July 24, 2020
Dear Family Members and Friends,
We are aware that the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has provided guidance for a new designation of an Essential Caregiver in nursing homes and assisted living.
An Essential Caregiver is an individual who was previously actively engaged with the resident or is committed to providing companionship and/or assistance with activities of daily living. The Essential Caregiver would be allowed to visit the facility under certain guidelines and restrictions.
We recognize the critical role family members and other outside caregivers, such as friends, volunteers, private personal caregivers, often have in the care and support of our residents. One of the most difficult things about COVID-19 for our residents has been the prolonged separation from families and loved ones. With the virus still very much a threat in our community, we must take careful steps in any plans to re-open our settings to visitors.
Realizing both the potential benefits and risks of allowing additional essential caregivers into the building, we will carefully consider this guidance as well as other criteria, such as the current status of COVID-19 in our setting and local community and the overall health and safety of all who live and work here.
We ask for your patience over the next few days as we review this guidance and determine our next steps in terms of how it aligns with our infection control practices and diligent commitment we have to combat this virus as we balance the safety, health, and wellness for all who live and work here.
We know the desire of our residents and their loved ones to be connected in a more meaningful way and also recognize the concerns that many of our residents and families regarding our ability to prevent and contain this virus in light of more people having access to our building(s).
Please know we are carefully considering our options, evaluating our policies and protocols, and will be sharing more information with you as soon as we have completed that process for each of our locations. In the meantime, please reach out us if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Nathan Johnson, CEO | 218.998.1518
Sara Watkins, Administrator, Care Center | 218.998.1516
Ann Boutwell, Housing Director, Pioneer Cottages | 218.998.9677
Stephanie Lunde, Housing Director, Pioneer Pointe | 218.739.7772
