OHCA Oregon Caregiver Spring Summer 2020

The Oregon Caregiver SPRING/SUMMER 2020 www.ohca.com 8 FEATURE » HEALTHCARE HEROES, CONT. “From my facility’s viewpoint, OHCA and OHA have been absolutely amazing. They listen with surveys that we do, they respond timely, and I really feel that we’re getting excellent, excellent support from our state and county resources,” said Reid. The state guidelines include restricting visitors and large gatherings. Regular activities were cancelled, so activity directors had to pivot. Many facilities turned to hallway bingo and video calls to family members, while others flexed their creative muscles. “We have a room that’s set up like a beach party,” said Reid. “We have video screens with a beach scenario, and we hung lights and made it beautiful. If people get too wound up, they can sit there and listen to the waves crash and just take a few moments to breathe.” For most facilities, the toughest battle is against resident isolation. While resi- dents are confined to their rooms most of the time to avoid spread of the virus, they also get more one-on-one time and extra attention from caregivers. Oak Lane’s caregivers go room-to room with residents on a cycle every week, provid- ing games, nutritional care, and good company. On one occasion, the staff organized a caravan to the Wildlife Safari in Douglas County to help residents feel less isolated. Residents were able to see animals and enjoy the outdoors without ever leaving their cars. At Marquis Plum Ridge in Klamath Falls, resident engagement is a priority. Rebecca Nork, the activity director for the facility says her programming focuses on getting residents active, both mentally and physically. “We wanted to prevent isolation within our facility and communities, recogniz- ing that our seniors need more love and support now than ever,” said Nork. She started broadcasting activities to all 78 residents in the facility on their television screens to host bingo, nonde- nominational Bible studies, cooking classes, and fitness classes, among many others. Some days, Nork sets up virtual tours at popular destinations around the world, so residents are able to explore the Smithsonian Museum and visit watering holes on an African Safari, all from the comfort of their rooms. Video calls to families remain an important aspect in her residents’ lives to not only foster relationships with loved ones, but, at times, to rebuild them. Resident Jessie shows off her COVID-19 Positivity Board at Marquis Plum Ridge. Caregivers at Oak Lane practice social distancing and wear personal protective equipment (PPE).