This pandemic has been very hard on the elderly population.

CozyRetire— Apple Village Assisted Living (Layton), Apple Tree Assisted Living (Kaysville), and Gardens Assisted Living (Ogden)—have been taking the threat of exposure very seriously. We are constantly watching for updates and regulations provided by the CDC and local health departments.

The following are ongoing actions we are taking to keep us COVID-19 free, but also to allow SAFE visiting of our residents by their families:

• We have a newly constructed “Family Visit Room” to keep residents and their loved ones connected. It is a dedicated room with a large window where both loved ones and residents can visit in a comfortable and quiet environment.
• A bank teller style intercom is provided for easy conversation. We sanitize the room between visits.
• We also assist with video chat (e.g. FaceTime, Google Duo, and Zoom) and provide the iPad as needed to the resident’s room.
• We only allow staff and caregivers into the other areas of the community. Each person is screened carefully using the Utah State Health Department “health passport” tool.
• We limit home health and hospice companies to a single caregiver (dedicated to our community only) to prevent cross-contamination that could be brought in from other communities on their routes.
• We require masks to be worn at all times in the public areas.
• We sanitize any bags or water bottles brought into the building.
• Our trained staff has taken a “Hero’s Pledge” to help them be mindful of their responsibilities in keeping our residents safe.
• We wear masks and gloves when entering a resident’s room and change gloves between rooms.
• We set up gathering areas to accommodate social distancing for activities and meals.
• We monitor residents daily by taking their temperatures and watching for symptoms or changes in their health.
• We have a dedicated drop off area where items can be left for the residents. We take precautions by sanitizing nonfood items. It is so important for residents to stay safe yet still be social and cared for. We strive to take the fear out of community living during these uncertain times.

“Thrive in Safety” at one of our communities—newly adapted for the new normal.