News Vinton Lutheran Home Communities holds drive through picnic

In the days of COVID lockdowns, those suffering the most from confinement are our elderly who are unable to see family and friends.

On Friday the Vinton Lutheran Home came up with a brilliant idea to allow families to sit next to their loved one, at the window in the dining area. A delicious cookout meal was provided to residents and guests alike.  

In a statement from Vinton's Lutheran Home they said, "  In a time of uncertainty due to the COVID pandemic, the health and safety of those we serve  at the Vinton Lutheran Home  remains our top priority. In keeping with the federal guidelines and restrictions designed to keep our residents safe, only essential needs such as therapy services, bathing and dining can currently take place outside of the resident's personal living space. Cloth masks donated by local seamstresses are required to be worn by residents whenever they leave their room.  So that each resident can partake in meals  outside of their room, distance dining is  structured  to ensure that residents are spaced at least six feet apart and meals are completed in shifts.  Individual activities are provided for residents in their room and “Hall Bingoâ€� is a crowd favorite. Masked residents play by sitting in the doorway  of their room  while bingo numbers are called on walkie talkies. The games are lively and loud at times!    

In the face of these restrictions,  National Skilled Nursing Home Week 2020 was creatively and innovatively celebrated. Activities throughout the week were centered around the theme, “Sharing Our Wisdom.â€� Daily themed activities included “Sharing a Laugh,â€� Sharing our Family,â€� “Sharing a Game,â€� and "Sharing our Wisdom with the World.â€� Pictures are available on our Facebook page for all to enjoy. Our week culminated with “Sharing a Mealâ€� and  was celebrated by residents and families with a  “Drive-Thru Picnic.â€�

The  Drive-Thru Picnic  menu included our summer fundraising Drive-Thru favorites  of burgers on a pretzel roll,  chips, and malts. Chef Justin Ealy and  the facility  management team  creatively brainstormed  ways to safely carry out  this activity within the current COVID restrictions.  Following strict social distancing guidelines and hygienic practices, families were invited to enjoy their lunch  “picnic styleâ€�  within view of their loved one. Cell phones provided a means of communication  so that conversations could be held despite being separated by a  closed  window! We would like to thank the many families who were able to participate and make this event special for their loved ones. The demonstration  of respect  by families  for the required safety guidelines  was  truly appreciated and helped to make this a successful undertaking.â€�

Great job Vinton Lutheran Home Communities for going the extra mile for our senior citizens!