As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has now officially spread in the U.S. to all 50 states, medical professionals and government agencies continue to work together to limit exposure and risk. At Ingleside, we too are closely monitoring the virus and its effects in order to provide the best care and support possible for our residents and staff.
What we know about COVID-19
The virus is a respiratory disease that was first detected in China. It is now a national emergency in the U.S and was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO).
To date, the illness has ranged from very mild, including some with no reported symptoms, to severe. The virus spreads easily from person-to-person and currently there is no vaccine or medication to treat it. This is why behavioral changes are so important to lessen the spread.
What we also know is that older adults can be at a higher risk, as well as people with serious chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.
Current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
If you develop a fever and symptoms and think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, call your medical professional. The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
If you do experience these symptoms and believe you’ve been exposed, call your doctor to see if you should be tested. Stay at home and limit visitors. Many who do develop the illness will only have mild symptoms and can isolate and recover in their own homes.
Steps to minimize or slow exposure
Social distancing is now recommended for everyone. Beyond canceling or closing large gatherings, limiting travel and telecommuting, remaining a distance of at least 6 feet may greatly slow down exposure.
A simple yet effective action is to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you’ve been out in public or have coughed or sneezed. If water is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home including door knobs, light switches, countertops, phones, keyboards and sinks.
Prepare to shelter in place
When well, stock up on supplies including extra necessary prescriptions in case you become unable to leave home. Also, using mail-order services keeps you from going out. If you do become sick, from this virus or one of the many respiratory illnesses you may be exposed to, make sure you have tissues and over-the-counter medicines to relieve fever or other symptoms.
Having enough groceries and other household items on hand is important if you become ill. But there’s no reason to hoard. Shop for how much and how long you estimate supplies will need to last, in case you need to stay at home.
Stay connected while keeping your distance
Even though we’ll be separated from many by practicing social distancing and avoiding crowds, we can still stay connected. In fact, now more than ever we need to reach out to our family and friends. It may just need to take a different form.
Consider all the options available to you and your family, including Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and of course, the telephone. Try scheduling regular times to check-in. These are all easy to download and learn the basics. If you do need help, ask a family member or friend and you’ll soon be using social media like a pro.
Communities are already prepared to keep residents safe
For those who are or have a loved one living in a residential community, the good news is that there are already plans and policies to follow.
At Ingleside at King Farm, we have taken the following steps to minimize the risk of COVID-19 to our community, residents and staff and have implemented our pandemic plan and these well-established procedures:
- We are only allowing visitors for “end of life” situations or if they are essential for resident care. Non-essential vendors or contractors are not permitted.
- We have temporarily closed our community spaces, including dining areas but are providing meals directly to the residents.
- We have had to cease programs, religious services and transportation services to keep in alignment with social distancing.
- We discourage residents from leaving the campus except when medically necessary. Upon return, everyone is screened for possible virus contact and will have their temperature taken.
We will be re-evaluating all of these actions on a regular basis.
Ingleside at King Farm
We understand how difficult these times are for everyone. While the need to close our community to visitors is the recommended best practice for safety, we also know the importance of social interaction, especially now. We encourage our families and residents to stay in touch through phone, email, or any of the other platforms available.
We want to assure you that we are monitoring the situation carefully for our residents, their families and our staff. Check back often for the latest information and steps we are taking to keep everyone as safe as possible.
Call (240) 455-4582 if you have any questions about our community and the response plans that Ingleside has put in place.
In lieu of onsite events, we are holding online presentations, register today and learn more about Ingleside at King Farm.