Older adults are at higher risk for COVID-19.

In particular, those age 65 and older or with serious underlying medical conditions.

Bethany Home with over 365 residents and 250 employees – the Ripon retirement community offers skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, in-home care, adult day care and independent living – is taking precautions against the spread of coronavirus.

“Our No. 1 goal is to prevent the introduction of COVID-19 at any of our facilities – that’s our mission,” said Executive Director Cindy Scheublein.

In an effort to protect the residents and staff, Bethany Homes just enacted the following at the Manor and Town Square Apartment Buildings:

• The front doors to these buildings are now locked 24/7.
• Door monitors are in place between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to receive deliveries and allow entry for Home Health, In-Home Care, and personal caregivers. If a visit or delivery must be made before or after these hours, the resident must be contacted to allow entry through he front lobby of the building.
• All visitors entering the building are required to complete the self-screen questionnaire and be free of any symptom (entry will be denied to those failing to comply or having any health-related issues).
• Any social visits to residents will be held outside on the patio areas while keeping the six-foot social distancing in mind.
• Those visiting during inclement weather can do so in the designated area inside each building.

Residents of the Manor and Town Square Apartment Buildings are not only complying with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stay at home orders but are also locked in.

They’re still encouraged to go outside for a stroll while getting fresh air and Vitamin D.

In addition, the Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living / Memory Care buildings are locked 24/7 – a delivery to a loved one must be scheduled ahead of time.

Bethany Home will post updates on what’s happening on the Facebook page or on the website, www.bethanyripon.org.