Aberdeen Village
Residents stay connected with technology
MAY 2020
The entire world is navigating uncharted territory as the COVID-19 virus moves across the globe. Residents and staff at communities such as Aberdeen Village have had to endure drastic changes in operations, procedures and contact with the outside world in order to protect those most vulnerable to the virus. For residents, that has been an especially big challenge that has made it impossible for family members to visit the communities.
Cards and letters help warm residents’ spirits during crisis
“People need to feel connected to other people to feel well,” social worker Liz Miller said. “Emotional health plays into physical health.”
Staff and residents of Aberdeen Village want to give a special “thank you” to everyone who has sent cards, letters and kind thoughts to our community. We received a stack of postcards Tuesday from a thoughtful person named Kayla. It was so touching that our staff teared up while reading her messages. She sent so many cards that every resident in the healthcare area received one. Thank you, Kayla, for your kindness. A note card from someone named Danny included a personal message for all of our residents and is now displayed so everyone can read it. We’ve had phone calls to inquire if we have any needs, such as personal shopping or visits. Girl Scout troops asked to make a craft for our residents. A mom with a toddler offered to walk around the exterior of our building so residents could see a 2-year-old child smiling back at them. We have been amazed by all the offers from people who want to help our residents feel they are loved and not forgotten. Thank you so much to everyone. SPIRITS - continued on page 2
Liz, along with fellow social worker Janelle Erickson; Chaplain Diane Gunsolley; Life Enrichment Director Sandy Barnes; Life Enrichment Assistants David Nelson, Ellen Petelin, Rachael Esau and Rouba Sawaf; and Sales and Marketing Director Stephanie Oehlert, have been coordinating with residents and their families to use eight iPads equipped with video conference software to help keep residents connected to the outside world. “We have the ability to video chat no matter what level of care you’re in,” Liz said. “We’ve TECH - continued on page 2
Aberdeen Village | A PMMA COMMUNITY
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