The LifeSpire of Virginia team continues to be vigilant to control and prevent the spread of the novel Coronavirus—or COVID-19. As the virus becomes more widespread in the U.S. and around the world, LifeSpire of Virginia is taking appropriate precautionary measures by following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recommendations. Out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of our residents, their families and our team members, LifeSpire of Virginia communities will implement temporary visitation limitations to our health care, assisted living and memory support care areas, effective March 11, 2020.
For Individuals Outside of LifeSpire of Virginia Communities: A visit is permitted when a visitor is essential for a resident’s wellbeing and care including family members, close friends or other individuals whose visit is essential for the resident’s wellbeing. All visitors to these areas will be actively screened using a series of questions and a body temperature check, as recommended by the CDC and CMS. Additionally, a visitor may be required to use personal protective equipment, such as a facemask and gloves. Before visiting, contact the community to be connected with a team member who can discuss your request.
For LifeSpire of Virginia Residents: We recognize the need for independent living residents to enter and visit these care areas. A plan is in place to allow for this. The screening steps noted above will also apply to independent living residents who have a need to enter these care areas. Times of visitation may differ at each community and these guidelines are posted at the entrance to the health care, assisted living and memory support areas.
For LifeSpire of Virginia Team Members: We are monitoring our team members for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and for potential exposure. Team members have been educated regarding the process of self-reporting which includes travel history and signs/symptoms of respiratory illness.
During a visit, all visitors must limit physical contact with residents and others as well as limit movement within these care areas. LifeSpire of Virginia is also reviewing visit criteria for volunteers, vendors, emergency medical personnel, transportation providers and other practitioners, and is taking necessary actions to help prevent any potential exposure and transmission of the virus.
Our residents have the right to enter and exit LifeSpire of Virginia communities as they wish, and this right will continue to be supported. However, we discourage all residents from attending nonessential events outside of their LifeSpire of Virginia community due to the continued spread of the virus. We, of course, recognize the need for residents to continue to attend outside medical appointments.
We have concern for our families and encourage everyone to take steps to protect themselves.
Recommendations to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19:
- Avoid contact with people who are sick, crowds, nonessential travel, high-touch surfaces in public places.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Practice proper hand hygiene.
- Clean and disinfect your home.
- If you develop symptoms of COVID-19—fever, cough and shortness of breath—stay home, call your healthcare provider and let them know about your symptoms.
The LifeSpire of Virginia team is focused on prevention and we are working to build barriers against the spread. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Our residents and families trust us, and we take that trust very seriously. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to a member of management. As additional information develops, we will revise these protocols as warranted.