SYRACUSE, Ind. – Mother’s Day started a week-long series of special events at Miller’s Merry Manor in Syracuse meant to encourage patients, families, communities and caregivers in the nursing center to “joyfully share life in order to create a better world.”

The activities are part of National Nursing Home Week, May 11-17, an annual observance sponsored by the American Health Care Association of Washington, D.C., and the Indiana Health Care Association. This year, the organizations have chosen the theme of “Living the Aloha Spirit” for the week, in honor of the attributes embodied in the Hawaiian word of farewell.

According to information released by AHCA, the word “aloha” has key attributes that include patience, kindness, good feelings and respect in caring about others. “The goal of post-acute care and rehabilitation is to offer person-centered care in a professional and compassionate environment,” stated Bryan Zehr, administrator.

“When patients, family members, and caregivers come together to build relationships and create a positive environment based on these qualities, they can work as a team to achieve the goals they’ve set; satisfaction increases, and the chances for success increase with it,” added Zehr. “At Miller’s, we value the relationships we have with our patients and our community, and we look forward to the chance to celebrate with them during National Nursing Home Week.”

Some of the week’s special events include:

Tuesday, May 13, Glitter & Sparkle Day, 2:15 p.m. Anna Hagen harpist entertains

Wednesday, May 14, Wild Animal Day, 2 p.m. Mark’s Ark small animal show

Thursday, May 15, Living the Aloha Spirit/Hawaiian Day, 2 p.m. Fun & Games

Friday, May 16, Fun Fair Day, 1:30 p.m. Carnival Games and food (cotton candy and popcorn)

Miller’s Merry Manor, is part of Miller’s Health Systems Inc., a 100% employee-owned company and is proud to be celebrating 50 years of service to Indiana seniors.