As we look around, the leaves are changing, and fall is upon us. Birmingham Green’s mission, vision, and rich tradition continue to be an anchor for 93-plus years. Today, our values remain strong, even as we continue to encounter unprecedented challenges from the global outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which overlaps with the flu season. We continue to be proactive, responsive, and flexible while being candid and transparent about how Birmingham Green is taking precautions and creating meaningful experiences for residents based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and working closely with local, state, and federal public health agencies.
Our annual flu campaign has been launched to meet this years’ challenge through a partnership with CVS Omnicare, making it easy for all residents and team members to get their flu shots. Part of our flu campaign involves reinforced training for team members on hand washing techniques, cleaning protocols, and transmission precautions. Also, we now have a separate isolation wing for residents in our health care center separated via a plastic wall with a separate entrance/exit. Since March 2020, Birmingham Green has procured more than 1,367 boxes of surgical masks, 656 cases of protective gowns, 8,569 N95 masks, 1,933 cases of gloves, 7,265 face shields, and 500 goggles as well as hand sanitizer for team members to use, as needed, while providing services to residents. Our procurement team members monitor any anticipated supply shortages in order to meet our needs and optimize if necessary.
An attitude of gratitude brings great things and during the holidays it is a great time to practice gratitude and enjoy the simple moments in life. Research (The Journal of Positive Psychology and Indiana University) has shown that thankfulness during the holiday creates energy and enthusiasm, which is good for our well-being. When planning holiday gatherings and travel, the current guidance from the CDC and the Virginia Department of Health is to assess current COVID-19 levels locally and at your holiday destinations and use that information to plan your activities wisely. You can find information at the following websites:
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/considerations-for-events-gatherings.html
- https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/?s=gathering
Birmingham Green believes in a multi-faceted approach to wellness; We realize that the pursuit of wellness must be ongoing and supported across a resident’s entire experience. One of the best ways facilitated resident engagement has been demonstrated is through one-on-one visits, where the BG staff listen, offer support, and discuss individual pursuits and goals residents have. We cannot underestimate the power of in-person connections. Advancements in technology and the embrace of technology driven by COVID-19 has opened new possibilities for bringing wellness to our campus. We have purchased 55 tablets and have been able to share wellness programming campus-wide through virtual platforms. Our focus, in addition to ensuring the care and treatment of our residents, includes recognizing the life enrichment needs, communal living setting, and the need to create distancing environments that support all residents.
Please contact your facility Administrator for updates on our Safe Path Forward Three-Step Plan.
Best,
Denise Chadwick Wright
Chief Executive Officer