Residents and staff at Crandall Medical Center on the campus of Copeland Oaks Retirement Community celebrated National Nursing Home week “Living in the Aloha Spirit.”

In explaining why the theme was chosen, Jason Cicchillo, Crandall administrator said, “The word ‘aloha’ has a deeper significance than a simple greeting. In Hawaiian culture it is important to treat everyone with ‘aloha,’ to interact with love and respect and joyfully share life.”

“By applying this spirit of aloha to daily life, the people of Hawaii are encouraged to treat others with deep care, respect and humility, leading to individuals creating a better world. Key concepts of aloha spirit include unity, kindness, truthfulness, humility and patience. At Crandall Medical Center we encourage everyone: staff, residents, family members and friends, to ‘Live the Aloha Spirit,’ Cicchillo continued.

“The daily goal at Crandall of our staff is person-centered team care in a harmonious, caring environment. Living the ‘Aloha Spirit’ casts a very warm glow over the entire facility for both residents and staff to enjoy,” observed Mariann Mannion, RN, Crandall director of nursing.

To celebrate National Nursing Home Week, special events were planned beginning on Monday with an ice cream social when hats were distributed to staff who were challenged to decorate them in a tropical theme.

Wednesday was observed as “Jimmy Buffett Day” with a theme revolving around parrots. Residents and staff enjoyed smoothies in flavors of the South Pacific islands. Thursday was designated as “Crazy Hat Day” when staff appeared in their decorated hats.

National Nursing Home Week at Crandall

The week’s main event was a Polynesian Pizza Party on the Patio for residents and staff with entertainment by Heather Hendricks of Sebring who preformed Hawaiian hula dances. Residents also enjoyed snow cones while decorating their own beach bag. Winners of the “Crazy Hat Contest” were announced and prizes awarded.

“National Nursing Home Week (NNHW) is a way for today’s elder care communities to proactively communicate that rehabilitation and nursing centers are light years ahead of what may be thought of as ‘Grandma’s nursing home,’ “ commented Phil Braisted, Copeland CEO. “This special week is meant as a rallying point to thank our dedicated staff for the excellent care they provide to our residents every day and way to foster a positive attitude toward living and working in long term care centers. Crandall Medical Center is proud to participate,” he continued.

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