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National Assisted Living Week (NALW) kicks off on Sept. 13 this year, recognizing assisted living communities, their residents and caregivers with the theme “Shining Through the Years.” The annual observance, led by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), encourages assisted living communities around the U.S. to offer events for residents, families and the public.
Here’s what you need to know about NALW, including the meaning, theme and some vibrant examples of our clients’ activities and events.
What is National Assisted Living Week?
Every September, National Assisted Living week begins on Grandparents Day, the first Sunday after Labor Day. NCAL established the week in 1995 to recognize the role of assisted living as a distinctive aspect of long term care for older Americans and people with disabilities.
The week celebrates the lives of residents and the dedication of caregivers. It also educates the public and raises awareness about assisted living as a compassionate, supportive long-term care option. Assisted living communities invite the public to events where they share stories, build relationships and grow understanding. NCAL provides an annual theme, as well as planning guides and promotional materials.
What’s happening at National Assisted Living Week 2026?
This year’s theme for National Assisted Living Week, Sept. 13-19, “Shining Through the Years,” honors the lives and stories of residents and the important role of care staff in helping residents continue to shine.
NCAL’s website says National Assisted Living week is a unique opportunity to honor the individuals who live, work and volunteer in assisted living. That includes residents, their loved ones, staff, volunteers and local communities all joining in the activities.
In the announcement for this year’s theme, NCAL Executive Director LaShuan Bethea said, “Shining Through the Years reflects what makes assisted living so meaningful: the people.”
She continued, “It’s about honoring residents for the lives they lead and the wisdom they share, while also recognizing the caregivers and staff whose compassion and dedication help that light continue to shine every day.”
The week also marks a milestone: NCAL’s 25th anniversary. NCAL Board Chair Sarah Silva said, “For decades, NCAL has been focused on supporting providers like me with policy efforts, quality improvement, advocacy and everything in-between to ensure we have the resources to deliver high-quality resident care both today and for many years to come.”
Assisted living communities throughout the country are holding events including decade-themed celebrations, resident talent shows, living history displays, intergenerational storytelling, creative arts showcases and caregiver appreciation.
How our clients are celebrating
Celebrating the stories of residents can include various ways of passing on wisdom or advice, whether videos or other interactive events. MorningStar Senior Living MorningStar of Billings recently shared pictures on social media of their Wisdom Tree, displayed in their front lobby.
Carlton Senior Living is featuring questions answered on their website by a resident, called Ask Mavis. The answers are meant to respond to prospective resident and family questions, but they’re also an avenue for Mavis to share stories of her life, like this short video.
Several communities have open house events during National Assisted Living Week. Cogir Senior Living is inviting the public to a Barnyard Bash at Cogir of Stock Ranch, with live acoustic country music, a petting zoo and pie tasting.
Programs like Watermark University at Watermark Retirement Communities find ways to shine the light of shared experiences beyond just National Assisted Living Week. Watermark at Bellevue included an event where dining team members shared cultural traditions and foods. “Learning isn’t limited to texbooks or classroom,” the community shared on social media. “It can come from people around us and the experiences they’re willing to share.”
Join the #NALW discussion
It’s never too late to celebrate assisted living communities and the residents they serve. Join the cause by reading more on National Assisted Living Week. Join in the discussion on social media with #NALW.
To see how Yardi Senior Living Suite clients are encouraging ageless adventure through resident-centered care every day, read their stories.
