LATEST UPDATES

The most up-to-date information about our communities is posted below. If you’d like to view a list of confirmed cases in our communities, please click here. If you have questions about COVID-19 or the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit our FAQs page.

June 23

We have released a new COVID-19 response checklist, which you can view on the plans and protocols page here. This checklist summarizes all the key policies to be followed in an easier-to-follow format.

March 30

The FDA has approved a second booster shot for immunocompromised individuals and adults over 50. They have updated their emergency use authorizations to state the following:  

  • A second booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered to individuals 50 years of age and older at least 4 months after receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine. 
  • A second booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered to individuals 12 years of age and older with certain kinds of immunocompromise at least 4 months after receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine. These are people who have undergone solid organ transplantation, or who are living with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise. 
  • A second booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered at least 4 months after the first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine to individuals 18 years of age and older with the same certain kinds of immunocompromise. 

    If you have questions regarding this update, please consult the FDA’s statement. 

          January 12

          According to the CDC, Omicron has been detected in most states and is rapidly increasing the proportion of COVID-19 cases. As a result of this news, we have updated many of our COVID-19 and vaccine FAQs to address the many questions surrounding this variant. The new FAQs address:

          • What is Omicron?
          • What you should do if you are exposed to and/or test positive for COVID-19.
          • Whether the vaccine protects against the Omicron variant.
          • Eligibility around the COVID-19 vaccine and subsequent booster shot. 

          If you have any questions related to the Omicron variant, please consult the CDC website.

                October 27

                Now that the FDA and CDC have recommended that certain people are eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster shot, we are encouraging all associates and staff to receive a booster shot of their choice.

                • For individuals who received the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster. This should be given six months or more after their initial series.
                  • 65 years and older
                  • Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
                  • Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
                  • Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings (this would apply to all ISL/SSL staff)
                • For individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, a booster is recommended for anyone age 18 or older. The booster should be administered at two months or more after their initial series.
                • The CDC now allows for mix-and-match dosing for booster shots. Qualified individuals can receive any of the three vaccines as a booster, regardless of the vaccine used for the initial series.

                We also recently updated our culinary protocols when it comes to visitors. If visitors show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test from the past 72 hours, they are able to participate in regular culinary activities, meaning:

                • Visitors should sit at a table only with the resident they are visiting.
                • Visitors should wear a cloth face covering or mask when in common areas of the community, including coming to/from the dining room.
                • Local restrictions on dining room/restaurant capacities will be followed.

                      September 7

                      The CDC announced last week that they are recommending a booster shot of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to help further protect you from COVID-19. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine was released several months after Pfizer and Moderna, so we expect it will be a few weeks before the CDC announces a recommendation for recipients of the J&J single-dose vaccine.

                      We have made the decision as a company to mandate (barring religious or medical exemptions) that associates receive a booster shot to ensure the continued protection of our residents and one another. For now, this applies only to those who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.

                      A few notes:
                      • Boosters are being reviewed by the FDA with an expected rollout the week of September 20th at no cost to the recipient.
                      • You will be eligible for your booster shot starting eight months after you received the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. You will need to show proof of your booster shot within 14 days/2 weeks after the date of your eligibility.
                      • This is not a new vaccine. It is a third dose of the same vaccine previously administered to you. The third dose is expected to help extend the duration of effectiveness/protection.
                      • As soon as a recommendation for a J&J booster shot has been made, we’ll share that information.
                      • We are working to coordinate booster shots for our residents and will keep you updated as plans are secured
                      • On Aug. 23, Pfizer received full FDA approval, and Moderna is likely to receive full approval soon.
                      • Most importantly, the vaccine is safe and effective at reducing the risk of serious illness, even against the Delta variant.

                      We’ve made great strides in the fight against COVID-19, but we must continue our efforts. It is our responsibility as a company to safeguard the health and well-being of our associates and residents, as well as the community-at-large, from risks associated with COVID-19. This directive will further assist and support this effort.

                            August 25

                            On Aug. 23, 2021, the FDA granted full approval for Pfizer-BioNTech (COMIRNATY) COVID-19 vaccine in preventing COVID-19 disease in individuals 16 years of age and older. The vaccine also continues to be available under emergency use authorization (EUA), including for individuals 12 through 15 years of age and for the administration of a third dose in certain immunocompromised individuals.

