Proclamation Presented to Parker at McCarrick
By Fern Marder
On May 9th, residents and staff of Parker at McCarrick gathered on the patio to witness Franklin Township Councilwoman Rozalyn Sherman and Councilman James Vassanella present a proclamation from the Mayor and Township Council. The document proclaims the week of May 8th to 14th as National Nursing Home Week, “to honor our vulnerable citizens who receive care and the dedicated ones giving care.” National Nursing Home Week was established by The American Health Care Association (AHCA) in 1967, as the first full week in May.
While addressing the audience, Parker at McCarrick Administrator Jim Zauner spoke about all the nursing home staff and care partners who support each resident with person-directed care, social interaction, and a compassionate heart.
On behalf of Franklin Township Mayor Chris Kelly, Councilwoman Sherman read the proclamation aloud and noted that it urges all citizens to visit a loved one, family member or friend residing in any care setting to spend quality time with their loved ones to show love and support.
Councilman Vassanella stated that he was happy a premier long-term care facility is located in Franklin Township, noting that the population of older Americans is expanding and there is a growing need for daytime assistance or long-term care. The Councilman is no stranger to Parker at McCarrick. His father attended McCarrick’s Adult Day program and his grandmother was also a resident there. Vassanella visited his grandmother at McCarrick frequently and fondly recalls making time to see her before each business trip.
Ken, a resident of Parker at McCarrick, spoke to the audience about living in the home: “This is a great time to live in a facility. We’re not in an old age home because there are so many clubs and activities. You should enjoy yourselves at all times.”
Parker was honored by the proclamation and the visit by the council members. And we are touched by the testimonial of our resident. Both attest to the highest ideals of nursing homes, as celebrated in National Nursing Home Week.