It had been a solid three months of zero cases of COVID-19 in our retirement communities when we got the dreaded news; we had a single case at our Seasons Owen Sound. Knowing we were prepared for such a situation, our team quickly sprang into action. The good news is, the resident quickly recovered and there was no additional transmission to other residents or staff.
The outbreak was rescinded after 14 days and Dr. Ian Arra, the Medical Officer of Health said, “This success speaks to the optimal collaboration and communication between the public health team and the facility’s management team in the management of this outbreak. It also speaks to the robust measures promptly implemented and maintained by Seasons Retirement Home in Owen Sound, and to the expertise and vigilance of their staff.”
We are thankful for the Seasons Owen Sound team members who demonstrated true dedication to our residents and for doing everything necessary to effectively minimize the spread.
As politicians and experts debate whether or not we are in or approaching a second wave, we look at the rising case counts in Ontario and Alberta and we know our work to protect our staff and residents is far from over. We have had precautionary protocols in place since March, as directed by the provincial governments, our sector regulators, and local public health units. We have adapted to a new normal of sorts with daily health screening, continuous masking, enhanced cleaning, robust resident cohorting, and physical distancing among other infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures.
Thanks to the vigilance of all Seasons team members and the cooperation of our residents and visitors, we have ensured that 98% of our total resident population has remained COVID-19 free*. This is significant. We are committed to maintaining the highest IPAC standards while ensuring our residents are engaged and connected to the people and things they care about most.
During the height of the pandemic, we received countless cards and notes of encouragement and support. One family member of a resident at Seasons Royal Oak Village sent us a letter that best sums up what we know to be true about our dedicated team members, “I am writing to tell you about the excellent work your staff has done to ensure the safety and care of the people living there during this pandemic. We are so happy that my mother chose to be at Seasons. From the outset of the pandemic, the General Manager and her staff took fierce charge of the situation. They are constantly running … but they are always cheerful and pleasant. They are to be commended for their tireless efforts.”
There is no greater priority than the health and safety of those who live and work with us. Thank you to our residents and our families for the trust they place in us. We take this responsibility very seriously. Thank you, to our Seasons team members. These past months have been challenging but you rose to the occasion. We know that together, we are ready for whatever the future holds.
*As of September 24, 2020.