I would like to extend a special thank you to the associates who take care of our most vulnerable during these trying times.
Workers at nursing homes and assisted living centers are on the front lines of the coronavirus outbreak, caring for your loved ones every day.
My mother has been a resident at Brookdale for more than six years. She is 98! Recently, health issues required her to move from independent living to an assisted living apartment. This happened just when communities were going on lockdown. The Brookdale staff moved heaven and earth to get Mom settled in her new home.
Many residents in assisted living are dependent on the associates at these communities. They need someone to manage their medication. They need help taking a bath, tending to personal needs and getting dressed. Meals are delivered to their apartments. Some residents cook, so they are offered assistance ordering groceries online and getting them delivered.
The biggest challenge for these workers is keeping residents occupied. The elderly are susceptible depression, so staff plans activities that can keep them busy while maintaining social distancing guidelines. Last week the staff paraded around the campus. Activity carts are circulated twice a day. These contain things like crossword puzzles, crafts, word searches and Bibles. Palms were distributed on Sunday. Virtual church services are broadcast over the in-house TV.
Thank you Don, Barbara, Sherrin, Shante, Lane, Brenda and the rest of the Brookdale staff for taking such good care of my dear mother!
Barbara Gambrell
Williamsburg
