Like most of you, Garlands of Barrington members are closely following CDC guidelines and referring to local, state and federal protocols as we hunker down and shelter in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
As difficult as this situation is for all of us, over the course of the last few weeks we have found that, while we remain focused on social distancing, Garlands members, their families and our team members are actually discovering new ways of coming together.
Convenient and Safe Grocery Procurement and Dining
Although regular Happy Hours and dinner dates with neighbors are, for now, happy memories, The Garlands four restaurant kitchens remain open to provide convenient and delicious meals three times a day. Members can order meals off the menu, and Garlands wait staff delivers them hot and fresh to their door. No need to worry about venturing out for grocery shopping, not to mention no need for meal prep (unless, of course, they want to make their own!). In addition, coffee hour and special treats (afternoon ice cream anyone?) are delivered daily, and birthday parties—complete with a cupcake and candle—are celebrated door-side!
Ongoing Events
While the fitness and aquatic center is temporarily closed, Garlands members continue yoga, balance and Pilates virtual exercise classes with beloved Garlands trainers (we haven’t figured out virtual swimming yet!). Group programming includes on-line lifelong learning classes, musical performances and museum tours, plus members are rediscovering time to pursue passions like painting, scrapbooking, needlework and other in-home projects. Walks throughout our manicured 32-acres remain a favorite past-time—the daffodils are just about to burst!
Leveraging Technology to Stay in Touch
Members remain connected to family via virtual visits. From Facetime, to Facebook, to Zoom—you name the technology, and we can help families stay in touch! Emails and texts are flying through our reliable wifi. Facebook posts, blogs and our in-house television station communicate regular updates. And our “snail mail” (after it is properly scanned with our ultraviolet sanitizing light wand!) is filled with well wishes from family, friends and area school children.
Help is a Phone Call Away
While families continue to provide their virtual love and support, our staff (all of whom are checked daily for temperatures and symptoms) is here to take care of most every need. From regular wellness checks and delivering medications, to assistance with placing on-line orders, selecting books and puzzles from our library or ordering incidentals from our in-house convenience store, we’re here to serve.
As a result, in spite of these unprecedented times, our members tell us that they are experiencing less stress and take comfort in the fact that they live in a community that offers support, if and when they need it.
I know I speak for the entire Garlands team, when I say that it’s an honor and privilege to rise to the challenge and share this experience with our residents, their families and each other.
We Take Social Distancing Seriously . . .
. . . but we value relationships! If you, like others, are finding that challenging times like these are an ideal opportunity to take stock, think about the future and reconsider one’s approach to living well, we’re here for you too. Join us for a virtual Garlands webinar or virtual tour or call 847-304-1996 to just chat with a Residency Counselor. We’re all in this together!
Sincerely,
Dawn L. Kempf
Vice President and Chief Operating and Compliance Officer
