Capturing the Spirit of Ageless Adventure

Every September assisted living communities across the country celebrate National Assisted Living Week® (NALW) to honor the residents, team members, volunteers, and families who make these communities so vibrant. This year, from Sept. 7–13, the celebration is themed “Ageless Adventure,” a fitting tribute to the lifelong spirit of exploration and discovery that continues regardless of age.

Hosted by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) and sponsored by PharMerica in 2025, NALW offers a meaningful opportunity to showcase the value of assisted living and the people who make it so special. At PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®), this celebration is deeply aligned with our mission and our everyday commitment to enriching lives through person-centered care.

“There is an inherent desire for experience and adventure no matter what stage of life someone happens to be in,” said NCAL Executive Director LaShuan Bethea. “Assisted living utilizes person-centered care to support residents through their different ideas of adventure, allowing us to honor them in an exciting and unique way.”

Adventure, Reimagined

At PMMA, adventure takes many forms. It may look like joining a morning movement class or learning how to video call with grandkids. It may mean rediscovering a love for painting or writing. Or it may be as simple yet profound as building new friendships during shared meals and conversations.

Each of our assisted living communities creates opportunities for meaningful engagement that reflect the unique interests and aspirations of the individuals who live here. That might be through senior hobbies-based programs, cultural experiences, educational opportunities, or senior activities that encourage both fun and wellness.

We believe adventure never retires, and that belief is central to how we design every aspect of life in our communities.

One of the most vibrant examples of this spirit is our Art is Ageless® program, which empowers residents to explore the arts as a means of personal expression, connection, and celebration. Whether picking up a paintbrush for the first time or continuing a lifelong passion, participants share their talents through exhibits, performances, and storytelling.

Related: The role of social interaction in senior health and aging gracefully

The Power of Creativity and Purpose

This year’s NALW theme encourages assisted living communities to think big. From themed events and senior activities, NALW becomes a time of reflection, celebration, and connection.

It’s also a time to thank the people who support our residents every day, from caregivers and culinary teams to therapists and volunteers. Their work makes daily adventures possible.

What Ageless Adventure Means at PMMA

For us, ageless adventure is more than a week-long theme. In every PMMA community, we support residents living with intention and purpose. That means honoring their life stories while making space for new chapters.

Whether it’s pursuing lifelong learning, starting new senior hobbies, or forming new social connections, our goal is to create senior living communities where aging is celebrated as a meaningful, enriching journey.