COVID-19 Response

We want you to know we are closely monitoring the outbreak of the COVID-19. As the number of cases in the United States continues to rise, we remain in close contact with health officials and we want to share our plans for the coming days with you.

We understand this virus is a concern for everyone and our strategy is based on an abundance of caution – we want to be proactive but also reasonable about any changes to day-to-day operations. We have already implemented an enhanced cleaning protocol, and we are limiting any non-essential visitors. We are working with our Village team members to ensure they do not come to work when sick and we ask that residents alert us immediately if they are ill so we can take appropriate action and provide aid. Residents who are ill will need to remain in their apartments and consult their physician if they have difficulty breathing, have a fever and/or cough.

We want to be proactive and let you to know that in the event of confirmed cases of the virus in our area, we will take the following steps immediately:

• We will discontinue dining room service for meals, but deliver meals to individual apartments
• We will limit large social gatherings in the community, postpone events that involve outside guests and limit outings to crowded locations outside the community
• We will stop the use of outside volunteers and entertainers

The above steps will be taken only if there are confirmed cases in the area.
Health officials agree the best defense is frequent hand washing using proper hand-hygiene by scrubbing with warm water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer is useful but does not replace washing with soap and warm water. You should also avoid touching your face and keep your hands away from your nose and mouth.

We are continuing to prepare for any situations that may arise, and we have a solid protocol to handle outbreaks. We will continue to provide updates as needed as this situation changes and more information becomes available.

Advice for older adults and/or their caregivers, family and friends:

This information is culled primarily from the CDC and the American Health Care Association. It is in addition to the critical prevention measures of washing hands often, covering your mouth when you cough, not touching your face or nose, and staying home when sick.

• Do not visit senior friends or family members if you feel sick.
• Do not visit senior residences or facilities if you feel sick.
• It’s important to check in with senior friends or family members often now, so they don’t feel isolated and so you can see how they’re feeling. If you feel sick, do this by telephone.
• You can also connect via Skype or video-chat if he or she uses this technology.
• Ask the staff of The Village at Eastgate to help you stay in touch with a resident if you feel sick.
• Don’t visit sick friends or family, connect with them through the phone.
• If you or a friend or family member feels sick (especially with symptoms of the cold or flu) call a doctor or advice nurse before going to the hospital. If you feel very sick call 911.
• Notify The Village staff if you feel sick (especially with symptoms of the cold or flu).
• A medical expert is the best person to tell you how to get treatment if you feel sick, based on your symptoms.
• Again, if you or a loved one feel very sick such as having difficulty breathing call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
• If you are a senior or helping an older adult, keep doctor and hospital contact numbers handy.  Village residents please make sure your Envelope of Life is up to date.
• Have an adequate supply of medications and personal care items to last at least 14 days.
• Face masks are not recommended for the general public as a way to prevent people from getting the virus. Unless a mask is fit professionally, it offers little protection. Masks can create a false sense of security.
• If you know any older adults who live alone and don’t have strong social support, reach out to them now to check in. Social support is healthy.
• Fresh air is healthy. The person-to-person contagious reach of the virus is estimated at 6 feet, which means you must be within six feet of an infected person to catch it from their cough or sneeze.

The situation is changing rapidly. Stay updated by checking the Centers for Disease Control website.