Update from Administrator – November 24, 2020
We are happy to report that both staff members that previously tested posted for Covid have recovered and returned to work after quarantining for the recommended period, based on guidance from the CDC and CT DPH.
As you may have seen, more than 60% of Connecticut nursing homes now have at least one COVID-19 positive resident and/or employee. Community spread of this insidious virus is affecting nearly every community in our immediate region and the state.
We are always committed to protecting the well-being of our residents and staff, especially during the challenges presented by the ongoing spread of Covid-19. We understand the emotional impact the separation from loved ones has caused but, as a result of our last positive test result on 11/16/20, we are still in our 14-day period of restriction on visitation. The federal government has directed that nursing homes must be free of positive Covid-19 cases for 14 days in order to be open for in-person visitation with residents. If all goes well with testing this week, we are hopeful that we can start scheduling visits again next week.
In order to prevent an extension on our restrictions, we are reminding our staff to not only practice safeguards against COVID in our center, but to be vigilant outside of our center and share these practices with their friends and loved ones. We still ask you to do your part while in your community and PLEASE wear your mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance. And please promote these very simple precautions with your extended family and friends.
With Thanksgiving upon us this week, below is the menu we have planned for our residents and staff:
Roasted Turkey, Baked Smoked Ham with Fruit Glaze, Apple Herbed Stuffing, Red Bliss Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Butternut Squash, Cranberry Sauce and Pumpkin Pie
Given our current restrictions and goal of keeping our exposure risk low, we are asking you to celebrate Thanksgiving virtually with your loved ones this year. We have ample tablets assigned for our residents to use for virtual visits and will have staff available this week to assist in arranging visits via FaceTime or Skype. You can also drop off a favorite Thanksgiving food or holiday treat for your loved one and we will make sure to get it to him/her.
Please see the attached letter from the Ombudsman’s office regarding safe holiday visits for nursing homes. If you have any questions or need clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.
As a reminder, our next “Town Hall” meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 25th at 1pm. We encourage all residents and family members to call in with any questions or concerns you may have. Our commitment is to be as transparent as possible and work to address any issues that arise. We appreciate the support of our community during this time.
Marisa Jones LNHA, MBA
Administrator