Update 6.17.2020
June 17, 2020
Plymouth Place™ Friends and Family,
Much like our update last week, the past seven days have brought a mixture of ups and downs. We continue to celebrate recoveries – residents who are able to return to their apartments from our Dedicated Isolation Unit, and team members who can rejoin their friends and colleagues on campus. To date, the vast majority of team members affected have fully recovered.
Unfortunately, through regular testing of Health Care Center personnel, we identified a few new active cases among residents and team members. Tragically, we also lost a beloved resident to this virus in recent days. We collectively mourn this loss and extend our deepest condolences to their family and loved ones.
As we continue to relentlessly pursue this virus, and take prudent measures to prevent further exposure, we’ve begun to take initial, gradual steps to reopen some services and programs. This reopening strategy will occur in phases, beginning with independent living, and will align with guidance and recommendations from the CDC, IDPH and other relevant experts.
We recently shared detailed information with residents and families on what Phase One of this strategy looks like, including its impact on dining services, wellness and fitness opportunities, small group activities, our Campus Care Clinic, and other resident services.
Perhaps most importantly, we outlined an updated visitation policy for independent living residents. While visits in apartments remain strictly prohibited, we’ve identified designated areas on campus where families can meet, albeit with masks and appropriate social distancing. Additionally, starting this week, independent living residents can visit family off campus, but must agree to self-quarantine in their apartments upon return until two consecutive negative COVID tests are achieved.
As always, any decision to ease restrictions will be continuously monitored and adjusted to best protect those who live and work here. We’ll also share additional information on Phase Two of the strategy as it becomes available.
Finally, if you haven’t seen the recent Plymouth Place – Community Update that discusses the upcoming launch of our transformative Leadership Strategy, I highly encourage everyone to take a few minutes to watch. We also enjoyed a modified version of our Annual Meeting earlier this month, which offers a look back at many of our 2019 accomplishments, and exciting opportunities on the horizon.
As we head into Father’s Day weekend, our team is busy preparing our outdoor barbeque and entertainment. I hope each of you take a moment to spend time, either virtually or responsibly at a distance, with the amazing men in your life. If you need support arranging virtual communication before Sunday, please let us know and we’ll be glad to provide assistance.
Stay safe and stay well,
Jay Biere
President/CEO