HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

152nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 133

DESIGNATING THE WEEK OF MAY 12 TO MAY 18 AS "NATIONAL SKILLED NURSING CARE WEEK" IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

WHEREAS, the week of May 12 to May 18, 2024, has been designated as National Skilled Nursing Care Week® (NSNCW), an observance that honors the dedicated care provided in skilled nursing centers across the nation; and

WHEREAS, this year’s theme, "Radiant Memories: A Tribute to the Golden Age of Radio," celebrates the rich tapestry of stories and experiences of those who reside and work within skilled nursing care centers, recalling an era cherished by many of our community’s elders; and

WHEREAS, skilled nursing care providers play a pivotal role in delivering compassionate care to Delaware and America's elderly and individuals with disabilities; and

WHEREAS, the recognition for the need for increased number of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, advanced practice nurses, certified nursing assistants, infection preventionists, physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapists, dietary aides, activity staff, nursing home administrators, environmental services, facility maintenance, housekeeping, dietary managers, physician assistants, medical directors and all dedicated workers in the skilled nursing setting; and

WHEREAS, according to the Delaware State Plan on Aging, Delaware is acknowledged as a rapidly aging state - “From 2015 the population of the state over 85 will have grown by 171.6% since 2015, with Sussex County growing over by 255.1%”; and

WHEREAS, the average age of individuals who are admitted to skilled nursing facilities for short-or long-term stays is 78.5 years old with needs with seven or more activities of daily living. Approximately 63% of residents of long-term care receive care under the Medicaid program; and

WHEREAS, NSNCW acknowledges and celebrates the invaluable contributions of skilled nursing care centers and their staff to the lives of residents and their families.

NOW,THEREFORE:

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the 152 ^nd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the Senate concurring therein, that the week of May 12-18, 2024,be recognized as National Skilled Nursing Care Week® in Delaware and encourage all community members to recognize and participate in NSNCW activities and events. This week serves as a testament to the essential role that skilled nursing care plays in our communities and in the lives of many individuals and their families.

SYNOPSIS

This resolution designates May 12-18 as “National Skilled Nursing Care Week” in Delaware.