March 12, 2020
Dear Friends,
The Connecticut Department of Public Health has closed nursing homes to visitors, hospitals have restricted visitation, and assisted living communities may be impacted at some point, as well. The DPH and CDC have been providing regular updates. We are always working to help prevent the spread of viruses in our community by heeding these agencies’ advice, as well as training (and re-training) our associates on evidenced-based infection control protocols, and encouraging sick associates or visitors to stay at home.
The Saybrook at Haddam has no cases of COVID-19 and we are working proactively to keep it that way. Please note some of the modifications we are implementing in response to the Coronavirus. We have suspended hosting public events that would unnecessarily bring additional people in from outside our community. At this time, we have made the decision, in order to be consistent with CDC and local health departments’ guidance, to largely limit visitors from entering our community and also request that visits occur inside resident apartments. We are initiating a strict and documented screening process to help make sure anyone who needs to enter our community, including visitors, vendors, and associates is not exhibiting signs of illness nor has had contact with this virus through travel or exposure to those who are sick. We will also be confirming that all who enter the community have a temperature of less than 100.4 degrees. If you plan on coming to the community, please expect to be screened. We appreciate your cooperation.
While the spread of Coronavirus is a major global concern, infection control is nothing new for us here at The Saybrook at Haddam. We fully understand the risk that cold and flu season poses to our residents and associates every year and we have a keen focus on minimizing any negative impacts. The Saybrook at Haddam’s outstanding housekeeping staff always does an excellent job sanitizing and is working tirelessly to keep surfaces and frequently touched objects clean and disinfected. We continue to remind residents about best practices regarding infection control including hand washing, not touching your face, covering coughs and sneezes, and remaining in their apartments if they aren’t feeling well.
At this time, we are postponing out–trips that expose our residents to large public gatherings. Restaurants, plays, concerts, shopping trips, and church services are suspended. We will continue to enjoy scenic drives to picturesque and historic areas.
Residents who utilize our shopping excursions may need support from families to bridge the gap in picking up personal items. Peapod by Stop and Shop (800-5-PEAPOD), River Valley Provisions (860-554-5599), and Nutmeg Pharmacy (860-345-3607) are more than happy to assist with deliveries. Amazon.com is also a great option, as we receive daily deliveries from UPS and FEDEX.
Regarding religious activities, we will continue our regular, in-house services and will also offer a daily televised mass service for those who are interested.
The situation is changing hourly and we are doing our best to effectively communicate our status in addition to minimizing inconveniences for you and your loved ones. Safety is our number one priority and we appreciate your support. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please call us directly.
Thank You and Be Well,
The Saybrook at Haddam Team
