Skilled Nursing Resident and Family COVID-19 Information Update

It is always important to for Heritage Ministries to put the safety of resident and staff first and foremost. With that being said, we at Heritage want to make sure that families and residents have up to date information, to assist them with making important decisions regarding the health of their loved ones. As of 5/24/22 the CDC, FDA, and NYS Department of Health (DOH) have updated their definition of “up-to-date” with COVID-19 vaccines. The guidance now recommends a second booster shot for immunocompromised staff and residents and for anyone age 50 and up. Data continues to show that being fully vaccinated and up to date with all vaccine guidance including the second booster is essential for protecting highly vulnerable residents and staff. It really increases your level of protection against severe disease, hospitalization and death with the new variants. We all have seen the deadly consequences of COVID-19 not only in the communities but also how it has affected the nursing home residents and their families.

Heritage will continue to follow up to date guidelines related to infection control practices to keep all residents and staff safe, this includes the CDC, DOH, and CMS guidance.

Currently, because of the risk of unrecognized COVID-19 infections among residents, any resident that is not up to date with all recommended COVID-19 vaccines and are considered new admissions, readmission, (left the facility for >24 hours), or exposed to another resident or staff that is covid-19 positive will  be placed in designated area (admission, unknown zone) to be monitor closely for 10 days to prevent possible spread of virus. New admissions or readmissions that are NOT up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations need to quarantine for 10 full days and complete the testing listed above. Health care providers and families visiting will be required to wear full PPE. If, after the 10 day period the residents have experienced no signs or symptoms of COVID-19, they may be removed from TBP and/or transferred out of the designated area can happen after day 10.  The resident not up to date with all COVID-19 vaccine recommendations must complete transmission-based precautions (isolation) requirements for a minimum 10 full days. Day of first symptom or test positive test date is day 0.

Residents up to date with all COVID-19 vaccine recommendation will not be placed in isolation unless they test positive for COVID-19, but may be subjected to testing. Testing is not recommended for people who have had SARS-CoV-2 infection is the last 90 days, if they remain asymptomatic, including if they have had close contact or a higher-risk exposure. If the resident develops symptoms, at any time after admission, the need for TBP begins again with the date the symptoms started (now considered day 0) and TBP should extend to day 10 using this symptom onset date.

OUTBREAK TESTING – An outbreak is defined by a new COVID-19 infection in any healthcare personnel or resident residing in the nursing home, excluding new admissions admitted with COVID 19. A new COVID-19 infection triggers an outbreak investigation.  Rapid identification and isolation of new cases is critical in stopping further transmission. Residents with signs or symptoms of COVID-19, whether fully vaccinated or not, must be tested immediately. While test results are pending residents will be placed on transmission based precautions. Once test results are obtained, the facility will take the appropriate action based on the results. A RT-PCR should be completed at the time of a negative rapid test of symptomatic residents and sent to local lab for testing. Contact tracing- all residents with connections to the COVID 19 positive employee or resident will be identified.  The exposure period starts 2 days prior to the test date or onset of illness through the employees last day of work or when the resident was placed in quarantine.

REFUSAL OF TESTING – Residents may decline testing. Education on the importance of testing will be done. Any resident who has signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and refuses testing will be placed on transmission based precautions until criteria for discontinuing is met. During outbreak testing, an asymptomatic resident that is up to date with vaccines refuses testing will have increase monitoring/screening for 14 days, must maintain social distancing from other residents, wear a mask ( if tolerated), and practice effective hand hygiene until the procedures for outbreak testing is completed.

Thank you, for your continued assistance with keeping all of our residents and staff safe.

COVID-19 Delta Variant Update

Dear Friend of Heritage,

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect people of all ages. Recently, the nation has experienced an increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases, with the entrance of the new Delta COVID-19 variant. Heritage has always been committed to putting the safety and well-being of those who we both serve and employ, as our top priority. During these challenging times, our entire team is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of your loved one. I cannot begin to thank our staff for all they have done to help our residents and their loved ones. They continue to again and again rise to the occasion, offering help whenever, and wherever, it is needed. They have my undying gratitude and truly are the reason we are #HeritageStrong.

As our teams continue to protect each senior who calls a Heritage community home from this unprecedented illness, I want to personally thank you for your constant patience, support, and understanding over the eighteen months.  While we understand you may feel weary living in the constantly changing world of COVID-19 guidelines, we also know that this battle is not yet over. I also wanted to share with you the practices below that will remain in effect until further notice as we work together to keep those we love safe, healthy, and free from harm.

• All staff and visitors in Heritage independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation communities, nationwide, are required to wear face masks at all times. We continue to screen our staff daily and continue to follow all testing guidelines, as required.
• Visitation at all skilled nursing facilities and assisted living will continue to be held as allowed by current Department of Health and CDC guidelines.
• We encourage residents in all communities to wear a mask as they are able, regardless of vaccine status, in accordance with CDC recommendations.
• We encourage our residents, staff, and loved ones to consider receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Acknowledging that many have concerns and questions, Heritage encourages all residents, their families, and staff to educate themselves on the potential benefits and risks of receiving the vaccine in order to determine which option is right for them. On our website, heritage1886.org/coronavirus, you will find a variety of resources from the CDC to share with your loved ones as you make your decisions.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His protection for as we seek to keep each resident and staff member safe, and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,
Lisa Haglund
President and CEO
Heritage Ministries

Hugs Are Back!

