Maple Vista adopts a ‘no visitors’ policy
IMLAY CITY — Given that senior citizens are considered to be at higher risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus, staff and management at Sanctuary at Maple Vista are taking every measure to ensure the safety and wellness of its residents.
Crystal Campagne, community manager at the Trinity Senior Living Community at 600 Maple Vista Street, says the facility has imposed all mandated safety protocol, including not allowing visits from family members, friends and non-essential health care personnel.
She notes that exceptions will be made only in compassionate care situations, such as ‘end-of-life’ care, which is restricted to the resident’s room only.
Sanctuary at Maple Vista resident Ruth Kumpf makes the most of current conditions by taking her dog, Katie, for a walk.
Affects of isolation
While Maple Vista’s nearly 70 current residents (ages 50-99) are generally adjusting to the new restrictions, Campagne acknowledges the isolation is beginning to take a toll on some.
“It’s definitely hard on them,” she says. “They miss being able to see their families and being with their friends.
“Some of them are sad or disappointed because they’re not able to follow their usual everyday routines, but we are doing what we can to alleviate any sadness or loneliness.”
She notes that modern technology avails them to opportunities to see and speak to their loved ones via Facetime and other social communication vehicles.
Campagne says in the absence of usual social contact among residents, they are encouraged to do crafts, puzzles or other activities in their rooms.
She adds that residents are welcome to leave their apartments to take walks, engage in exercise or shop at the facility’s in-house store.
“Residents are encouraged to walk the property,” says Campagne. “The sidewalks are all covered and we ask that they walk six feet apart.”
She says residents are permitted to sit outside on benches and visit as long as they maintain the required six-foot distances.
“They can also come to public areas to use the wi-fi or computer, to get coffee or tea to go, and to use the laundry areas.”
Meanwhile, Maple Vista staff continues to deliver mail and three daily meals to each resident, along with delivering items that have been dropped off by loved ones.
“We will meet those dropping off items in the parking lot so they do not need to enter the community,” says Campagne.
Cards, notes sought
Campagne asks community members of all ages to consider sending along cheerful and supportive cards and letters to Maple Vista residents.
“Letters, photos, crayon drawings, etc. can be addressed to ‘a resident’ and they will be given to those who can use some cheering up,” she says.
Challenges for staff
Campagne says the coronavirus is also impacting the lives of staff members, who are now subject to daily screening procedures that include taking staff members’ temperatures and to assure that they are not exhibiting any symptoms associated with the virus.
“It’s a challenge for everybody,” she says. “But our priority is the health and safety of our residents.
“To be honest, we’d rather have them here with us during this time, — knowing that we
are helping keep them safe.”
Tom Wearing started at the Tri-City Times in 1989, covering the Village of Capac as a beat reporter. He later served stints as assistant editor and editor. Today, he covers Imlay City and Almont as a staff writer. He enjoys music and plays drums and sings with various musical groups in the Detroit Metropolitan area.
