Statement on National Nurses Week

* Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize National Nursing Home Week, which began nationwide on May 8, and concludes on May 14th. This year's theme, ``Fulfilling the Promise,'' was selected to honor those who are serving others, thus adding value to life. National Nursing Home Week is a time to reach out to older Americans in these facilities who have given so much to our communities and country. They are our loved ones, our veterans, our teachers, nurses, friends, and much more.

* It's also a time to better understand the valuable work of nursing home staff. They provide quality care day in and day out, focusing on person-centered care so that elderly and disabled residents can live life in a meaningful way. All across America, nursing homes provide fulfilling places to work, employing millions of Americans even in these tough economic times. In West Virginia alone, nursing homes and other long term care facilities make up one of the state's largest industries and employers. These jobs make nursing homes a critical component of local and state economies. In West Virginia, they support an estimated $1.7 billion of the state's economic activity and $38.6 million in tax revenue.

* As this year marks the first year that baby boomers will reach the age of 65, the critical role that long term care facilities play will only become more important. These facilities will be even more critical in states like West Virginia where we have the second highest percentage of citizens who are over the age of 65.

* Let us all celebrate the critical work of nursing homes in caring for our nation's seniors, employing Americans and strengthening the economy. I ask all Americans to join me in celebrating National Nursing Home Week by taking part in local activities and ceremonies around the country.

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