Our Response to COVID-19
In a time where life has seemed to halt altogether, Visiting Angels Grand Junction is here for you. We are diligently reading and implementing information regarding the COVID-19 global pandemic provided by federal, state, and county health agencies. As data emerges, we are communicating recommendations and guidelines with our Care Specialists. We recognize what a privilege it is to continue to be able to serve our clients in their homes and are doing everything on our end to ensure that care is provided in a safe, educated manner.
We want to take a moment to reassure our clients and their families that we are taking this pandemic seriously. We are doing what we can to stop the spread of the disease. We have already provided a refresher course for all employees on infection control. We offered this via a webinar so that our Care Specialists were not all together in one room. We are providing all Care Specialists with masks, gloves, and Purell wipes. We have placed an order of bottled hand sanitizers and will distribute those once the shipment arrives. Our Care Specialists are committed to doing everything they can to stay healthy for their clients. Just as everyone else has been encouraged to stay home, our care specialists have been encouraged to avoid contact with the public. Should they feel ill, they have been instructed to call our office immediately. All Care Specialists paychecks are paid via direct deposit, which eliminates the need for them to pick their checks up at the office in large gatherings. We have also cancelled all events that would bring our Care Specialists together in a group. Speaking of our office, our office staff has been cut by 50%—two office staff members will remain in the office while two office staff members will work from home. We will continue to provide our Care Specialists with up-to-date, factual information regarding COVID-19, so that they are well equipped to provide care for our clients.
In order to reduce our clients’ exposure to COVID-19, we have eliminated transportation services to grocery stores at this time. Clients needing assistance with groceries will work with their Care Specialist to pre-order groceries and essentials for pick up. Care Specialists are not providing service in any facility setting at this time. We ask that our clients do their part in keeping our Care Specialists safe and healthy. Please wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or with a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects or ask your Care Specialist to assist you with this task. Please cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw it away immediately.
Families, we recognize that you may not be able to visit your aging loved one in person during this global pandemic. Our Care Specialists are more than happy to connect you with your aging loved one via video chat. We can teach them how to answer and make video calls too, so that when we’re not here, you can keep in touch and enjoy a virtual visit. Rest assured that we are engaging with your aging loved one during our visits and keeping tabs on their mental and emotional well-being.
Visiting Angels Grand Junction thanks you in advance for your cooperation and diligence in preventing the spread of the virus. As we navigate this crisis, we appreciate your patience as we adapt our care policies and procedures as new data is presented. Our Care Specialists are working hard to ease our clients’ fears and anxieties. We are being mindful and self-aware of how we interact when we are not in client homes, so that our clients can have peace of mind. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the proactive measures that we are taking, please contact us by calling 970-254-8888. We are here for you and will be happy to keep you informed.