As the Director of Sales & Marketing for Cumberland Village, I have received many phone calls over the past few months asking, “Should I move now? How would I make the move now?” Covid 19 has made all of our lives a little more (and for some, a lot more) difficult. But moving to Cumberland, especially now, has been perfect for others.
As we all know, Covid 19 has severely affected seniors and those with underlying conditions. I think it’s safe to say that describes about 90% of our residents. Following the CDC guidelines, the only people allowed in the building are residents, employees and caregivers. We ask that residents not leave the community except for necessary appointments. How do they get by you ask? We order groceries for them, drive them to the bank, set up social media chat with their families, deliver meals to their apartments and patio homes AND, we provide social interaction for our residents. Even under these circumstances, Marie Hamilton, our Director of Activities has come up with creative ways to stimulate the resident’s minds and bodies. We have entertainers who sing and play music to residents on their balconies, we are broadcasting the opera, LaBoheme via YouTube, and we even do “Mingle on Wheels” where Marie and her side kick Suzanne pack up their little red wagon with beer, wine and soft drinks and visit residents in their apartments and patio homes. I encourage you to check on the pictures and videos on our Facebook page!
Studies show social interaction is one of the most important things a person can have. Residents can also mingle with other residents. We abide by all CDC guidelines – residents are to stay 6 feet apart, meals in the dining room are broken down into 3 shifts. Only 2 residents are at each table. Any resident who is not comfortable going into the dining room may have their meals delivered – at no charge.
Following the CDC guidelines, the only people allowed in the building are residents, employees and caregivers. We ask that residents not leave the community except for necessary appointments. But our Cumberland family (and their family members) are truly glad they are living at Cumberland during this trying time. Many of them have written thank you notes and emails to thank us for being there for them. And seldom does a day go by when I don’t hear someone say, “I am so glad I live here during this time. I can’t imagine what I would do if I were at home by myself.”
The result of these actions? Thus far, we have had no one who works or lives at Cumberland Village test positive for Covid-19. Quite honestly, I am amazed at our good fortune. Have the last few months been hard on many of our residents? Absolutely. But have their lives been better for living at Cumberland Village? No doubt about it. I invite you to speak to any of our residents or their family.
If you would like to learn more about Cumberland Village, please call Samantha Peel at (803) 594-4202. She will be happy to do a virtual video tour with you. Additional information is available on their website, www.CumberlandVillageAiken.com. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram
