Community Update: May 1, 2020
Dear residents, families, staff, caregivers and friends:
Another week has come to a close. We have had touching moments, like the arrival of surprise snack bags from Brenda DiCarlo and staff at Southern Maryland Food Bank, and we have had some frustrations, including technical issues with our in-house movie and news channels. One constant in this time of uncertainty has been our shared commitment to each other as a community. Here are this week’s news items:
COVID-19 update
As of today, there are no known cases of COVID-19 at Cedar Lane. Please continue to stay at home as much as possible and wear a cloth facemask that covers your nose and mouth when venturing out of your apartment for exercise or essential trips. Make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask. If your facemask does not fit properly, please contact Wanda Fenwick at 301.475.8966 ext. 24 for a replacement.
Cedar Lane is not included in Governor’s universal testing order
Nursing homes have seen some of the most severe outbreaks of COVID-19 in the state. On Wednesday, Governor Larry Hogan issued an executive order requiring all residents and staff at Maryland nursing homes to be tested for the coronavirus, regardless of whether they show symptoms. As an independent living apartment community, Cedar Lane is not included in this executive order.
CDC announced new COVID-19 symptoms
Also this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced six new symptoms that can accompany the coughing, fever and shortness of breath associated with COVID-19. The six new symptoms are:
- Chills
- Shaking
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat
- A new loss of taste and smell
In addition, some people may experience diarrhea. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your health provider immediately and follow his or her instructions.
HUD guidance for tenants during COVID-19 pandemic
Attached you will find a brochure published by the Department of Housing and Urban Development that helps to answer questions you have may as a tenant during the COVID-19 National Emergency.
May Rent
May rent is due on Wednesday May 6th. Payment can be placed in the one of the two drop boxes on campus. One-drop box is located in the door of the Finance Office and the other box is located in the lobby of the Church Building. Do not place cash in the drop boxes. We thank you for timely rent payment; please note the Finance Office will be closed until further notice.
In-house movie and news channels
Good news, the equipment part has arrived and both of these in-house TV channels should be up and running by the weekend.
Your feedback wanted
We are very interested in hearing how we can make life a little easier during this shutdown. Let us know what sorts of things you would like to see on the activities cart and on channel 2 so we can create a better experience for you. Please contact Wanda Fenwick at 301-475-8966 ext. 24 or [email protected] with your ideas.
Right now, we are all being challenged in ways we never could have imagined. Clear communication has never been more important. I pledge to be proactive in sharing information that affects our community. Please stay healthy and safe, and thank you for doing what you can to make the best of this difficult situation.
Sincerely,
Beverly A. Stickles
President & CEO