                            In a statement from acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D., she said, “The FDA’s approval of this vaccine is a milestone as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. While this and other vaccines have met the FDA’s rigorous, scientific standards for emergency use authorization, as the first FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine, the public can be very confident that this vaccine meets the high standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality the FDA requires of an approved product.”

                            As we continue to receive updates about the vaccine and booster shots, we will make sure to share updates. Please let your Executive Director know if you have questions or concerns.

                            August 19

                            As our team gathers more details from the CDC and our pharmacy partners in regard to booster doses for the COVID-19 vaccine, we did want to share a quick update with you on what we know so far:

                            • The CDC has recommended a third booster dose for those who received the Pfizer or Moderna COVID vaccine.
                            • More data is being gathered on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and what booster recommendations will be made for that vaccine. We expect it will be a few weeks before the CDC finalizes recommendations for recipients of the J&J single-dose vaccine.
                            • Boosters are recommended starting eight months after the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Boosters will begin the week of Sept. 20.
                            • Boosters will be available at no cost to the recipient.
                            • Boosters are being recommended based on signs from CDC research that suggest the effectiveness of the vaccines decreases over time.
                            • This is not a new vaccine. It is a third dose of the same vaccine previously administered. The vaccine is effective against COVID, including the Delta variant. But the third dose is expected to help extend the duration of that effectiveness/protection.
                            • The CDC has stated they will begin efforts to deliver booster shots directly to our residents. It is unclear at this time exactly what that process will be. We will continue to work with the CDC and our pharmacy partners to solidify plans/recommendations for accessing booster doses. 

                            You can read the full CDC statement here: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s0818-covid-19-booster-shots.html

                            We will continue to provide updates as they become available.

                            August 11

                            As the Delta variant picks up across the country, we have made updates to our COVID-19 plan to keep residents and associates safe and stay in line with recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and local county health departments.

                            • Mask/Face Covering Recommendations
                              • Updated to reflect CDC recommendation that all individuals wear masks indoors in areas with substantial or high transmission, regardless of vaccination status.
                            • COVID-19 Testing
                              • Clarified/updated situations in which fully vaccinated individuals should be tested based on current CDC guidance.
                              • All move-ins to be tested as part of the move-in process.
                            • Vaccines
                              • Associates have been vaccinated against COVID-19 and will get a booster shot if required by the CDC. This is in keeping with Integral Senior Living and Solstice Senior Living’s vaccine mandate that requires all associates to be vaccinated barring a religious or medical exemption.
                            • Visitor Guidelines
                              • Essential visits will never stop (compassionate care, home health, PT, etc.).
                              • Visits will continue unless in outbreak status.
                                • Unvaccinated visitors
                                  1. Must wear a mask/face covering inside of community.
                                • Vaccinated visitors
                                  1. Must wear a mask/face covering if in the presence of an unvaccinated resident.
                                  2. May be exempt from wearing a mask if allowed by state and local health department guidance.
                            • Exposure Protocol
                              • Updated protocol for residents and associates in the case of exposure to COVID-19
                                • Vaccinated staff
                                  • Can continue working.
                                  • Test if “higher-risk” exposure.
                                • Unvaccinated staff
                                  • Must quarantine for 14 days.
                                  • Can return sooner with negative test(s).
                                • Vaccinated residents
                                  • Must quarantine.
                                  • Wear full PPE.
                                  • Can be removed from quarantine with test or consult with health department.
                                • Unvaccinated residents
                                  • Must quarantine.
                                  • Wear full PPE.
                                  • Can be removed from quarantine with test or consult with health department.

                            July 8

                            As the pandemic continues to wane, states are rolling back their COVID-19 restrictions and precautions. As a result, we have updated our plan to enable communities to follow the model set forth by their states regarding COVID-19 recommendations.

                            Additionally, we’ve made a few other changes to the plan:

