As we navigate through these unprecedented times, we continue to find the bright side during COVID-19 at Gardant-managed senior living, assisted living and memory care communities.
Heritage Woods of Ottawa
Early on in the COVID pandemic, Ottawa, Illinois residents coordinated a drive-by parade for residents at Heritage Woods of Ottawa. Social media helped fuel the event, and they had a long line of cars and families lined up to participate.
Vehicles were decorated with colorful balloons and homemade signs. Many family members, lots of grandchildren and even some complete strangers turned up to put a smile on the face of residents.
Residents were smiling and waving from their windows, their faces lighting up any time they recognized one of their loved ones. Staff members were crying at the sight of such a touching tribute from the community. The atmosphere was palpable, and the parade drove through the grounds multiple times to give everyone a chance to see each vehicle.
Ottawa residents define what a caring community should be – people who care about one another and go out of their way to develop unique alternatives to reach out and help someone, even when social distancing applies.
Their story at Heritage Woods of Ottawa is just one of many.
Hellenic Senior Living of Indianapolis
As the pandemic continued through the months, Gardant-managed communities continued to accept move-ins. Venette McMakin’s mom was one of those move-ins.
Venette recently had this to say about Hellenic Senior Living of Indianapolis:
My mom has so enjoyed living here! While it was not ideal moving during the beginning of COVID restrictions in April 2020, the staff and management made her move as seamless as possible, kept my mom company since meeting others was limited and always had time for her. Now that the residents are able to enjoy activities, I see my mom enjoying nearly every event and have heard so many fun stories about new friends and thankful praises of kind, helpful staff. So glad this was the place she chose to live!
Our top priority in light of COVID-19 has been and continues to be to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our residents and employees. Any decisions made regarding infection prevention and control measures are made after careful review of risk in the Community, cases in the greater community as well as federal, state and local directives. Decisions are made in collaboration with our local and state health departments and with guidance set forth by public health authorities. As always, we will keep our promise to you to keep the wellbeing of our residents as our priority.
At Gardant-managed communities, we are always finding the bright side.