Assisted Living Changed for the Better During COVID-19

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has put our team to the test as frontline workers, caregivers and medical personnel. We are so proud to say that our infection control expertise, the fast implementation of our health and safety initiatives, as well as our dedication to teamwork, has made senior living in Cape May County safer than ever before.

UNITEDforSAFETY™: A leading COVID-19 initiative for United Methodist Communities

Understandably, many people were concerned about moving into assisted living during COVID-19, but the team at UMC knew that seniors needed access to more help – not less – during this time. We are proud of the implementation of UNITEDforSAFETY across all of our full-service senior living communities in New Jersey.

Once the pandemic hit, our associates put their heads together and sprung into action to protect those who needed it the most. The UNITEDforSAFETY standard is a set of comprehensive protocols, procedures and equipment to combat COVID-19 and other potential health risks.  

Some examples of the UNITEDforSAFETY procedures are…

• Utilizing negative air pressure machines
• Using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certified products that kill 99.9% of bacteria on a daily basis
• Regular screenings of residents, associates, visitors, and vendors
• Limiting communal activities and indoor visitation
• Enhanced cleaning of resident rooms, communal spaces, and other high-touch areas
• Mandating hand washing and strategically placing hand sanitizer stations throughout the building
• Requiring social distancing and a quarantine period if necessary 
• Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as needed

Moving into 2021 with more innovative ways to connect

It is definitely possible to create a social life for seniors in assisted living during the pandemic. It isn’t easy, but we truly understand how important it is for older adults to stay active and engaged at all times. With that said, we’ve incorporated new ways to keep seniors in touch with family and friends, and to keep their social calendars full while minimizing COVID-19 risks.  

• Color-Coded Levels of Socialization. Our color-coded zones allow our associates to understand what guidelines are in effect (i.e. outdoor visitation, dining, socialization, and limited indoor visitation with PPE required).

• Zoom Calls. All residents have access to iPads, tablets, and computers, along with technological assistance from our associates. Not only can residents more easily connect with their families, but they could also join Zoom sessions with their fellow residents for group social activities. 
• Theme Days. With proper health and safety guidelines in place, there’s no reason why our residents can’t participate in themed activities like “Disney Day” or “Pajama Day.” At UMC at The Shores, we love our fun theme days and will keep them coming in the New Year! 

Leading the way in community safety for seniors in Cape May County

Today, we are more than ready to bring your loved one into our community. We’ve come out of 2020 a stronger, more proactive, and COVID-aware community that works harder than ever to prioritize senior health and safety, as much as senior independence.

To find out more about our senior living community in Cape May County, contact us today or visit our website at: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Originally posted: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/assisted-living-changed-during-covid-19/