Hugs are back! I am so very happy to finally be able to share some good news. Recent changes to CMS and state department of health guidance have loosened the restrictions on visitation.

While each state has slightly different changes, we can expect increased visitation with the opportunity to hug our loved ones. We have been fortunate to vaccinate 90% of our residents as well as almost 50% of our staff. Our continued focus on vaccination, visitation, and safety will hopefully move us all closer to normal.

For the first time in almost a year, I am hopeful that we will soon see this pandemic behind us. With all that said, I am asking each of you to not let your guard down. COVID is increasing in the community and we are not through this yet.

Please remember to wear your mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distance.

Jeremy Rutter
Chief Clinical Officer,
Heritage Ministries

COVID-19 Update

As we approach the one-year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Heritage COVID-19 task force would like to thank all of the residents and family members who have been so patient and understanding as we navigate through these challenging times.

We continue to take a very proactive approach in preventing and responding to COVID-19. For example, we screen all of our residents and employees every shift for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. We test all of our employees for COVID-19 twice a week at a minimum, with many being tested more often. We test all new residents in our communities three times in their first ten days . We clean and disinfect all of our surfaces every four hours, and utilize electro-static sprayers to ensure maximum disinfection. To date we have vaccinated over 800 residents and over 500 employees. I am hopeful that with this, as well as our advocacy efforts, we will begin to see a return to normal. I ask for your continued support and cooperation through these difficult times, and thank you for the honor of caring for your loved one.

Jeremy Rutter
Chief Clinical Officer,
Heritage Ministries

2020 Year End Letter

Dear Friends of Heritage,

As 2020 draws to a close, we wanted to reach out to you, our residents and families, and thank you for your understanding, support, and most of all, your prayers, during this challenging year. You and your loved ones deserve the very best from us during this difficult time, and our Heritage teams, from chaplaincy to activities and everyone in between, are committed to using love, imagination, innovation, and faith to find ways to encourage and provide hope in the midst of this pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many time-honored traditions and heart-warming gatherings to change drastically this season. As we face those challenges, our Heritage communities, nationwide, have been determined to make the Christmas holiday season extra special.

Our teams are working tirelessly each day to “Bring the Joy” as we create innovative ways for our residents to enjoy meaningful moments, and special memories. In November, we launched a free eCard program to allow family members, friends, and the community to send free cards to their loved ones electronically throughout the year. From our online shoebox Thanksgiving Day Parade, to socially distanced hallway sing-a-longs, community car parades, and recorded holiday performances from area groups televised in our communities, our “Bring the Joy” initiative has helped our residents, staff, and community members to still enjoy traditional activities during a difficult time.

We are working daily to keep our residents safe, loved, and well cared for. We continue to monitor staff daily, and enhanced personal protective equipment is being used as needed in all of our communities to limit transmission of the virus. With the news of an upcoming vaccine for COVID-19, we know you may have many questions. Heritage is working with CVS, Omnicare, and Walgreens to distribute the vaccine to any residents who wish to receive it. We understand that choosing to receive the vaccine is a personal choice, and recently provided all of our residents and families with information to help make that decision. In the upcoming days and weeks community staff will be contacting you and your loved ones to discuss the vaccine, timing and availability further.

Our COVID-19 response team continues to be committed to acting in the best interest of all Heritage residents and staff, monitoring and implementing the constantly changing guidelines and protocols of local, state, and federal authorities. We also continue to advocate with our elected officials for a more reasonable and compassionate approach to visitation. You can find more information on ways you can get involved by visiting our Advocacy page here.

We understand how difficult this pandemic has been for both you and your loved ones, and thank you again for your patience and understanding. We look to the new year with prayerful hope, and continue to seek God’s wisdom. We pray for His supernatural protection, as we work to keep each resident safe, and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living during these unprecedented times.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

Lisa Haglund
President and CEO

COVID-19 Vaccine Statement

Dear Friends of Heritage,

The COVID-19 pandemic has been one of our nation’s greatest challenges in modern history. For more than nine months, residents of Heritage and senior living communities nationwide, have lived apart from those they love and have been unable to visit each other face-to-face, or experience the warm embrace of a loving hug from a family member. Heritage employees have put their own health at risk daily and have worked tirelessly using love, imagination, innovation, and faith to find ways to encourage and provide hope in the midst of this pandemic while caring for our greatest generation, our seniors.

For months, we have asked you to join us in prayer for an end to the pandemic that has disrupted life in so many ways. As an organization, we are grateful the newly released COVID-19 vaccines are now placing the world’s attention and priority on our most affected populations, our seniors and front-line healthcare workers.

We are blessed beyond measure that our prayers have been heard, and that our seniors and healthcare heroes in our skilled nursing communities will be among the first to be given the option to receive the vaccine. While we remain respectful of the right to choose vaccination, for the first time in almost a year, our most vulnerable population will have an individual choice in how they will fight COVID-19, and we are so appreciative of our local, state, and federal agencies for recognizing this need.

Our communities have partnered with CVS, Omnicare, and Walgreens to distribute the vaccine to staff and residents who wish to receive it, and will be offering multiple clinics. We understand that some people may be concerned about getting vaccinated. The CDC has stated that while these vaccines are being developed as quickly as possible, routine processes and procedures remain in place to ensure the safety of any vaccine that is authorized or approved for use.

