TO: Residents and Staff FROM: David Swartley, President/CEO DATE: May 15, 2020 RE: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Update #13
At the time of this writing, there have been no residents, and no additional employees tested positive for COVID-19.
On Friday afternoon, May 8, Donna Gerofsky, RN, and Donovan Carper, RN, DON, had a lengthy conference call with officials from the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH). The conversation was a collaborative call; both parties were learning from each other. DOH decided that they would like to do some trial COVID-19 testing in our skilled nursing area. They selected Moravian Manor Communities as the site and delivered 300 free test kits this past Monday. On Monday, we tested 57 skilled care residents. On Tuesday, we tested 77 employees, and on Wednesday we tested an additional 55 employees. All test results were negative. Our team could not have been more pleased!
Lancaster County has decided to move forward to a “yellow zone,” which means that some businesses may begin to reopen. This decision is certainly not without controversy. The Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce is recommending that companies be cautious and seek legal counsel before opening. These changes from the County do not impact any guidance we are following at either of our campuses. The positive aspect of this move has been very lively discussions about the impact of the broader community on our care areas. Lancaster County has noticeably “ramped up” support for skilled nursing facilities. I am hopeful that this may bring some relief in our daily scavenging for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Without a doubt, this has been our most significant challenge. We are also processing some guidance that was issued this week from DOH regarding mandatory, weekly testing. While overall, we are supportive of this action, many questions remain in terms of the added cost and administrative burden. However, all these changes are indicative of state and local leaders, realizing where the risk of the Coronavirus is most significant.
Thank you for your participation in our weekly ZOOM calls. Yesterday, we had our largest group yet. I find it a valuable way to connect. Indeed, not as effective as face to face meetings, but is a useful alternative.
Thank you again for your support of our team members. Over 200 donors contributed over $28,000, which was all given to our team! They are most appreciative.
Thank you as well for the spirit you bring to Moravian Manor Communities during these trying times. It is indeed rewarding to see all everyone work through this together.
In closing, I share a letter from Steph and Rich Barbour that they sent to me this week. I believe it tells the “rest of the story” of our community.
Dear Fellow Residents of Moravian Manor Communities:
I write on behalf of Steph and I and all members of our community who are immunocompromised and may have underlying conditions that make us highly vulnerable to the ravages of COVID-19.
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Thanks for your empathy and compassion to other fellow residents. A community in the truest sense is a group of individuals who, regardless of opinions and preferences, are sensitive and respectful of the needs of all.
While we, residents of Moravian Manor Communities, are all unique and have a wide variety of experiences, it is evident to Steph and me that we have one quality in common, concern for others!
Our thanks to Moravian Manor Communities leadership and staff for the awesome job they are doing keeping us safe and informed, has already been expressed, and cannot be expressed enough!
Steph and I think it time for us to express our sincere appreciation to our fellow residents. Although we are vulnerable, we are not frightened. And the reason for that is our caring community.
Pursuing their inner musician, Ukulele club members Dick, Betty, Bob and Ed highlight the enjoyment they get from “powering up our brain cells and having fun laughing and learning a new skill.” The club routinely has met weekly since forming (although suspended temporarily for social distancing), and performs at special community events.
Resident Isabelle Weidman started the Ukulele Club at Moravian Manor Communities. She was inspired when her great-granddaughter was taking lessons and one day was playing and singing and said, “Here, grandma try this! And she was so surprised and thrilled when I played.” Isabelle kept the surprise that she had been practicing and formed a new club here at Moravian Manor Communities.
Step into their class virtually to see first-hand this amazing community life group.
Please take a moment to watch this important update from David Swartley, President and CEO of Moravian Manor Communities. You can keep up with all of our COVID-19 updates by clicking here.
Life’s Road Bumps Shouldn’t Slow Down Your Future!
Although life has had some unexpected bumps in the road lately, you can still plan for your future. Perhaps, during this unusual time staying home, you’ve seen the advantages of moving to a Life Plan Community to support your desired retirement lifestyle.
In these uncertain times, residents here are happy, supported 24/7, and have peace-of-mind with on-campus take-out meals, grocery deliveries, wellness checks, virtual community life and access to health care. Every day we hear from residents, “I don’t know what would have done if this had happened before. I’m so glad I’m here.”
Residents here can’t wait to return to the vibrant community life on our campuses once this passes. Until you can visit our campus personally, connect with us virtually. Check out our website to preview the beautiful homes, amenities, and campus life from the comfort of your own home. Start planning now to pursue more from life here in Lititz.
Pursue More from Life Here: One Vibrant Community. Two Thriving Campuses.
Between our Founders Campus and Warwick Woodlands Campus, both mere steps from downtown Lititz, you can pursue a home that’s uniquely yours from the area’s widest array of homes. Apartments. Carriage Homes. Cottages. And Townhomes.
Check out our extended photo gallery of places to go, things to do, people to meet and miles to explore…as well as VIEW the galleries of all the residence styles on the Founders Campus and Warwick Woodlands campus.
We’re Prepared to Effectively Handle the Unexpected
For more than 40 years, residents have trusted our community to support extraordinary lifestyles and deliver outstanding care. By having protocols in place every day of the year, we are prepared to handle any emerging issue or health situations that arise, and stand ready to assist residents during any time of need. Our full array of Life Plan options also enables you to age in place with access to quality comprehensive services.
We also have implemented new“Services to Enhance Your Life” to provide added peace-of-mind and security, which include carry out and meal delivery, grocery shopping and delivery service, virtual community life, wellness checks, courtesy transportation, concierge services and more. Read more about these added services here.
What’s Your Best Option for Retirement Living?
Curious what life would have been like at a Life Plan Community during this unprecedented time of staying home? Discover the lifestyle residents at Moravian Manor Communities are enjoying!
Virtual “Pursue More” Event May 28, 2020, 10 a.m. Via ZOOM
What do you desire for your future? There are so many options for retirement living these days, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. Let us help you with the research process with this resource:
FREE printed or digital E-Book “Reinventing Your Lifestyle: A Formula for Success.”
To RSVP for the virtual event or request your free copy of Formula for Success, call us at 717-626-0214 or complete the contact form today.
Moravian Manor Communities celebrates National Skilled Nursing Care Week this week (May 10-16) and recognizes our team members and residents in our Health Center. Thanks to our dedicated employees, we’ve provided care for residents for more than 40 years…we honor and celebrate you!
Additionally, we honor our Circle of Friends, who support our benevolent fund…for without you, not all residents in assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing would be capable of affording their ongoing care.
Most importantly, we recognize and celebrate our residents, for their insights, purpose and wisdom, offering us a unique perspective based on their life experiences, reminding us to be present, celebrate the small moments, and value connections.
Together, our staff, residents and their family members make up our unique and amazing community. We are so grateful for each and every one of you! #NSNCW
