Senior living facilities were among the first places to begin enforcing visitor restrictions when Covid-19 hit, as suggested by the Center for Disease Control. Visitors to the care facilities have been restricted for nearly two months, with only essential personnel allowed in the building. The realities of Covid-19 have forced Ridgeway, Woodstone in New Ulm and other facilities to reduce social contact to keep residents safe and healthy. Inside the facilities residents also must maintain social distancing. They are still able to interact with staff, but it is not the same. Abzug said the restrictions are painful for everyone. Residents at Woodstone are urged to wear masks outside their rooms. A community coordinator goes from room to room for one-on-one activities. Group activities are no longer possible. Technology is being heavily used. Whenever possible residents communicate with family through iPads and Zoom conferences. Skype has been a prominent form of communication at Woodstone. Family is free to call loved ones or visit from outside the window, but the window must remain closed.
