National Nursing Home Week celebrated at Schervier Pavilion

WARWICK-A trip to a bowling alley, several social get-togethers and a visit by a popular entertainer all occurred at Schervier Pavilion during the celebration of National Nursing Home Week, May 8-15. However, the events are not out of the ordinary for the skilled nursing facility, which is part of the Warwick Campus of Bon Secours Charity Health System. "Therapeutic recreation," said Kari Call, "is essential to the quality of life and the quality of care of individuals receiving health and human services." Call, a certified therapy recreation specialist, serves as director of recreation at Schervier Pavilion. Her job is to provide recreation resources and opportunities for the residents seven days a week. "We publish a calendar every month that's filled with interesting and entertaining events for our residents throughout the day as well as some evenings," she said. National Nursing Home Week was established by the American Health Care Association to honor those who promote quality of care at nursing home facilities, including residents, family members, volunteers, community, and staff. According to the Association, the theme for this year's celebration, "Taking Center Stage," is meant to emphasize that everyone has a role to play in providing that care and that there are no small parts. "I would like to take this opportunity during National Nursing Home Week," said Philip Hibnick, vice president for long-term care and administrator of Schervier Pavilion, "to thank all those who provide dedicated and compassionate service for our most vulnerable seniors and persons with disabilities. Thanks to their skill and dedication, we are able to help each resident achieve the highest level of independence possible." Schervier Pavilion is a 120-bed skilled nursing facility licensed by the New York State Department of Health and accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation. Additional information about Schervier Pavilion, Mount Alverno Center, Day-At-A-Time and St. Anthony Community Hospital can be found on the Web site: www.StAnthonyCommunityHosp.org.