Greetings,
The Board of Trustees announced some very big news this week. Effective September 8, Deutsches Altenheim will be joining Legacy Lifecare, a nonprofit management resources collaborative whose mission is to help organizations like ours operate in today’s complex environment while retaining our mission, identity and values. For the past few years, the healthcare environment has grown increasingly more competitive and complex. After careful consideration, the Board is confident they have found the right partner in Legacy Lifecare. Read more about the announcement here.
COVID-19
In accordance with Department of Public Health guidelines, a random sample of 30 percent of our staff were tested for COVID-19 this week. I’m pleased to report that across the campus, no staff or residents are positive for COVID-19.
GERMAN CENTRE
Families have been taking advantage of the expanded visitation schedule, which began last week. For the residents, the visits are the highlight of their week, and we’re thrilled to be able to accommodate as many visits as possible.
The Activities Department has been challenged to offer expanded programming in this highly-restrictive pandemic environment. They are bringing back long-loved programs, especially BINGO, to create a semblance of “normal” for our residents. Since residents are not permitted to congregate in groups, programs are held in the hallway outside residents’ bedrooms. I think the Activities staff just may need some roller skates to keep up!
EDELWEISS VILLAGE
We were honored to receive a visit from members of the Parkway Rotary Club, who donated three raised garden planters for our residents with a green thumb. They also donated herb plants, which we hope the culinary staff will enjoy using in our meals! The planters are on wheels, which means we can enjoy them year-round.
In honor of Beethoven’s 250th birthday, the German Consulate of Boston sponsored a string trio performance of Beethoven’s work. Consul General Nicole Menzenbach was present to introduce herself and the performers to those who attended. The weather was beautiful, the music enchanting, and residents thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
SENIOR PLACE
Attendance at Senior Place is slowly increasing now that we’ve gotten a routine started. Our maximum daily capacity for participants is 13, due to space restrictions. Thus far, participants are enjoying the return to structured time with others.
A FINAL THOUGHT
Labor Day is celebrated to honor and recognize the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States. This Labor Day will be unlike any other that we’ve experienced in our lifetimes. Parades are postponed and large gatherings are not realistic options this year. Yet, this Labor Day is perhaps especially significant. This year, let’s remember and celebrate the countless essential workers who have protected our citizens and kept our economy moving throughout the course of the pandemic. I hope you find ways to enjoy your Labor Day weekend in a safe and healthy manner.
Stay safe and be well,
Michael B. Lincoln
Chief Executive Officer
Download the UPDATE: September 4 Update