We understand that receiving the vaccine is a personal choice each person must decide upon. Acknowledging that many have concerns and questions, Heritage encourages all residents, their families, and staff to educate themselves on the potential benefits and risks of receiving the vaccine in order to determine which option is right for them. Click here find a variety of resources from the CDC to share with your loved ones as you make your decisions. We encourage you to reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions you may have. We will also continue to communicate with you and your loved ones as we receive any information on vaccination options and availability for our assisted living and independent living staff and residents.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His supernatural protection for those whom He has entrusted to our care, as we seek to keep each resident safe, and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,
Lisa Haglund
President and CEO

Visitation Update

A copy of this letter has been mailed to all of our designated family contacts.  

Dear Friends of Hearthstone,

As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic nationwide, the safety and health of our residents and staff continues to be of the utmost importance. Staff are monitored daily upon arrival for work and wear surgical masks and eye protection, such as face shields, to limit the transmission of COVID-19 from potential asymptomatic employees. Staff in our skilled nursing and rehabilitation and assisted living communities receive mandatory COVID-19 testing, as required by the state. We continue to regularly monitor residents for symptoms throughout the day.

We understand that our Hearthstone families are anxious to see their loved ones. Our staff has worked tirelessly to provide compassionate care and ensure that our residents remain safe, engaged, and loved, while working with families to provide window, Zoom, and Facetime visits during the mandated no visitation periods. While we are thankful for all our staff has done, we know that for many families, the longing to be face to face with their loved one has been one of the most difficult aspects for them during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are so excited to begin welcoming our families back “home” to Hearthstone.

Hearthstone Manor will begin allowing for limited visitation on September 1, 2020. Attached, you will find a fact sheet which outlines the requirements and conditions of the limited visitation we are allowed to begin offering as those criteria are met. Please review this prior to visiting. You will notice that there are many changes to what you may have been used to in the past. We understand this may seem extensive, but these mandated requirements are designed to allow our residents and families to (finally) connect, while still protecting everyone from potential COVID-19 exposure. All visits will need to be prescheduled. Included in these precautions, masks must be worn by visitors at all times, and hugging, kissing, and other physical contact is not allowed under the current visitation policy. To limit any potential exposure, you are also unable at this time to exchange any type of items including gifts or food. However, if you have a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, or other event, we want to help you celebrate. Please let us know, and we would be more than happy to provide cupcakes or other treats from Heritage to help make your visit extra special for everyone.

Please contact your community today to schedule your visit. There are a limited number of slots each day, and they may fill quickly. We appreciate your patience and understanding as our staff works to help each family reconnect with their loved ones.

We understand how difficult this separation is for you and your loved ones. Our compassionate staff continues to provide care, comfort, and love to each of our residents, and we thank you for all of the thoughts, prayers, and support you have offered them during this uncertain time.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His supernatural protection for those whom He has entrusted to our care, as we seek to keep each resident safe and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,
Lisa Haglund
President and CEO

——

Download our posted visitation policy below:

• Visitor Fact Sheet

COVID-19 Update

Dear Friends of Heritage,

As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic nationwide, the safety and health of our residents and staff continues to be of the utmost importance. It has now been over three months since our skilled nursing and assisted living facilities have been closed to visitors. Staff continue to be monitored daily upon arrival for work and wear surgical masks and eye protection, such as face shields, to limit the transmission of COVID-19 from potential asymptomatic employees. Staff in our skilled nursing and rehabilitation and assisted living communities are nowreceiving mandatory COVID-19testing, as required by the state. We continue to regularly monitor residents for symptoms throughout the day.

Our COVID-19 response team is committed to acting in the best interest of all residents and staff. This group continues to monitor and implement the ever-changing guidelines and protocols of the CDC, as well as local, state, and federal authorities, as phases of reopening begin to emerge. We understand that many of you have expressed concern regarding visitation and seeing your loved one. The current reopening phases in many areas where our communities are located allow for small group gatherings. However, skilled nursing and rehabilitation and assisted living communities are held to a different level of regulation. Our teams continue to provide for both the physical and emotional care of those we serve during these difficult times through various resident engagement activities, to help all residents stay active and engaged. Phone calls, video chats, and window visits continue to be arranged through the social work and activities departments. We are happy to assist in scheduling these visits; however, we do request they be limited to one per day so that we can assure all residents have equal opportunity.

At this time, the following guidelines have been implemented at all of our skilled nursing and assisted living communities:

• No group activities.
• No congregate dining.
• Residents who need assistance with eating can be assisted in the dining spaces with no more than two residents per table at least six feet apart.
• No visitors, with the exception of compassionate end of life. Please contact your community directly for information.
• Residents are required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated).
• Residents are allowed to go outside if they maintain social distancing and wear a mask (as tolerated).
• Residents are allowed to leave the facility for essential medical appointments, and must wear a mask.
• Residents are not allowed to leave the facility for non-essential reasons (visitation, beauty shop, dining, etc). Exceptions can be made for extenuating circumstances, to be approved by the Heritage COVID-19 team.
• No beautician services in facility.

