PARIS — Plans for a spectacular celebration in honor of National Nursing Home Week are under way at the Maine Veterans’ Home at 477 High St. Annually, the facility takes part in the week-long event sponsored by the American Health Care Association. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Celebrating the Journey.” National Nursing Home Week will be observed in nursing facilities throughout America, beginning on Mother’s Day, May 13, and continuing through May 19.

NNHW recognizes residents in long term care settings who love life to the fullest and the dedicated staff who care for them. The week of observance is an opportunity to involve families, community members, youth and others in a community-wide show of support and respect for these individuals and the staff who provide the care or provide support services.

“Activities scheduled throughout the week will involve our residents, our staff, visitors and families to participate in a week long celebration in our facility,” said Pat Paar, activities supervisor at the 90-bed facility. “Residents will be treated to special programs throughout the week including a Mother’s Day tea, talent show, birthday party, longest banana split party, wheelchair decorating, a Victory Day Parade, an antique car show and themed breakfast and luncheon events.”

Announcing the activities planned for the staff in the facility, Joel Dutton, administrator, listed events such as a baby photo contest, a cook out, opportunities to dress up in theme costumes during resident get-togethers, a chance to dunk administrative staff into a dunk tank and a chance to win an L.L. Bean canoe. Employees have also made plans to gather nonperishable foods to donate to a local food pantry as a way to remember the Great Depression. Additionally, each employee will receive a gift from the facility for their involvement and commitment throughout the year.

For more information about National Nursing Home Week or information about the Maine Veterans’ Home, call 743-6300 or visit www.maineveteranshomes.org.