Window Calls Letter Home

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has taken our county, state, and country by storm in a very short period of time, often moving so quickly that state and federal agencies have been forced to evolve and respond daily if not by the hour. As promised in previous communications, we wanted to share some new guidance we’ve received from New York State and our response to it, specifically related to campus visitation and communication.

Just over one month ago, nursing homes and assisted living communities were closed to all visitation with the exception of essential service providers and facility staff. To comply with this and to encourage social distancing, we asked resident friends and family to avoid congregating outside resident windows. Not only does it pose privacy concerns for residents in nearby rooms, it also put many of you at risk as well. When this public health crisis began, no one imagined how long it would persist. Like many, we reacted as best we could with the information we had, always choosing to protect our residents and employees first.

This week, NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order requiring individuals to wear facial coverings at all times while out in the community. Based on this, we have decided to loosen our position on a particular type of campus visit that is known as a window call.

A window call is when friends or family can visit a designated window or doorway to communicate with a resident via mobile device. It allows residents the opportunity to see and interact with visitors while keeping a barrier in between to avoid possible spread of infection. We will allow groups of no more than two (2) people on campus to participate at a time. These visits will become more popular over time, so please keep your eye on the weather and use the following contacts to schedule your window calls. This gives our staff time to make proper transportation arrangements to and from resident rooms.

LHRC Units: (A1) 716-665-8164, (B1) 716-665-8115, (A2) 716-665-8165, and (B2) 716-665-8118

HP Activities: 716-720-9624

Also on a related note, we will be updating our website soon with an archive of past communications as well as status updates regarding COVID-19 news on our campus. As we’ve said before, we have tested several residents for symptoms, but all tested negative for the virus. Kudos to our staff for doing everything they can to prevent exposure or spread of the virus within our walls.

In an effort to remain as transparent as possible, you will receive COVID-19 communications from us on a regular basis going forward. We know this situation is not easy; it goes against all of our natural instincts to be close with those we love. We’re committed to serving our residents and you as best we can and thank you in advance for your understanding and willingness to work with us through this trying time.

Sincerely,

Tom Holt
President and CEO