At this time, the following guidelines have been implemented at all of our Assisted Living Communities:

• No group activities
• No congregate dining
• No visitors with the exception of compassionate EOL (this includes residents visiting other resident’s rooms)
• Residents required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated)
• Residents are allowed to go outside if they maintain social distancing and wear a mask (as tolerated)
• Residents are allowed to leave facility for essential medical appointments. Must wear a mask.
• Residents are strongly encouraged not to leave facility for non-essential reasons (visitation, beauty shop, dining, etc).
• Residents are required to quarantine if exposed to a suspected or confirmed case of COVID. Quarantine length will be determined by State requirements.
• No beautician services in facility.

At this time, following additional guidelines apply to Independent Living residents in Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Washington only:

• No group activities.
• No congregate dining.
• Residents required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated).
• Limit of one visitor per resident per day.
• Visitor must be masked and screened.
• Tours allowed, participants must be masked and screened.
• Moving help limited to two, must be masked and screened.
• Residents can go out of the facility as allowed by state reopening phases. Must wear a mask.
• Residents must self-monitor for symptoms. Report any symptoms to administrator.
• No beautician services in facility.

The following additional guidelines apply to Independent Living Residents in New York State only (*unless services are offered in a building that houses assisted living residents*).

• Residents are required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated).
• Limit of one visitor per resident per day.
• Visitor must be masked and screened.
• Tours allowed, participants must be masked and screened.
• Moving help limited to two, must be masked and screened.
• Residents can go out of the facility as allowed by state reopening phases. Must wear a mask.
• Residents must self-monitor for symptoms. Report any symptoms to the administrator.
• Beautician services are allowed in the facility.
• Limited to one resident in the beauty shop at a time.
• Both the resident and beautician must wear a mask.
• The entire beauty shop will be disinfected between residents.
• Group activities are allowed.
• All participants must maintain a six foot distance from each other and wear a mask as tolerated.
• Gatherings are limited to 25% of maximum room occupancy, or 25 people, (including residents, staff, and guests) whichever is less.
• Congregate dining is now allowed (diners must maintain a social distance of six feet)
• Limited to 25% of maximum room occupancy, or 25 people, (including residents, staff, and guests) whichever is less.

Additionally, in response to increased rates of COVID-19 transmission in certain states, and to protect New York’s successful containment of COVID-19, the state has joined with New Jersey and Connecticut in jointly issuing a travel advisory for any individual returning from travel to states that have a significant degree of community-wide spread of COVID-19. Based upon Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order 205, issued June 25, 2020, the following states meet the criteria for required 14-day quarantine. This order will apply to anyone interacting with any of our New York state communities.

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Arizona
• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Idaho
• Louisiana
• Mississippi
• Nevada
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah

As more details are made available to us by state and local governments regarding time frames for the reopening of visitation in our communities, we assure you, we will immediately reach out to you with any information. We understand how difficult this separation is for you and your loved ones. Our compassionate staff continues to provide care, comfort, and love to each of our residents, and we thank you for all of the thoughts, prayers, and support you have offered them during this uncertain time.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His supernatural protection for those whom He has entrusted to our care, as we seek to keep each resident safe and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,

Lisa Haglund
President and CEO

COVID-19 Update

Dear Friends of Heritage,

As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic nationwide, the safety and health of our residents and staff continues to be of the utmost importance. It has now been over three months since our skilled nursing and assisted living facilities have been closed to visitors. Staff continue to be monitored daily upon arrival for work and wear surgical masks and eye protection, such as face shields, to limit the transmission of COVID-19 from potential asymptomatic employees. Staff in our skilled nursing and rehabilitation and assisted living communities are nowreceiving mandatory COVID-19testing, as required by the state. We continue to regularly monitor residents for symptoms throughout the day.

Our COVID-19 response team is committed to acting in the best interest of all residents and staff. This group continues to monitor and implement the ever-changing guidelines and protocols of the CDC, as well as local, state, and federal authorities, as phases of reopening begin to emerge. We understand that many of you have expressed concern regarding visitation and seeing your loved one. The current reopening phases in many areas where our communities are located allow for small group gatherings. However, skilled nursing and rehabilitation and assisted living communities are held to a different level of regulation. Our teams continue to provide for both the physical and emotional care of those we serve during these difficult times through various resident engagement activities, to help all residents stay active and engaged. Phone calls, video chats, and window visits continue to be arranged through the social work and activities departments. We are happy to assist in scheduling these visits; however, we do request they be limited to one per day so that we can assure all residents have equal opportunity.

At this time, the following guidelines have been implemented at all of our skilled nursing and assisted living communities:

Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Communities:

• No group activities.
• No congregate dining.
• Residents who need assistance with eating can be assisted in dining spaces with no more than two residents per table, at least six feet apart.
• No visitors, with the exception of compassionate end of life. Please contact your community directly for information.
• Residents are required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated).
• Residents are allowed to go outside if they maintain social distancing and wear a mask (as tolerated).
• Residents are allowed to leave facility for essential medical appointments, and must wear a mask.
• Residents are not allowed to leave the facility for non-essential reasons (visitation, beauty shop, dining, etc). Exceptions can be made for extenuating circumstances, to be approved by the Heritage COVID-19 team.
• No beautician services in facility.

Assisted Living Communities:

• No group activities.
• No congregate dining.
• No visitors, with the exception of compassionate end of life. Please contact your community directly for information.
• Residents required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated).
• Residents are allowed to go outside if they maintain social distancing and wear a mask (as tolerated).
• Residents are allowed to leave the facility for essential medical appointments, and must wear a mask.
• Residents are strongly encouraged not to leave the facility for non-essential reasons (visitation, beauty shop, dining, etc).
• No beautician services in facility.

