There have been some significant changes in senior-living communities since the advent of COVID-19. We going to discuss some of the changes in our blog today.

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  Visitors

  
  

In most provinces there are restrictions on visitors to senior communities. This is because seniors are considered a vulnerable population for COVID-19 in part because of age, and also because pre-existing medical conditions are a risk factor.

For several months only one specific person was allowed to visit someone in a senior community on any regular basis. This is starting to change in Alberta in some places, and outdoor visits have been allowed. However, outdoor visits have not been allowed everywhere, and now that autumn is upon us, outdoor visits won’t be so much fun as the weather gets colder.

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  Hygiene

  
  

There is now much more emphasis on hygiene everywhere—not just in senior-living communities. People are encouraged to wash their hands more, and hand sanitizer is available everywhere.

Residents are encouraged to stay in if they have so much as a sniffle, and many people wear masks in any public areas. Most staff are wearing masks inside.

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  Activities

  
  

Group activities are different. If they exist at all, there is much more spacing between individuals. Where possible, virtual activities are encouraged, such as meetings by video conferencing. Residents are also learning how to do all kinds of activities online, from classes, to museum tours, to games, and socializing.

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  Communication

  
  

Communicating with family members is now more through instant messaging, phone calls, and video conferencing rather than in person. We are encouraging communication, just not the in-person kind.

While change can sometimes be difficult, we are all getting used to these changes and making the best of the situation. A positive outlook is the best attitude for all of us to take during trying times.

Cedarwood Station is an independent-living, senior community in Airdrie, Alberta, just north of Calgary. Guided by the tenets of Christian faith, and with a stellar staff and multiple amenities, Cedarwood Station, is the premier senior-living choice for the area.