Dear family of Walker Methodist,

We are again heading into a holiday weekend, and again this one will feel different for all of us, but especially for our residents.

Certainly, one of the most difficult parts of this global pandemic continues to be the restrictions that were placed on visits between residents, families, and friends in our settings. We are doing all that we can to engage residents in meaningful activities and to connect them with their loved ones, while reducing the risk of COVID-19.

I am so glad to see that so many people have taken advantage of the outdoor visits that communities have implemented. But I know that there are limited open spots available at any given time. So please remember that there are still several ways to connect with residents. Please ask your community for help if you need assistance with any of these options.

A few options being used today include:

• Telephone
• Video chat
• Zoom/Skype
• Social media
• Window visits
• Outdoor visits
• Email
• Text

Thank you for helping to keep everyone safe and healthy in our communities by abiding by the visitation regulations. We know that this has been a long road, and we are all so appreciative of your patience and understanding.

Status Update

Several communities have undergone point prevalent (mass) testing in the past weeks. We’ve strategically targeted communities that have had cases of COVID-19 in the community or that have had team members who tested positive for the coronavirus. If your community has undergone testing or will be doing so, the leadership team of that community has already reached out or will reach out to you.

We have tested more than 1000 people, and of that there are still no residents with COVID-19! There are only five team members who tested positive, and in each instance they were wearing full PPE during resident cares and interactions, so risks are considered low.

We pray that this will continue to be the case, and our team members are working hard to ensure that residents continue to remain protected.

Together we will overcome.

Scott Riddle
President and CEO, Walker Methodist