COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of our society. From shaking hands and hugging to economic shifts, our lives have been disrupted like never before. These changes have raised a lot of questions about the future: What will things be like moving forward? When will life go back to “normal”? Are other changes here to stay?
According to Jeffrey Cole, director of the Center for the Digital Future at the University of Southern California, “the kind of change that’s occurred over a few months will change how we do things for years (AARP).” Most experts agree that we should be prepared to embrace these changes for the better.
With luxury senior living communities throughout San Antonio, Texas, Franklin Park® has been prioritizing the health and safety of residents since before the first concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to implement changes and protocols to keep residents, guests, and employees safe as we move forward into the new “normal.”
What Changes Are Here to Stay?
As we’ve adjusted to this new society, some changes have been for the better—making our lives more convenient and healthier. These changes, including the enhanced health protocols, the “touchless” and virtual services, and the opportunity to slow down and spend more time at home, will likely become commonplace and routine.
Enhanced Health Protocols
Even after the threat of the pandemic has passed, people will likely remain diligent about avoiding germs. Washing hands for the recommended 20 seconds, avoiding handshakes and touching of the face, and [for some] wearing a mask will all become ordinary fixtures of life, especially during the annual cold and flu season.
This hyper-attention to cleanliness is undoubtedly a change for the better, as it protects individuals, especially older adults and the immunocompromised, from germs and viruses other than the coronavirus.
Virtual Services and Connectivity
In today’s technological landscape, you have the entire world at your fingertips. Businesses and beyond have used this to their advantage during the pandemic, offering contactless delivery services, virtual doctor appointments and events, video calls with family, and remote learning. These services allow you to get the necessities, connectivity, and entertainment that you need, all within the comfort—and safety—of your home.
Video chatting and telehealth have been two of the greatest assets for Franklin Park® Senior Living residents during COVID-19. With the ability to not only stay in touch with family and friends during a trying time but also receive necessary healthcare, these virtual services have allowed our residents to feel safe and connected.
Slow Down and Reassess
Quarantine and stay-at-home orders have significantly disrupted the typical schedules of work, school, and busy calendars. By spending more time at home, people have been given the opportunity to stop, slow down, and enjoy free time.
Instead of meetings and commutes, people are focusing on self-care, sourdough recipes, and home organization. This change of pace and priority may have been unwelcomed at first, but as people have begun to realize what’s truly important in life, this is a change that will hopefully continue after COVID-19.
An Uncertain Future
While it’s safe to assume that plastic workout bubbles and mannequins in restaurants won’t become mainstays in our everyday lives, other aspects of the future remain uncertain – how we will work, attend events, and go to school are unclear as we continue to navigate this pandemic.
Fortunately, by implementing some of these new habits into our everyday lives and routines, we can be better prepared to face similar crises.
Senior Living During COVID-19
As older adults are among the most vulnerable populations to the COVID-19 virus, many have questioned the safety of senior living communities. However, due to the sweeping health and safety measures, cleanliness protocols, and general diligence, we believe senior living communities are one of the safest places for older adults during these circumstances.
The Future of Franklin Park®
Like the rest of society, Franklin Park® Senior Living has enacted extensive sanitization measures, heightened security standards, and innovative ways to keep residents active and engaged. While the future of many things is uncertain, we will continue to implement these health standards long after the pandemic has subsided. Our residents’ health and safety have been, are, and always will be, our top priority.
Our luxury senior living communities throughout Texas are continuing to navigate this pandemic as best as possible. We’re following all guidelines from the CDC and the Texas Department of Health and Human Service, and ensuring that our residents continue to receive quality care and stay connected to friends and family.
For more information on Franklin Park’s COVID-19 response, our services, or our communities, visit our website.