                            • COVID-19 Safety Coordinator
                              • Added this role to comply with OSHA’s new COVID-19 guidelines for employers.
                            • Visitor Guidelines
                              • We simplified our policy and clarified the language around masks:
                                • Unvaccinated visitors
                                  • Must wear a mask/face covering inside of community
                                • Vaccinated visitors
                                  • Must wear a mask/face covering if in the presence of an unvaccinated resident
                                  • May be exempt from wearing a mask if allowed by state and local health department guidance
                            • Resident Screening
                              • Simplified the policy to say that fully vaccinated residents can self-report their symptoms instead of going through the formal screening process.
                            • Culinary
                              • Fully vaccinated residents may partake in dining unless otherwise restricted by their state and local health departments.
                            • Vibrant Life®
                              • Fully vaccinated visitors may participate in Vibrant Life® activities unless otherwise restricted by their state and local health departments.
                            • Personal Protective Equipment
                              • Updated to abide with new OSHA standards
                            • Mask/ Face Covering Recommendations
                              • Clarified when masks should be worn
                            • Solid Barriers (i.e., plexiglass)
                              • In accordance with OSHA guidelines, cleanable or disposable solid barriers are installed at fixed workspaces in non-resident care areas where unvaccinated employees are not able to be separated from others by at least 6 feet.
                            • Independent Living
                              • We are now suggesting that freestanding independent living communities follow state guidelines designed for the general public for restrictions (if any) for culinary, activities, outings, visitors and ancillary services. All other sections of the COVID plan should still be followed (PPE, testing, outbreak response, etc.).

                            June 14

                            In keeping with recent CDC COVID-19 guidelines, we have updated our protocols for confirmed cases and screening residents, staff and visitors for symptoms.

                            • Confirmed Case Guidelines – If a resident or associate has a confirmed COVID-19 case, we ask that unvaccinated residents enter into quarantine. We will not suspend culinary and Vibrant Life® activities unless we experience a true outbreak.
                            • Screening of Residents, Staff and Visitors – Fully vaccinated residents living in independent living communities are exempt from daily symptom/temperature screening. Please keep in mind that all unvaccinated independent living, assisted living and Generations residents should still be screened daily. We will continue to screen all persons entering a community for signs and symptoms or possible exposure to COVID-19. Staff will continue to be screened at the beginning of each shift. We will follow any state or county health department screening guidance.

                            May 4

                            Now that vaccines are readily available for all adults, we wanted to share some updates and reinforce our current guidelines for visitors, as well as the new protocols we’ve put in place for our associates.

                            As a result of many states’ revising their visitation guidelines, we’ve adjusted our visitor and group activity protocols for communities that do NOT have confirmed cases. Keep in mind that each community is adhering to its state’s health and safety protocols before enacting any changes.

                            Residents and Visitors

                            • Visiting in designated outdoor/indoor areas should continue at all times unless restricted by your state or due to active COVID cases. These areas will be sanitized and cleaned before and after each visit.
                              • Contractors/repair workers should be allowed into the community in accordance with visitor guidelines. They must limit their movements to the area being worked on.
                            • In-room visits should be suspended if:
                              • The COVID-19 county positive rate is more than 10%.
                              • Fewer than 70% of residents have been fully vaccinated.
                              • Resident(s) are in quarantine and/or have COVID-19.
                              • When both the resident and visitor are fully vaccinated, they can choose not to wear a mask while in the apartment or designated visiting area. The visitor must wear a mask at all other times while in the community.
                            • Move-ins, new residents and returning residents
                              • Fully vaccinated residents may move in without a quarantine, including moving into a shared apartment if the roommate is also fully vaccinated. Testing is still recommended during the move-in process in accordance with state guidelines.
                              • Residents are allowed to use movers when moving into a community. Family can perform this function.
                            • Culinary
                              • Residents are able to dine together at the same table if the community has 80% or more of residents fully vaccinated.
                            • Vibrant Life® activities
                              • Fully vaccinated residents do not have to quarantine upon return from an activity.
                              • Entertainers should be allowed in as part of our Vibrant Life® program. They must follow all visitor guidelines for screening, masks, social distancing, etc.
                              • If all residents participating in an activity are fully vaccinated, they can choose to have close contact and not wear a mask.
                            • Outings/Transportation
                              • If all residents on community transportation/vehicles are fully vaccinated, they can choose to have close contact and can choose to not wear a mask.
                            • Travel
                              • Fully vaccinated residents do not have to quarantine after traveling as long as they are not symptomatic. This includes air travel.

                            Associates

                                • Vaccine Mandate
                                  • Associates are required to receive the vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) by July 1.
                                • Screening Form addition
                                  • Fully vaccinated associates and essential visitors are required to complete a screening form.
                                • Quarantine guidelines
                                  • Per the CDC, fully vaccinated associates and health care professionals do not have to quarantine following a COVID-19 exposure.
                                • Testing
                                  • Fully vaccinated associates do not have to be tested after an exposure. This is consistent with current CDC guidance.
                                  • Fully vaccinated associates should not be subject to routine testing unless they are symptomatic, or the community is experiencing an outbreak. Keep in mind that some states (such as California) have yet to adopt this guidance.
                                • Travel
                                  • Fully vaccinated associates do not have to quarantine after traveling as long as they are not symptomatic. This includes air travel.

