It is welcome news that a number of jurisdictions are gradually easing pandemic restrictions as the communities around our homes become safer. Thanks to the success of our vaccination program and the support of family members, essential caregivers and team members, the most recent wave of COVID-19 is on the decline.
We look forward to seeing restrictions ease even further in the coming weeks and an eventual return to safe, flexible and broadened access to visitation.
While we continue to keep our guard up to reduce the threat COVID-19 poses to our homes, our care teams have been taking additional steps to support the well-being of residents and limit the challenges that result from following public health safety measures.
Here are just a few ways of how our care teams are prioritizing social supports for resident quality of life this month:
- Activity team members at Extendicare Cedars Villa in Alberta have been working with residents through letter writing campaigns. It has been well received as handwritten letters with messages of love and excitement have brought smiles to many faces.
- At Extendicare Hillcrest Place in Manitoba, team members are hosting one-on-one beauty parlours, including manicure afternoons, to help residents feel their best.
- At Extendicare Brampton in Ontario, Black History Month celebrations included resident Edmond inspiring a new program – “Dance Party Fridays” – where residents and team members chose their favorite song, representing their own culture and personality, and everyone joins in to dance.
- Several homes celebrated Lunar New Year early this month, and at Extendicare Bayview, Rouge Valley, and Scarborough, this included making Chinese Paper Lanterns, traditional dances, and the sharing of lai see (good luck money shared in red envelopes). Activity team members brought the Year of the Tiger to life for residents.
Looking ahead, we will continue to work in partnership with local health authorities, and look forward to welcoming families and friends to join us in restoring the full vibrancy of our communities, in support of those we serve.