The following additional guidelines apply to independent living residents only:

• No group activities.
• No congregate dining.
• Residents are required to wear a mask while outside of their room (as tolerated).
• Limit of one visitor per resident per day.
• Visitor must be masked and screened.
• Tours allowed, participants must be masked and screened.
• Moving help limited to two, must be masked and screened.
• Residents can go out of the facility as allowed by state reopening phases. Must wear a mask.
• Residents must self-monitor for symptoms. Report any symptoms to administrator.
• No beautician services in facility.

As more details are made available to us by state and local governments regarding time frames for the reopening of visitation in our communities, we assure you, we will immediately reach out to you with any information. We understand how difficult this separation is for you and your loved ones. Our compassionate staff continue to provide care, comfort, and love to each of our residents, and we thank you for all of the thoughts, prayers, and support you have offered them during this uncertain time.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His supernatural protection for those whom He has entrusted to our care, as we seek to keep each resident safe and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,

Lisa Haglund
President and CEO

ELC Reopening and Update

Dear Friend of Hearthstone,

The Hearthstone Early Learning Center will be reopening on Monday, June 22. The safety of our students, families, and staff is of the utmost importance, and we will be following all local, state, and CDC guidelines when we open our doors this month. As we reopen, we will have reduced classroom sizes to begin (ten or less children in each) and will increase enrollment after four weeks of enhanced practices in place.

At this time, students are not required to be tested for COVID-19 before our re-opening. Health screenings will be mandatory for anyone entering the ELC building. We will work to make this as easy for our families as possible by meeting the parents at the front door and taking children directly to their classrooms. Any child who may become ill while at the ELC will be isolated in a designated area until they can be picked up.

While we are excited to welcome back all of our families and students, we understand that you may be concerned about what this opening will look and feel like. Things may look and feel different, but we look forward to providing the same caring and compassionate experience to our students. Below are the new procedures we will be following to ensure everyone’s safety.

• Teachers must wear masks and goggles or face shields at all times in the building. Children two years and older also need to wear masks, except when eating and napping, as tolerated. We do understand for some children for whom masks are not safe or medically appropriate. Please speak with Melissa Norman, ELC Director, to make accommodations.
• Teachers in the infant/toddler/and two’s area will wear smocks at all times. Smocks will be changed between children when holding for feeding and diaper changes.
• Classrooms will be assigned a floater and they will change outerwear if they move between classrooms.
• Shoes dedicated solely for the ELC or shoe covers to be worn in the building will be needed for both children and teachers.
• All meals and snacks will be catered to the ELC. Children who are not held for feeding (typically only infants) will eat six feet apart to ensure social distancing is maintained.

We look forward to seeing you all again, and encourage you to contact us with any questions.

Sincerely,
Lisa Haglund
President and CEO Heritage

Jeremy Rutter
Chief Clinical Officer
Hearthstone Executive Director

Letter to Residents, Families, and Community Members

Dear Friends of Heritage,

It has now been three months since our facilities have been closed to visitors. Staff are being monitored daily upon arrival for work and have been wearing surgical masks and eye protection to limit the transmission of COVID-19 from potential asymptomatic employees. In several states, our employees, as well as our residents, are being tested for COVID-19. Our New York state employees are now being tested once a week per state mandate.

Our COVID-19 task force continues to monitor and implement the ever-changing guidelines and protocols of the various agencies that have oversight of our facilities. While many states are currently in a phased reopening plan, our guidance comes from the CDC primarily, with other state and federal guidelines. For our nursing homes and assisted living communities, the guidance to reopen will come through the state Department of Health as directed by the CDC. For our independent living communities, we are following CDC guidance for retirement communities. This guidance differs from the state specific guidance that apply to general businesses. As such, what you are hearing in the news about reopening of services may not apply to you and your loved one in a certain level of care.

In accordance with these guidelines, we are still unable to allow for group activities, congregate dining, and visitation. Our teams continue to provide for both the physical and emotional care of those we serve. Phone calls, video chats, and window visits are being arranged through the social work and activities departments. We are happy to assist in scheduling these visits; however, we do request they be limited to one per day so that we can assure all residents have equal opportunity.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His supernatural protecting for those whom He has entrusted to our care, as we seek to keep them safe and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Rutter
Chief Clinical Officer
Heritage Ministries

Letter to Friends of Hearthstone

I reach out today to share many updates with you.

On May 11, 2020, I was confirmed to lead as permanent President and CEO for Heritage and its affiliates. I am honored and blessed to have been chosen to lead Heritage through this unprecedented time, and look forward to working with each member of our staff as we continue to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living to all those entrusted to our care.

I began my career with Northwest Bank, a ten billion dollar corporation, for over twenty years, prior to joining the Heritage organization, where I have most recently served as the Vice President of Marketing, Development, and Sales. I truly believe in giving back, and have been an active member of the community throughout the years, with involvement ranging from Chautauqua Leadership Network, PTA, St. Susan Center, Family Services, and the Bemus Point United Methodist Church. My husband, Jason, and I reside in Bemus Point, NY, along with our four children, Allison, Brennan, Madelynn, and Michael in Bemus Point. We are active members of the Bemus Point United Methodist Church.