                            April 16

                            Based on the current recommendations from the CDC, we have updated a few of our COVID policies to reflect these recent changes.

                            • Fully vaccinated residents and associates do not have to quarantine after traveling as long as they are not symptomatic. This includes air travel.
                            • People are considered fully vaccinated following a two-week period after receiving the second dose in a two-dose series or the single-dose vaccine.

                            April 15

                            As you have likely heard, the CDC and FDA have temporarily paused administration of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine due to extremely rare but serious blood clots. These blood clots occurred in six people out of the 6.8 million doses administered so far. The decision to pause the vaccine was done out of an abundance of caution. The CDC and FDA are currently reviewing the information on these six occurrences and what recommendations they might make for the J&J vaccine going forward.

                            Fortunately, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are still available and being administered to millions of people in the U.S. every day. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines use a different design than the J&J vaccine, and have not been associated with the clotting issues. Per CDC guidance, we ask that you get vaccinated as soon as possible with whatever vaccine manufacturer is available to you.

                            We are of course concerned about the impact this might have on the willingness of individuals to be vaccinated. Linked here is a brief FAQ document to try and to provide clear and simple answers to what we know thus far. The official CDC release can be found here

                            April 1

                            As COVID-19 restrictions continue to loosen and our communities continue to slowly reopen, we have a few changes to our visitors policy.

                            • Contractors/repair workers should be allowed into the community in accordance with visitor guidelines. They must limit their movement to the area being worked on.
                            • Residents are allowed to use movers when moving into a community. Family can perform this function.
                            • Entertainers should be allowed in as part of our Vibrant Life® They must follow all visitor guidelines for screening, masks, social distancing, etc.

                            March 18

                            The COVID-19 vaccine has continued to successfully make its way to our SSL communities. As a result of many states’ revising their visitation guidelines, we’ve adjusted our visitor and group activity protocols for communities that do NOT have confirmed cases. Keep in mind that each community is adhering to its state’s health and safety protocols before enacting any changes.

                            Residents/Visitors

                            • Visitors in designated outdoor/indoor areas should continue at all times unless restricted by your state or due to active COVID cases. These areas will be sanitized and cleaned before and after each visit.
                            • In-room visits should be suspended if:
                              • The COVID-19 county positive rate is more than 10%.
                              • Fewer than 70% of residents have been fully vaccinated.
                              • Resident(s) are in quarantine and/or have COVID-19.
                            • Move-ins, New Residents and Returning Residents
                              • A fully vaccinated resident does not have to quarantine upon move-in or return, but must still be tested.
                            • Culinary
                              • Residents are able to dine together at the same table if the community has 80% or more of residents fully vaccinated.
                            • Vibrant LifeⓇ Activities
                              • Fully vaccinated residents do not have to quarantine upon return from an activity.

                            Associates

                            • Screening Form Addition
                              • Fully vaccinated associates and essential visitors are required to complete a screening form.
                            • Quarantine Guidelines
                              • Per the CDC, fully vaccinated associates and health care professionals do not have to quarantine following a COVID-19 exposure.
                            • Testing
                              • Fully vaccinated associates do not have to be tested after an exposure. This is consistent with current CDC guidance.

                            March 8

                            To Our Texas Family of Associates, Residents and Families ~

                            By now, I’m sure you’ve heard that Texas Governor Greg Abbott has lifted the mask mandate and removed capacity limits for restaurants and other public places of business. I wanted to reach out to you and explain how this order pertains to our communities.

                            The governor’s Executive Order does still place restrictions on senior living communities, specifically stating:

                            “Nursing homes, state supported living centers, assisted living facilities, and long-term care facilities should follow guidance from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) regarding visitations, and should follow infection control policies and practices set forth by HHSC.”

                            At this time, the Texas HHSC has not posted new guidance based on the governor’s Executive Order. For that reason, we will still require associates, residents and visitors to wear masks at our communities. I assure you that we will reevaluate our protocols as soon as they release more information pertaining to senior living communities.

                            We are encouraged by the positive impact we are seeing from the COVID-19 vaccine efforts and the tremendous participation in our communities and around the country. The hope is to open our communities to families and visitors and reestablish full culinary and Vibrant Life® programs as soon as possible, but we must continue to follow the guidance from the CDC and HHSC in order to keep our communities as safe as possible.

                            You can read the full Executive Order here.

                            As always, please let your Executive Director or me know if you have questions or concerns. We can definitely see the light at the end of the tunnel, but we must remain vigilant in the fight against this virus!

                            Sincerely,
                            Collette Gray
                            President/CEO
                            Solstice Senior Living

                            February 26

                            Residents and associates at Grapevine celebrated receiving the vaccine with a "KISS COVID goodbye" vaccine clinic. Check out the blog here and the pictures below.
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                            February 25

                            Residents and associates at Santa Rosa received the vaccine. Check out the story here. 

                            February 9

                            Residents at Columbia received the vaccine. Check out the story here and the photos below.
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                            February 9

                            Residents at Normandy Park received the vaccine. Check out the photos and video below.
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                            February 8

                            Residents at Renton received the vaccine. Check out the photos below.
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                            February 1

                            Residents at Corpus Christi received the vaccine. Check out the photos below and read the story here.
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                            January 21

                            Residents and associates at Mesa View received the vaccine. Check out the photos from the clinic.
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                            January 21

                            Residents and associates at Grand Valley received the vaccine. Check out the photos and story from the clinic.
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                            January 20

                            Owner Sue Farrow and President/CEO Collette Gray share their personal reasons as to why they are receiving the COVID-19 vaccine in the hopes to inspire others to do the same.

                            January 13

                            The associates and residents at Solstice at Bellingham received the COVID-19 vaccine. Check out the photos from the clinic.

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                            December 21

                            We have restructured this website to address the questions and information you are seeking in regard to the COVID-19 vaccine. Below are some important changes to note:

                            • Resident and Family information have been combined into one page.
                            • We now have a dedicated Vaccine page that is updated as we receive information about the vaccine.
                            • The FAQs offer two options: COVID-19 FAQs and COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs.

                            If you have any questions about how COVID-19 and/or the COVID-19 vaccine affects your community, please reach out to your executive director.


                            December 18

                            We recognize that our residents want to celebrate the holidays with their friends and family. Below are a few scenarios that we’ve outlined and the various safety and health protocols that we suggest for each situation. We strongly encourage communities to continue following local and state health department guidelines.

                            • Celebrations in the Community
                              • Use technology (FaceTime, phone calls, video chats, etc.) to virtually celebrate with friends and family.
                              • We encourage loved ones to arrange visits at the community (in accordance with our policies) so that they may celebrate the holidays together.
                              • Our visiting areas will be festively decorated to put everyone in the holiday mood.
                              • Coordinate holiday meals, drinks and desserts with visitors.
                                • We will utilize a reservation schedule to coordinate visits.
                                • We will have designated visiting areas inside/outside the community based on state and local guidance.
                                • Do not permit large group gatherings or communal dining.

                            • Residents Returning Home With Loved Ones for Holidays
                              • Encourage family members to follow the health and safety measures enforced at the community.
                              • After returning to the community, monitor residents for signs and symptoms every shift for 14 days.
                              • It may be necessary to quarantine and/or be tested upon return based on local guidance and policies.

                            December 7

                            As communities continue moving into different reopening phases, we wanted to provide the over-arching guidelines as they apply to activities, outings and outdoor time. We strongly encourage communities to continue following local and state health department guidelines.

                            • Activities
                              • Suspend group activities in community if there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the past 14 days.
                              • In order to socially distance residents during activities, limit the number of residents per session and ensure they stay 6 feet apart and wear facemasks (couples and spouses do not have to stay 6 feet apart).
                              • Properly disinfect and clean supplies between sessions.
                              • No visiting activity groups (outside performers or volunteers) are permitted.
                              • Discontinue in-person family nights and large gatherings. Consider making these virtual instead.
                            • Outings
                              • Residents should limit trips outside of the community. No large group activities should be held outside of the community.
                              • When leaving the community, residents should wear facemasks.
                            • Outdoor Time
                              • When coordinating outdoor time, make sure to limit the number of residents, encourage social distancing and enforce the usage of facemasks.
                              • If a resident requires physical assistance or supervision, staff members are able to assist with facemasks.
                              • Sanitize benches and outdoor surfaces during routine cleaning and disinfection times.
                              • Encourage residents to sanitize/wash hands before and after outdoor time.

