November 19, 2021
Dear Walker Methodist family,
As we near Thanksgiving, I have been reflecting on all that I am thankful for. And this year, Walker Methodist is taking part in the Self-Care initiative alongside LeadingAge of Minnesota. Through this initiative, we are choosing to bring more joy into our lives by focusing on three positive things a day.
Today, I am thankful for (1) the residents we serve, (2) the amazing team members who show up every day to care for them, and (3) that visitation restrictions have lifted, allowing families and residents to be together this holiday season.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Minnesota Department of Health have lifted visitation restrictions for skilled nursing and assisted living communities. This means that visitors are welcome in our buildings regardless of the COVID status of the community. Now, if there is a COVID-positive case in the community, visitors are still allowed to come in. We will continue to notify residents, family, and team members when there is a positive case so that you can be advised of the risk.
While we are so grateful that we can keep our doors open, we are also aware that this can increase risk of exposure, especially because COVID-19 county transmission levels are high in Minnesota. As a result, we still need to be diligent in practicing our core infection prevention practices: (1) Do not visit if you are feeling ill, (2) practice good hand hygiene, (3) wear a mask, and (4) maintain social distancing. Please continue to follow these practices to help us protect our residents and team members.
Thank you for being a part of the Walker Family and helping keep our communities safe!
Brenda Schrupp, LSW, LNHA, LHSE
Executive Director of Quality and Corporate Compliance