Additionally, Jeremy Rutter, Heritage Vice President of Skilled Nursing Operations and Executive Director of Hearthstone Communities, a Heritage senior living community in Woodstock, IL, has been named Chief Clinical Officer of our organization. He previously served Heritage as the Administrator of Record at The Village in Gerry, NY and Administrator at The Park in Jamestown, NY, two Heritage rehab and skilled nursing communities.

It has now been over two months since our skilled nursing and assisted living facilities have been closed to visitors. Staff are being monitored daily upon arrival for work, continue to wear surgical masks, and are now wearing eye protection, such as face shields, to limit the transmission of COVID-19 from potential asymptomatic employees. We continue to regularly monitor residents for symptoms throughout day.

The health and safety of our staff and residents are of the utmost importance. As we have been directed to move into mandated testing for all employees by Governor Cuomo’s office, we needed to determine how we could implement that efficiently, while complying with all regulations, and preventing any impact to resident care. Our COVID-19 response team is committed to acting in the best interest of all staff and residents.

As a result, Heritage skilled nursing and rehabilitation communities in Chautauqua County temporarily ceased all admissions effective Tuesday, May 19, 2020, in response to the New York State mandate to test all nursing home employees for COVID-19. This temporary admission halt will affect The Village in Gerry, NY, The Park in Jamestown, NY, and The Green in Greenhurst, NY. We will not accept admissions into our skilled nursing communities until we have sufficient test results indicating that our staffing will not be negatively impacted by our compliance with the executive order.

Our COVID-19 task force continues to monitor and implement the ever-changing guidelines and protocols of the CDC as well as local, state, and federal authorities. At this time, the following guidelines have been implemented at all of our communities:

• Visitation at all skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and independent living communities are suspended until further notice.
• Common areas, including handrails and door knobs, are disinfected frequently.
• Masks are being worn in accordance with local, state, and federal guidelines at each location.
• Social distancing must be observed at all times.
• All pet visits continue to be suspended.
• We continue to discourage any non-essential trips or errands for our independent living residents. We do have a grocery delivery system in place to protect our residents and staff from exposure. If you are interested in using this service, please contact your community directly.

Our teams continue to provide for both the physical and emotional care of those we serve during these difficult times through various resident engagement activities. Phone calls, video chats, and window visits are being arranged through the social work and activities departments. We are happy to assist in scheduling these visits; however, we do request they be limited to one per day so that we can assure all residents have equal opportunity.

In an effort to offer more expedient and transparent communication, we have implemented an auto call system, so all families can be notified immediately, in the event we have a resident with a confirmed positive COVID-19 test. We ask that you send your current email address to questions@heritage1886.org so we may also contact you via email, or call 1-833-623-0162 with any questions.

We continue to seek God’s wisdom and pray for His supernatural protection for those whom He has entrusted to our care, as we seek to keep them safe and to promote Hope, Dignity, and Purposeful Living in these difficult times.

Sincerely,
Lisa Haglund
President and CEO

COVID-19 Positive Case

Heritage President and CEO, Lisa Haglund, and Heritage Chief Clinical Officer and Hearthstone Executive Director, Jeremy Rutter, confirmed today that Hearthstone, a Heritage senior living community in Woodstock, IL, has a resident that tested positive for the COVID-19 virus in their senior living community.

Rutter stated, “The resident, an 85 year old female, is believed to have been exposed to COVID-19. At this time, the resident is hospitalized, and we are working closely with the Illinois Department of Public Health to monitor the situation. The resident’s family has been informed. In accordance with HIPPA requirements, no further details will be released.”

Lisa Haglund shared, “At Hearthstone, the health and safety of both our residents and staff is of the utmost importance, and we are taking action to reduce the risk of exposure for all. The steps we are implementing are directly tied to the recommendations and guidelines of the CDC, WHO, and state, local, and federal regulations, and we will adjust these steps if those recommendations change. To date, we consider ourselves fortunate to have limited our exposure as a result of the proactive efforts of our staff working in conjunction with our COVID-19 task force.”

Hearthstone has taken multiple steps to help prevent exposure for residents, including restricting all visitors, daily employee and resident health screenings in accordance with CDC guidelines, and no group activities.
Rutter continued. “Our COVID-19 task force has been preparing for this eventuality, and we believe our incredible team of caregivers is well trained and ready to support our residents.”

COVID-19 Update

Dear Residents, Families, and Community Members,

We are grateful to report that as of this writing, none of our Heritage or Heritage affiliated communities have any positive cases of COVID-19. We continue to work diligently to ensure the health and safety of our residents and staff.

As mentioned in my last communication, residents of our skilled nursing facilities are being closely monitored for any signs or symptoms. We continue to check temperatures three times per day. The same is true in our assisted living communities with temperatures being taken twice daily. We continue to reach out to those who reside in our independent living communities to check on their health and have expanded our services to include meal delivery and grocery pick up.

The leadership teams of our communities have completed table top drills and each community currently has the necessary personal protective equipment in place for the safety of our staff, should we have a positive case. In the event of a positive case, each skilled nursing facility has a dedicated location for those individuals. Staff are aware of the procedures that will be followed to assure their safety and to avoid any potential spread throughout the facility.

I want to remind you that we are now going on 18 days since our communities essentially went into a quarantine scenario. All visitation was stopped and all congregate dining and large group activities were discontinued. Staff have been wearing surgical masks anytime they are working in direct care areas. All of these steps have been taken to avoid unknowingly introducing COVID-19 into our facilities.

In addition to the steps being taken to assure the health of your loved ones, our teams are working diligently to provide opportunities for life enrichment and connection with those under our care. Please feel free to contact the appropriate facility if you want to arrange a virtual visit. Additionally, in some of our communities, window visits may be possible.

We have been blessed to receive many donations from the community, and we know that many of you are praying for our residents and staff. Words cannot express how important your support is to our care teams! We continue to seek God’s supernatural protection for our residents, staff, and communities.

Sincerely,
David Smeltzer
Heritage President and CEO

ELC Update

Dear Hearthstone ELC Families and Staff,

Effective end of the business day Friday, March 20, 2020, Hearthstone Early Learning Center will be closed. At this time our tentative plan is to re-open when Woodstock District 200 re-opens.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. This was not an easy decision, and the health and safety of our ELC families and staff remains our priority. Please be ce1tain we have your most up to date email and contact information on file by emailing us at Hearthstoneelc@hearthstonewoodstock.org

Working together, we can minimize the impact of this disease on our community and continue to promote Hope, Healing, and Purposeful Living to each and every resident in our care.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Rutter
Hearthstone executive director
Heritage vice president of skilled nursing operations

Estimadas Familias y trabajadores de ELC, Apartir del final del dia, Viernes 20 de Marzo Hearthstone Early Learning Center va estar cerrado. En este momenta nuestro plan es reabrir cuando el Districto 200 de Woodstock reabra

Nuestros pensamientos y oraciones estan contigo y sus familias. Esta no fue una decision facil, la salud y segunidad de nuestras familias y trabajadores de ELC permanecen nuestra prioridad.

Por favor asegurense que tengamos sus mas recientes correos electornicos y informacion de contacto en nuestros sistemas por mandandonos un correo electronico a, Hearthstoneelc@hearthstonewoodstock.org

Trabajando juntas, podemos minimizar el impacto de la enfermedad en nuestra comunidad y seguir promoviendo la esperanza, recuperacion, y viviendo con intencion para cada persona y residente en nuestro cuidado.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Rutter
Hearthstone executive director
Heritage vice president of skilled nursing operations

y

Melissa Norman
Director of Hearthstone ELC

Letter to Independent Living Residents

Dear Prairie Home and Garden Home residents,

Last week I sent you a letter outlining our current steps to prevent the spread of Coronavirus/COVID-19.  As this is an ever-changing, fluid situation, I want to provide an update of new precautions that will be implemented immediately.

We will be offering pickup and delivery of essential items to our Independent Living residents. This can include:

• Groceries
• Prescriptions
• Essential household items

Jewel-Osco & Walmart both offer online grocery shopping with the option of selecting a pickup time.  We can assist with this and ask that you coordinate with Angela Standish 815-321-4024.

Additionally, we are recommending that you follow current CDC recommendations:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid group gatherings of over 10 people
• Self-Isolation if over the age of 65 as recommended by Leading Age
• Reduce unnecessary travel and appointments
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles) using a regular household detergent and water.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

I would like to reaffirm that our main goal is to ensure your safety.  The steps we are implementing are directly tied to the recommendations of the CDC, as well as state and local Health Departments, and we will continue to adjust our policies and procedures as needed. I encourage you to monitor our website and Facebook page for the latest updates. I will also be communicating updates as they occur.

We are committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and have put these measures in place to first and foremost keep our resident safe. We have a team in place that is diligently monitoring news updates and guidance from local, state, and federal agencies on an hourly basis and will make any necessary updates to continue to ensure the health of our residents. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the facility with any questions or concerns you may have and bear with us as we work to take quick action when needed while trying to keep our residents and families well informed of these changes. Working together, we can minimize the impact of this disease on our community and continue to promote Hope, Healing, and Purposeful Living to each and every resident in our care.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Rutter
Hearthstone executive director
Heritage vice president of skilled nursing operations

Letter to Friends of Hearthstone

Dear Friends of Hearthstone,

Last week I sent you a letter outlining our current steps to prevent the spread of Coronavirus/COVID-19. As this is an ever-changing, fluid situation, I wanted to provide an update of new restrictions that will be implemented immediately.

• Visitor restrictions will be extended until such time as lifted by all regulatory agencies (CMS, CDC, IDPH).
• No group dining
  • Residents who are able to eat independently will be served in their rooms
  • Residents who need assistance will be served in dining spaces with at least 6 feet between each resident.
• No group activities
• Prairie Home and Garden Home residents are not allowed to enter the Village or the Manor
• Prairie Home and Garden Home residents may order take-out meals which can be picked up outside the main entrance of the Village.
• No cross-site use of staff

I would like to reaffirm that there are no suspected or confirmed cases here in our community at this time. The steps we are implementing are directly tied to the recommendations of the CDC, as well as state and local Health Departments, and we will continue to adjust our policies and procedures as needed. The facilities will continue to reach out to families with any changes as able, but we encourage you to monitor our website and Facebook page for the latest facility updates.

