Lawrence Presbyterian Manor
SEPTEMBER 2020
Lawrence Presbyterian Manor scores perfect on focused infection control surveys Christie Patrick, executive director
State of the community By Christie Patrick, executive director
I’m sure it comes as no surprise that the worldwide spread of COVID-19 has turned each of our lives here at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor completely upside down. As a community, we have faced numerous challenges over the past several months and have continued to adapt to our new, ever-changing world, but what we have been able to accomplish in such a short period of time has been truly remarkable. Staff members have continually thought outside the box to find creative ways to implement changes—whether they be different processes, activities or communication styles—that will have a positive impact on our residents. Their dedication to the role they play within the STATE – continued on page 2
Lawrence Presbyterian Manor earned zero-deficiencies on focused infection control surveys conducted July 1 in the health care center and July 16 in assisted living. The health care survey was conducted on behalf of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and the assisted living survey was conducted for the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS). Zero deficiencies means Lawrence Presbyterian Manor met all the standards for infection control in the community’s health care and assisted living neighborhoods. CMS announced in March that all SURVEY - continued on page 2
Lawrence Presbyterian Manor | A PMMA COMMUNITY
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community and to the residents they serve, has pushed them to go above and beyond. And, as a result, it’s obvious that their work at Presbyterian Manor is more than just a job—it’s a calling. To help bridge the gap between residents and their families, staff have facilitated new ways to connect both virtually and otherwise. For birthdays and other occasions that would have normally been spent with family, we have found
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nursing homes would receive a focused infection control survey by July 31, 2020, delaying annual surveys in an effort to ensure nursing homes were prepared to respond to the threat of disease caused by the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The Kansas Legislature passed a measure instructing KDADS to conduct similar surveys of all adult care homes and home plus agencies licensed through the state. Assisted living falls under the adult care homes license in Kansas. Senior living communities are surveyed annually by their
special ways to celebrate on site— whether it’s by arranging a party, baking cupcakes or signing group cards.
And, when the time does come, we know that it will be a very exciting, fun and emotional experience for everyone involved.
And, while the bond between our residents and staff has always been there, the separation from family members and volunteers has made that bond stronger.
Until then, I would just like to add that the resilience of our residents and the patience and support of their families has meant everything to us.
As we look toward eventually reopening, we know that there will be numerous challenges and are committed to moving forward as slowly and as safely as possible to ensure the long-term well-being of the entire community.
It has definitely been a difficult past several months for all of us, but please know that we’re working hard to make the very best of the situation and believe we will come out of this stronger and better than ever before. ◆
licensing agency for compliance of regulations established by KDADS and CMS. These regulations are designed to ensure a standard of care is met. By meeting these standards, senior living communities are able to renew their licenses and continue to provide care.
etiquette, cleaning, screening of employees and residents, effective transmission-based precautions, proper use/discarding of personal protective equipment and signage at entrances and resident rooms. It also examines the facility’s policies and emergency preparedness related to a pandemic or outbreak.
Focused infection control surveys hone in on a nursing facility’s adherence to Centers for Disease Control (CDC), KDADS and CMS guidance for infection control practices to prevent disease at the community. Communities are assessed on staff and resident education on hand hygiene and coughing/sneezing
“Our employees go above and beyond every day in meeting the needs of our residents while adhering to strict infection control practices,” said Christie Patrick, executive director. “These survey results affirm our employees’ commitment to providing quality senior care and services based on Christian values.” ◆
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LAWRENCE Presbyterian Manor 785-841-4262 ◆ Fax: 785-841-0923 1429 Kasold Dr. Lawrence, KS 66049-3425 LawrencePresbyterianManor.org
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Community Matters
is published monthly for residents and friends of Lawrence Presbyterian Manor by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
To submit or suggest articles: cjones@PMMA.org. Christie Patrick, executive director Curtis Jones, marketing director
OUR MISSION: To provide quality senior services guided by Christian values.
COMMUNITY MATTERS | September 2020
Walk to End Alzheimer’s has different path for 2020 This year’s annual fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, isn’t just taking place on one course. It’s happening everywhere—on every track, trail or sidewalk. Held annually in more than 600 communities, the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research won’t take place as a large in-person gathering, but that doesn’t mean you can’t lace up your walking shoes for a good cause. On event day, October 17, you’re invited to watch the local Walk Opening and Promise Garden Ceremony online, in real time, by visiting alzwalklawrence.org and following instructions for the live stream. Then everyone will walk in their own neighborhoods. The day’s events will conclude with a drive-thru, view-only Promise Garden tour at Rock Chalk Park from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
There is no fee to register for the Walk. All participants are encouraged to raise funds that will advance the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association by enabling critical care and support services and advancing research toward methods of prevention, treatment and, ultimately, a cure. “Alzheimer’s does not stop in a COVID environment. Just because COVID has shut down our ability to meet and gather, Alzheimer’s is still a battle we need to continue to fight. I would go so far as to say that the Alzheimer’s Association needs our support more than ever. With so many resources being shut down, people are needing help with support and care more than ever,” said Curtis Jones, sales and marketing director. To learn more, visit alzwalklawrence.org or speak with Curtis Jones at cmjones@pmma. org or 785-841-4262. ◆
Lawrence Presbyterian Manor | A PMMA COMMUNITY
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LAWRENCE Presbyterian Manor
1429 Kasold Dr. Lawrence, KS 66049-3425 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Our Mission: to provide quality senior services guided by Christian values Like us on Facebook to stay updated on news and events.
COVID-19 updates continue
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, you can count on regular communication from your PMMA community and PMMA leadership. PMMA’s President and CEO Bruce Shogren’s latest letter to residents and families are posted to your community website, LawrencePresbyterianManor.org/covid-19. ◆
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COMMUNITY MATTERS | September 2020