Minnesota communities only:
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 communities, we must take careful steps in any plans to re-open our settings to visitors
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. 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.
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 communities and the overall health and safety of 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). With that being said, as of Tuesday, July 28th, 2020, we will begin to allow essential caregivers into our communities, as long as all criteria to be an essential caregiver are met.
To be considered as an Essential Caregiver, a person must meet the following criteria:
A. The essential caregiver must complete an application form that will ask you to provide in writing how you are able to preserve and promote quality of life for the resident and how you will alleviate caregiving tasks for staff and providers.
B. The essential caregiver must have been a visitor of the residents prior to COVID-19 at a mini- mum of 3 times per week. If a resident moved in during the COVID-19 pandemic, an essential caregiver determination will be made by the Executive Director, Director of Health Services, & Director of Health & Wellness.
If you or a family member would like to learn more about this exciting new option, please feel free to reach out to your communities Executive Director for further information.