A lot of things have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, perhaps more so for the residents in assisted living facilities than for anyone else. With Christmas just around the corner, the Patriot reached out to senior communities in the area to see what sorts of challenges they were facing, and how the community could continue to support them in this difficult time. 

New Challenges

With a population more at risk from the virus than any other, assisted living facilities have had to be diligent in monitoring guidelines set by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), and in following Governor Walz’s executive orders. Nicole Gilder, housing director at Keller Lake Commons in Big Lake, said one of the most difficult challenges has been simply keeping up with guidance as it rapidly changes. 

“It takes a lot of time to track these changes, and to then communicate them to both our staff and residents. This process has been frustrating at times, but we’re confident that it’s helped to keep our community as safe as possible,” said Gilder. “It’s ironic, but a pandemic that has distanced us all socially has also brought us closer together as a team.”

Jodi Speicher from the Shepherd of Grace Senior Community also commented on the strength of her team under the pressure from the evolving situation. 

“They’ve had great grace while dealing with the constant change of restrictions,” she said.

Finding Solutions

Both Shepherd of Grace and Keller Lake Commons have had to restrict visits from residents’ families in order to stay in line with guidance from the MDH. 

“Everyone is feeling lonely, and wanting a hug,” commented Carol Klein, housing manager at Shepherd of Grace. They’ve needed to cancel most of their games and other entertainment, and limit gatherings between residents. Some socially-distant events are still being offered, like door-to-door bingo and trivia games. 

Residents and staff have also been asked to wear protective gear, such as masks, and to wash their hands frequently. Staff are asked to wear eye protection as well.

Keller Lake reported making similar changes, as well as checking the temperature and oxygen levels of their residents twice daily.

“We’re continuing to grow our assisted living program at Keller Lake Commons,” said Gilder. “In hindsight, opening the program in January 2020 may have not been the best timing. However, it’s been a great success and we look forward to growing both our census and employee team into 2021!”

Community Support

Shepherd of Grace and Keller Lake both said that the support from the community has been amazing so far. Individuals, churches, and businesses from the community have donated things such as goodie bags and meals for the residents. Donations are always welcome. Keller Lake Commons especially wanted to thank Lake Cafe, Gess What’s Cookin’, and Casey’s Pizza for their donations.

Speicher urged the public to keep socially distancing themselves, wearing their masks, washing their hands, and staying at home. She says she knows it is a lot to ask, with Christmas coming up and families not being able to meet for the holiday. The goal is to lower the case count for the county, so the residents have the opportunity to see their loved ones again.