Hearthstone Communities is committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and has put these measures in place to first and foremost keep our residents safe. We have a team in place that is diligently monitoring news updates and guidance from local, state, and federal agencies on an hourly basis and will make any necessary updates to continue to ensure the health of our residents. Please do not hesitate to reach outto the facility with any questions or concerns you may have and bear with us as we work to take quick action when needed while trying to keep our residents and families well informed of these changes. Working together, we can minimize the impact of this disease on our community and continue to promote Hope, Healing, and Purposeful Living to each and every resident in our care.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Rutter
Hearthstone executive director
Heritage vice president of skilled nursing operations

Letter to Friends of Hearthstone

Dear Friends of Hearthstone,

As you are aware from news reports, there are confirmed cases of Coronavirus/COVID-19 occurring in our state. Hearthstone Communities is committed to taking the appropriate steps and precautions in order to keep our residents and employees safe. Although there are no suspected or confirmed cases here in our community at this time, we are taking proactive steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among our residents and staff.  The steps we are implementing are directly tied to the recommendations of the CDC, as well as state and local Health Departments, and we will continue to adjust our policies and procedures as needed.

To comply with directives from Governor Pritzker and Illinois Department of Public Health we are restricting all visitation at our Skilled Nursing Facilities and Assisted Living Facility at this time. We are actively trying to reach out to families personally to inform them of this change. The facilities will continue to reach out to families with any changes as able but encourage you to monitor our website and Facebook page for the latest facility updates.

At the moment, dining services are continuing to function as normal. We are encouraging healthy residents to eat in the dining facilities with their friends, while asking those who are exhibiting any signs or symptoms of illness to have their meals delivered to them in the comfort of their room. Any changes to this will be communicated to residents and then to families. Independent Living residents are welcome to continue to utilize the Village for meals, activities, and entertainment, however, we are asking that you compete the questionnaire at the front desk prior to your visit.

Enrichment activities continue to be a priority, though we have limited activities outside of the facility, due to no outside volunteers or helpers coming in to assist with activities, and no intergenerational activities.

Hearthstone Communities is committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and has put these measures in place to first and foremost keep our residents safe. We have a team in place that is diligently monitoring news updates and guidance from local, state, and federal agencies on an hourly basis and will make any necessary updates to continue to ensure the health of our residents. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the facility with any questions or concerns you may have and bear with us as we work to take quick action when needed while trying to keep our residents and families well informed of these changes. Working together, we can minimize the impact of this disease on our community and continue to promote Hope, Healing, and Purposeful Living to each and every resident in our care.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Rutter
Hearthstone executive director
Heritage vice president of skilled nursing operations

Visitation Update

To comply with directives from local and state Departments of Health, WE ARE RESTRICTING ALL VISITATION at our skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities at this time. Visitation hours for independent living communities are 10am to 7pm.

 

Visitor Restriction Now Effective

Jeremy Rutter, Heritage vice president of skilled nursing operations and executive director at Hearthstone, a Heritage senior living community, has announced today that the Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed a case of COVID-19 coronavirus in McHenry County.

Rutter stressed that while Hearthstone currently has NO confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus, they are taking precautions.

“At Hearthstone, our residents and those we serve are our highest concern. The health and safety of both our residents and staff is of the utmost importance, and we are taking action to reduce the risk of exposure for all. The steps we are implementing are directly tied to the recommendations of the CDC andIllinois Department of Public Health, and we will adjust our steps if those recommendations change. Our staff have been well trained in preparation to support our residents.”

Effective immediately per the Illinois Department of Public Health, through March 18, 2020, Hearthstone will restrict all visitors except for those visiting end-of-life residents or those residents with dementia needing emotional support. End-of-life residents and dementia residents needing emotional support may have one visitor per day, ages 18 or older. All visitors will be screened for illness before being allowed to visit using a screening questionnaire. To reduce the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses, Hearthstone is restricting all visitors younger than 18 years of age until further notice.

Presently, any individuals, including vendors and employees, are being screened daily before Hearthstone buildings. Those who exhibit any symptoms, have recently traveled, or have been near anyone ill with symptoms are not currently being granted entrance.

Hearthstone staff, Rutter explained, has prepared extensively for any potential cases in the area and has confidence in the team. “Hearthstone and Heritage have taken a proactive approach to prevent the spread and transmission of COVID-19 within its communities. Heritage has formed a COVID-19 task force including experts in the fields of nursing homes, senior housing, and includes a CDC certified infection preventionist. I have the utmost confidence that this team of experts has prepared Hearthstone and Heritage to respond in a manner that will keep our residents, staff, and families safe.”

Statement from Hearthstone
Regarding COVID-19

At Hearthstone, our residents and those we serve are our highest concern. We would like to assure the public that we currently have no suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) at Hearthstone. The health and safety of both our community members and staff is of the utmost importance, and we are taking action to reduce the risk of exposure for all.

The steps we are implementing are directly tied to the recommendations of the CDC and the Illinois Department of Public Health, and we will adjust our steps if those recommendations change.

• Effective immediately, we are asking visitors to not enter our communities if they are exhibiting any type of symptoms or have recently traveled to any area of concern.
• We are limiting events that bring outside groups of people to Hearthstone communities and are minimizing large group and outside trip activities to lessen the chance of exposure.
• Our staff has been well trained in preparation to support our residents.

We thank everyone for their patience and cooperation. Working together we can minimize the impact of this disease on our community.