Hello Friends of King-Bruwaert House,
I would like to provide you an update from our community regarding our procedures and plans to keep our residents safe. Fortunately, we continue to have no reported cases of COVID-19. In addition to current restriction, we have also temporarily suspended therapies-physical, occupational, and speech— except in the case of emergency. Additionally, consultants (rounding specialists, podiatrists, etc.) will either work remotely or come into the community, again, only on an emergency basis—and after having been carefully screened. Also, we have enhanced our screening of employees and are taking temperatures two-times daily, rather than just once.
Our staff continues their amazing performance of providing high-quality care during these turbulent times. Disinfection of common areas, shared resident items, and high-touch areas continues regularly. Also, we recognize that communication between residents and their families and friends is vital to their well-being, and we have scheduled Skype and FaceTime calls so they can continue their visits virtually. Our staff is also keeping open lines of communication with residents’ families to let them know how they are doing and how we are assisting them.
One small example of how our staff are going above and beyond is shown through efforts to provide regular salon services to our residents since our salon had to close due to restrictions. Staff have stepped up to visit residents who are sheltered in their rooms to style hair. This, and many other examples we see on a daily basis, shows the mindset of care and determination that our employees have taken. I couldn’t be prouder of this team!
King-Bruwaert House has also planned for additional restrictions that may be recommended or enacted by government agencies. We have created contingency plans to continue a high-level of care for our residents if current restrictions last for an indefinite amount of time, or if a larger shelter-in-place is in order. One continued area of concern is the lack of distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and COVID-19 testing. We are working with our vendors, and new sources, to continue the supply needed. I, along with other CEOs of local senior communities, have written to Governor Pritzker asking for help in regard to these items.
I hope you and your loved ones are well, and I will continue to provide regular updates to keep you informed of how our residents and staff are doing. If you would like to share some encouraging words, stories, artwork, or pictures with our residents, please visit our Facebook page and use the hashtag #MakeKBSeniorsSmile.
Sincerely,
Terri Bowen
CEO
