March 13, 2020
In response to the spread of COVID-19 in New York State and mandates from regulatory authorities, Kendal at Ithaca is taking further community mitigation measures.
Kendal at Ithaca is instituting practices, all aimed at mitigating risk of exposure, by adjusting services that naturally facilitate contact among large numbers of people and places within outside the community. These efforts include adjustments to dining services, transportation services, and gatherings on campus.
- Per the mandate of Governor Cuomo and guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, no visits will be allowed in the Health Center. We are asking Health Center residents to stay in the Health Center. Visitation will be allowed at end of life and for cases of extreme emotional distress to a resident.
- We are asking that there be no visitors to campus, including IL residences, other than caregivers.
- All staff, independent residents, and other visitors will be screened for signs and symptoms of illness prior to entering the community building. Anyone exhibiting symptoms will not be allowed in the building.
- All nonessential trips will be cancelled. We will continue to provide transportation for groceries, but will limit the number of passengers. We will add more trips if we need to, based on demand.
- Beginning March 14, all meals will be available for takeout only. We will also be enhancing meal delivery services at no charge.
- We are asking all activities to be limited to no more than 10 people and in rooms large enough to allow for 3-6 feet between people.
March 9, 2020
Kendal at Ithaca is working hard to develop plans and strategies to safeguard the health and welfare of the persons who live, work and visit here. Our goal is to reduce the chances for infection and spread of the virus. We are following the guidance from the CDC and the New York State Department of Health.
We are actively providing reminders for best practices for preventing the spread of the virus and monitoring the health of all, but especially those who are traveling outside of the immediate area.
AS of March 10, 2020, we have decided to limit the size and number of group gatherings for both our residents and visitors. Where possible, we will attempt to livestream large group meetings for Kendal residents to minimize person to person contact.
Outside groups will be asked to move or postpone their activities currently scheduled in spaces here at Kendal at Ithaca.
Contingency planning is well underway for handling the various scenarios that may develop as the course of this situation changes.
We emphasize that individuals – residents, guests, visitors and staff – who are ill should stay away. Please remain at home. Everyone is encouraged to follow the best practices especially handwashing. It’s simple and the best.