Submitted by, Jennifer Armenia, Marketing Director
Residents and staff at The Saybrook at Haddam are preparing to receive the Covid-19 vaccine in the next couple of weeks in clinics provided by CVS Health/Omnicare. The health and well-being of our community is our highest priority. Since the beginning of the pandemic, The Saybrook at Haddam implemented universal infection control practices under the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, local and state Departments of Public Health, and our own, private consultant.
Our infection control practices include:
- Daily health screening for both staff and residents, including temperature readings
- Proper mask wearing by staff and all independent/assisted living residents (residents don’t have to wear masks when alone in their apartments)
- Frequent sanitizing of high-touch objects (door handles, counters, elevator buttons, etc.)
- Thorough quarantine and testing protocol for new residents and current residents returning from outside the community.
While we hope the much anticipated Covid-19 vaccine is “the beginning of the end” to the pandemic, we will continue to follow current safety measures even after vaccination because our resident population is more vulnerable to the virus than other members of the public. Only once it is determined to be absolutely safe, we will be able to relax precautions.
Given these protocols and the prioritization of assisted living residents with regard to vaccination, communities such as The Saybrook at Haddam offer very safe and enriching alternatives to living at home alone. Multiple studies have shown prolonged loneliness and isolation is as damaging to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness and social isolation can increase your risk for obesity, heart disease, stroke, falls, depression, cognitive decline, and more.
Being part of a vibrant community where social interaction, chef-prepared meals, support services, fitness classes, activities and entertainment are available can improve quality of life not only for residents, but also for their families. Knowing a parent is in a safe environment where their needs are taken care of by competent, caring people, relieves a lot of stress and anxiety.
Over this last year we all have face many challenges. You don’t have to go it alone – there are many safe support services available. Please call us or a healthcare professional for more information. As we enter a new year with renewed hope, we wish you peace, health, and happiness.
