Page 67 - BusinessWest September 28, 2020

residents began to make them feel better. Moran said the configuration of the Atrium made it possible to allow residents out of their
apartments and still keep them safe. “Because we have the space, we were able to socially dis- tance our residents while still allowing them to
their loved ones, so they do air hugs and things like that.”
Videoconferencing through platforms like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime have been effective ways for families to stay connected — and send air hugs to their loved ones — when a physical
living community. The arrival of COVID-19 has moved much of that activity from in-person meetings to videoconferences. For families who want a tour of the facilities, Tamilio said virtual tours have been an effective alternative to an actual visit.
“We can connect them to our community and help them feel engaged,” she said. “Video- conferencing also allows us to bring together multiple family members from different loca- tions to answer all their questions in one meeting.”
Cardillo is still able to meet with families in-person in Armbrook’s private dining area by using social distancing and requiring masks for everyone. Before the meeting, she will have a phone conversation and send information so that, when a family arrives for the meeting, they have some idea about the community.
“I will show them apartments, but we can’t wander around the building anymore,” she noted. “That’s the only thing that’s really changed.”
While Moran is not yet meeting in person, she depends on virtual tours and has identi- fied a number of families willing to serve in an ambassador-type role.
“There are several family members of cur- rent and past residents who are willing to speak with new families about their experience here,” she said. “They are able to give their perspective on how things have been going for their loved ones.”
Senior
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visit is not possible. Tamilio said Rockridge staff will often work with families to coordinate a vid- eoconference or even a phone call to help them feel connected during the pandemic.
“There are many times when our staff are the eyes and ears for the families of our residents, so we work very hard to stay in contact with them,” she told BusinessWest.
Using videoconferencing tools is one more way to be reas-
suring and transparent with families and staff, Moran added. “It’s important for families to know about the place where their mom and dad are living.”
Cardillo talked about a recent Zoom confer- ence conducted like a town-hall meeting that included 80 resident family members, as well as Armbrook department heads. The purpose was to let everyone know what’s been done so far to keep residents healthy and engaged, and their plans going forward.
“Many family members had no idea about everything we’d gone through to keep their loved ones safe,” she said. “They want to do this type of meeting again.”
Meeting with potential new residents and their families is an important part of any senior-
EMILY TAMILIO
“We’ve redoubled our protocols and to make sure all our staff is up to date on proper infection control, hand washing, and strict sanitization procedures.”
take part in modified programs and activities.” As late spring arrived and the weather
improved, residents in most communities were able to go outside more often and socialize with others. Cardillo said positive changes began to happen the minute residents were able to enjoy some fresh air. “Whether it was having a con- versation or taking a walk or simply looking at the birds, we saw their depression and anxiety lessen once they could spend time outside.”
The warmer weather also enabled the facili- ties to resume family visits. Moran said the Atrium has a designated area for outdoor visits where families can schedule time with their loved ones either after breakfast or after lunch.
“We can only allow two family members
at a time, and they have to wear masks,” she explained. “Unfortunately, they can’t hug or kiss
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