Expert Contributor Written by Lindsey Poeth, CSA® Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline
How Senior Communities Are Keeping Up with the Changing Times Many senior living communities are undergoing a complete transformation to accommodate the changing tastes and needs of the Baby Boomer generation and to stay current. Gone are the institutionalized facilities of many decades ago, replaced by spacious suites and common spaces, engaging activities and social programming to address many varied interest areas, and even technology centers for staying connected to friends and family. An added and critical challenge for senior communities this year has been to ensure residents are safe during the COVID19 pandemic. These communities are working hard to make sure their residents are being cared for safely while also ensuring they continue to enjoy their retirement years. Assisted Living and Personal Care communities in Pennsylvania have revolutionized the way they care for their residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure the safety of their residents and staff (by following all CDC guidelines and recommendations) while still allowing residents to have a high quality of life and the ability to engage with their friends and family. Numerous communities are now allowing visits by family and friends, and most are offering in-person and/or virtual tours for seniors looking to transition to a new home. It is also comforting to know that many communities have been COVID-free since the beginning of the pandemic. Families searching to move their loved one into a community will be pleased to know that safety precautions are being taken very seriously. When families tour a senior living community, they are still required to wear PPE or personal protective equipment. If you choose to visit a loved one, all guests and visitors are required to socially distance while wearing face masks. Some communities are even allowing guests to visit the resident apartments. This allows everyone to stay safe while helping improve the social and emotional wellness of residents and families who can see their loved ones.
Choosing the correct senior living community for yourself or loved one can be challenging given the sheer number of options in the immediate area. Professionals are available to help explain the options that would be best suited for yourself or your loved one based on your unique needs. It is especially important to work with someone who knows how the communities are actively adjusting their safety protocols and resident engagement based on the most up-to-date CDC information and state regulations. M
Understanding Senior Living Options Can Be Overwhelming and Confusing A Free, Personalized Senior Housing Placement Service For: • • • • • • • •
Retirement Communities Independent Living Assisted Living / Personal Care Memory Care Respite Services Residential Care Homes Hospice Care Skilled Nursing Homes
www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com 484-947-4266
Lindsey Poeth, CSA
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® December 2020
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