ASK AMY KOCH
A monthly column from the Executive Director of the Charles Ford Retirement Communities of New Harmony
How is the Charles Ford Retirement Community of New Harmony Addressing Challenges Faced Due to COVID-19?
According to the American Healthcare Association, the COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented situation disproportionately impacting our older adult community. Not only are the COVID-19 medical complications and mortality risk greater for older adults, but the crisis adds another layer of behavioral health challenges.
Even in pre-pandemic normal times, seniors face risk factors such as social isolation, financial challenges, illness, grief and loss, all associated with greater rates of anxiety and depression. These mental health challenges increase the risk for poor outcomes and even higher mortality from various underlying medical conditions.
We asked Amy Koch, Executive Director of the Charles Ford Retirement Communities to help us understand what they’re doing to address these challenges.
“Well, lately, the whole world seems a bit upside down, doesn’t it? Our Residents who are coping best are the ones who choose a positive outlook on life in general. They have a calm centeredness amidst the storm. One of them gave us some beautiful advice. She reminded us to count our blessings. In honor of that wisdom, we are calling ourselves higher and to be intentional in our gratitude. Each day, we pause to deliberately name something we are genuinely thankful for here and now. As it turns out, there’s a lot that is still right in the world.
“We acknowledge that the greatest impact and most difficult adjustment for Residents, since the quarantine began in March, has been the practice of social and physical distancing, from their families, other residents, and the community. Without this positive attitude, this practice over time could create a sense of social isolation. Our staff works hard at all times to show love and compassion to keep Residents from feeling disconnected.
“During the quarantine, we’ve added Life Enrichment activities that focus on the individual, the most popular being the iPads provided for every resident. Now, they can communicate in real time with others within and outside the Community. Social media has helped Residents attend church and stay connected with family and friends. Video conferencing allows them to see loved ones face to face and talk to people who aren’t wearing masks. Virtual reality lets them travel to new and exciting places. Tele-health gives access to their physicians. Plus, we’ve added to the Pet Therapy program. It’s amazing the smiles that result when an animal visits or looks in through the window.
“I am, particularly, thankful for a versatile, compassionate staff that exhibits perseverance with a sense of humor. At a time when senior living staff turnover is soaring, our staff remains consistent.
“We are delighted that new regulatory guidance provides an opportunity for us to help Residents begin having outside visitors, under certain circumstances. The requirements are fairly detailed, but we’re figuring out how we might be able to make it work. Once we’ve dialed in our plan, we’ll communicate the process. That gives all of us something to look forward to!“
