Assisted Living Week

Assisted Living Week originated in 1995, when the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), a constituent organization of the American Health Care Association, established an annual observance to recognize the value of assisted living communities. The initiative was created to highlight the lives and contributions of residents while also honoring the professionals, family members, volunteers, and others who support them. It is observed during a week in September.

From its beginnings, Assisted Living Week was intended to broaden public understanding of assisted living. Rather than presenting these communities solely as places that provide housing and personal care, the observance emphasizes them as social environments where older adults and people with disabilities can build relationships, pursue interests, and maintain meaningful routines. Activities commonly include educational programs, intergenerational events, creative projects, performances, celebrations, and opportunities for residents to share their experiences.

Over time, the observance has evolved alongside the assisted-living sector itself. Its annual themes and community programs have increasingly drawn attention to person-centered care, dignity, independence, belonging, and the importance of connections among residents and the wider community. Assisted Living Week also offers an opportunity to acknowledge the often complex work of caregivers and direct-care employees, whose assistance can affect residents’ health, security, confidence, and quality of life.

Culturally, Assisted Living Week helps challenge stereotypes about aging, disability, and residential care. By inviting families, schools, civic groups, health professionals, and community organizations to participate, it presents residents as individuals with histories, preferences, talents, and continuing aspirations. The week therefore serves both as a tribute to assisted-living communities and as a public reminder that later life and supportive care should be approached with respect, inclusion, and human connection.