Should I Still Consider a Retirement Residence During the Pandemic?
5 Questions for Older Adults Considering Moving into a Retirement Residence in Calgary.
Should you stay where you are or move in to a Retirement Community especially after hearing of the outbreaks in Long-term Care Homes in Canada?
1. Which Is Safer?
Most Retirement Communities are considered the safest place to be during a pandemic. Why?
They follow the strictest COVID-19 response protocols to ensure their residents and staff are kept healthy. Gradually and carefully easing restrictions in collaboration with Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health.
For example, at United Active Living anyone entering the community is screened, with daily symptom checks for residents and employees. Close monitoring to Alberta Health's direction is implemented swiftly.
Older adults who live at home might not have the same support and exposure-mitigation needed to go out to be tested, or pick up groceries.
2. Which Is Healthier? (Emotionally & Mentally)
Social distancing takes it toll on us emotionally and mentally, especially when we can't see our loved ones.
In a Retirement Residence you never need to feel alone. Online programs, innovative ways to connect and a friend next door are all part of the joy of living in an older adult community.
Communities like Garrison Green make a concerted effort to help residents feel connected.
A resident at United Active Living even started an initiative called the Grandparent Project to not only stay connected with family online, but even deepen those relationships. United helped residents get set up online to participate.
Being part of a community is one the best gifts you can have during a crisis.
3. Which Is Most Practical?
Groceries, picking up medication, essential appointments... each of those are points of concern during a pandemic.
Older adults who live at home and have family nearby to help them often feel the strain of 'being a burden' and tend to 'sneak out' despite their daughter's firm warning not to!
Others aren't as fortunate and have to make those trips alone, bearing the weight of anxiety and the tedious task of wiping everything down with sanitizer.
At most Retirement Communities, many of those tasks are done for you if you wish and during a pandemic, this is yet another gift!
Peace of mind knowing you don't have to risk unnecessary exposure.
Should you need medical assistance, healthcare staff are right there to assist you.
4. Which Is More Nutritious (and Delicious)?
Getting good nutrition is essential to keeping one's immune system strong.
During a pandemic, older adults who live at home can find it challenging to get the supplies they need. In some cases, the level of nutrition and a balanced diet can slip. Not only that, meals are often eaten alone.
At Garrison Green delicious, gourmet meals are provided for residents.
Residents can have meals together with appropriate social distancing at tables as restrictions allow.
5. Which Is More Enjoyable?
Entertainment, socializing and lifelong learning are one of the biggest draws to independent living.
Exciting programs are being started up again as restrictions lift and residences like Garrison Green provide world-class entertainment.
The Fitness program is back, so is the Theatre and other creative programs. Instead of keeping them closed longer than necessary, Garrison Green is working harder by having smaller numbers of participants, and running the programs more frequently to give everyone a safe and enjoyable experience.
You may not be able to go out like you used to during the pandemic, but that doesn't mean the fun needs to stop!
It's a great time to explore a Retirement Residence!
Take time to explore the communities around you. Most offer virtual tours until physical tours are permitted.
We'd love you to explore United Active Living's Garrison Green Assisted Living Community too.
Here are some quotes from our residents during COVID-19:
"we are being well taken care of"
I’m very reassured by what United is doing. We are getting plenty of communication, so we know what is going on, and we are getting a heads-up on future planning. It gives everyone a lot of comfort that we are being well taken care of.
Hear from United's Residents
Wise Words During COVID-19
Our residents interests and passions have always helped us create our sought-after community atmosphere, programming and services.
Hear from United's Residents
Wise Words During COVID-19
Our residents interests and passions have always helped us create our sought-after community atmosphere, programming and services.
"I’m thankful that I’m here"
I’m thankful that I’m here. If I was in my own home, I wouldn’t be going anywhere. I would be quite concerned being on my own, but I don’t feel that here.
"applauded for going above and beyond"
The employees are to be applauded for going above and beyond to help to keep a positive environment. Today, there are more programs opening up, more exercise classes and more programs in the theatre.
United Active Living Garrison Green
3028 Don Ethell Boulevard SW
Calgary, AB T3E 0C9
United Active Living
Garrison Green
3028 Don Ethell Boulevard SW
Calgary, AB T3E 0C9
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