother’s Day, residents experienced China, Mexico, France and Africa. Live music by The Old Strings Band, Elaine Tardif Bossie, Gerald and Friends and The Sunshine Boys brought each country’s theme to life. Some of the highlights were: participation in a Mexican Hat dance, a French tradition of dipping strawberries in chocolate sauce and enjoying them with sparkling cider, playing African drums and enjoying the soothing characteristics of a Chinese friendship garden. Residents were also encouraged to dress the part of each country and the menu for the week reflected the different cuisines. In addition to enjoying the cuisine that each country has to offer, residents learned interesting facts about each country’s political structure, population and culture. Theresa Violette, one of Forest Hill’s residents said, “We learn every day, but this week we’re not getting older, we are getting younger.” To become involved and to contribute to the quality of life of our seniors, contact Forest Hill’s Activities Coordinator, Charlene Taggart at 207-834-1859.
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