Holiday Message 2020
A message to our communities…
To say this year was unpredictable is an understatement and yet, together with the help of our partners and our communities, we have kept our focus on the needs and safety of our residents, staff, families and communities.
We continue to follow Ministry directives and Public Health guidance that aims to protect everyone in our Homes. We remain vigilant with all enhanced measures, which are helping us to prevent and reduce the spread of the virus during this Wave 2.
While we wish we could celebrate the holidays and enjoy traditions in the usual fashion, we are making sure this time of year still feels special, supporting meaningful connections through virtual visits, engaging distanced events for our residents and more. Our Care Package policy enables the safe delivery of gifts and goodies. Our Family Caregiver Program supports a range of visit options and a safe, uninterrupted presence in our Homes.
As we continue to fight this pandemic, we appreciate being able to place such trust and confidence in our frontline care teams who continue to step up to balance safe care with quality of life, all while supporting families and one another. peopleCare’s recent Values Award Week acknowledged every team member for exemplifying the unique Value of Courage in leading with us through this trying time.
Although 2020 was challenging, we are proud to have stayed true to our commitment as an innovative leader in senior living. Most recently, we partnered in a first-of-its-kind trial of drone delivery of meds to LTC homes (Eyes on the Skies). We were among the first LTC operators to Pilot Point-of-Care Rapid Antigen Tests. In partnership with the Centres for Learning Research and Innovation in LTC and the Canadian Foundation for Healthcare Improvement, we are evaluating new family caregiver resources for the health system, and studying the impact of isolation on LTC residents during COVID. We also continue to work with Canada’s National Ballet School to deliver and improve engaging virtual activities for residents (Sharing the Joy of Creative Movement).
Even though uncertainty of COVID is not yet behind us, as we approach a new year that we anticipate will bring welcome developments such as new testing options and vaccines to our Homes, we have never felt more hope that brighter days are ahead.
On behalf of peopleCare, thank you to our communities and our partners for your support as we navigated this unforgettable year and worked to keep our residents, staff, families and partners safe, engaged and informed. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season, and all the best in 2021.
Sincerely,
Brent Gingerich, Chairman and CEO & Megan Allen-Lamb, President
