Live from Cross Keys Village!
The Senior Living universe is papered with policies and regulations, and we can honestly claim that there is a plan in place for every eventuality – from the mundane to the unexpected. Nevertheless, when we quickly went into lockdown 5 months ago, we found ourselves in unfamiliar territory. We abruptly cancelled all group gatherings with no idea when we would be able to restart. Campus Dining never stopped, of course, and after a period of takeout-service only, our Harmony Ridge restaurants have reopened to villagers, with some restrictions.
Three areas sorely missed by villagers during the early stages of the pandemic were our Wellness program, our Discovery Classes, and our worship services. As soon as we were allowed, we came up with innovative solutions: small-group outdoor exercise in the cool of the early morning, taped classes, and reruns of pre-recorded services. Our villagers were patient and appreciative during those fast-evolving weeks.
Today we are happy to share that “live” presentations have fully resumed, albeit with modifications (and with a lot of preparation “behind the scenes”). Land-based fitness classes are offered several times a day by reservation, as are Discovery Classes. The range of classes is still limited, and we aren’t ready to offer aquatic classes yet. However, the Aquatic Center and our Cardio & Strength Room are available for self-guided time. The inability to welcome outside speakers is a definite obstacle for the Discovery Courses, but internal talent is on hand to cover one of our villager’s main topic of interest: cooking & eating.
Finally, we have resumed worship services, in Harmony Ridge, for villagers. Director of Pastoral Care Linda Titzell was thrilled to reconnect with this segment of her congregation. And for the others, Mission Point residents and outside members of our Faith Community, Pastor Linda records her message every week and makes it available online.
Director of Life Enrichment Holly Fetting is looking at the changes due to the virus in a positive light. “We hear talk of the new normal as if it’s bad but surely there is something beyond the old normal,” she says. “Let’s create a new-and-improved normal! In the midst of this challenging time, this is an opportunity for us to re-think, re-evaluate and re-invent our community!” Director of Wellness Holly Shearer assures us that “Wellness classes are going great. Our villagers are excited to be back into their wellness routines and the staff is grateful to lead the programming. Despite smaller-size classes and a still limited schedule, everyone is grateful that wellness is open in some capacity.”