                            November 20

                            As we continue to accept new move-ins and monitor returning residents to our communities, there are a few key protocols to keep in mind. We strongly encourage communities to continue following local and state health department guidelines.

                            Requirements for New Move-ins:

                            1. Assess the health of the resident prior to move-in.
                            2. Screen resident for any signs, symptoms and exposure to COVID-19. This includes obtaining a negative COVID-19 test.
                            3. New residents cannot share an apartment unless it is with their spouse/partner.
                            4. Continue to monitor new residents for signs and symptoms every shift for 14 days.
                            5. Enforce visiting, dining, activities and social distancing restrictions.

                            Requirements for Residents Returning From Higher Level of Care:

                            1. Screen resident for any signs, symptoms and exposure to COVID-19. This includes obtaining a negative COVID-19 test.
                            2. Continue to monitor residents for signs and symptoms every shift for 14 days.

                            Requirements for Residents Returning From a Visit to a Health Care Provider:

                            1. Screen resident for any signs, symptoms and exposure to COVID-19.
                            2. Continue to monitor residents for signs and symptoms every shift for 14 days.

                            Requirements for Residents Returning From an Outing:

                            1. Encourage residents and family members to limit outings unless medically necessary.
                            2. If gone overnight, resident will be quarantined and tested upon return.
                            3. Screen resident for any signs, symptoms and exposure to COVID-19.
                            4. Continue to monitor new residents for signs and symptoms every shift for 14 days.

                            October 26

                            As we begin to lift visitor restrictions, we want to reiterate our visitor plans and share protocol updates. As always, our communities will continue to follow state and local guidelines and will continue to conduct COVID screenings for all visitors and enforce social distancing guidelines.

                            Essential Visits: Necessary Medical Personnel and Compassionate Care Situations

                            Visitors must:

                            • Wear a mask or appropriate PPE gear
                            • Limit visit to the resident’s apartment and not interact with other residents
                            • Avoid common areas and overcrowding the resident’s apartment

                            Non-Essential Visits

                            These visits may occur if:

                            • There have been no cases of COVID-19 in the past 14 days
                            • Visitors wear face masks
                            • They have been scheduled in advanced
                            • Outdoor and indoor visiting areas have been designated
                            • Communities have adequate cleaning and testing supplies. Visiting areas must be cleaned and disinfected between each visit
                            • The number of visitors and residents is at a manageable number
                            • Visitors do not participate in small group dining or activities

                            Select states are allowing essential family members, caregivers and close friends to visit residents. Watch this training video for what visitors should expect before and upon arrival at a community: https://vimeo.com/463909405/a152d8cf6f.

                            As a reminder, we recommend using technology (FaceTime, Zoom, etc.) to keep in touch with your loved ones. We also have hand sanitizer readily available at all entrances and have posted our visitor policies and plans throughout each community.


                            October 8

                            Our Solstice Senior Living president and CEO, Collette Gray, had the privilege of attending a call with Vice President Mike Pence on Oct. 2 for assisted living and nursing home providers to assess the distribution efforts of rapid point-of-care tests, the imminent relief from the Provider Relief Fund, and other strategies by the administration such as the allotment of additional PPE from the national stockpile.

                            Vice President Pence was very appreciative toward all the providers on the call for their nonstop dedication to protecting America’s senior population and shared his acclaim for the staff of long-term care communities working on the front lines. He wants to continue to strengthen his relationship with the long-term care community as a COVID-19 vaccine continues to be developed.


                            September 21

                            Select communities are resuming in-person tours. Depending on the reopening phase of the community, tours may occur within 30 days of a prospect’s scheduled move-in date. Below are the four phases and their respective rules in regard to in-person tours. Before a community progresses to the next phase, tours must be put on pause for at least two weeks to avoid a resurgence in symptoms or cases. We always follow national, state and local guidance. If you have a question about what phase a community is in, please contact the Executive Director.

                            Red

                            • Virtual tours only.
                            • Essential visits (home health, hospice, end-of-life/compassion care, etc.) are allowed.

                            Orange – Tours may occur for prospects planning to move in within 30 days.

                            • Screening, social distancing and mask policies must be followed at all times.
                            • Tour should last no longer than an hour and have no more than three people in a group.
                            • The tour group should not come in contact with residents and should limit contact with associates.
                            • Tours should occur at times that will reduce contact with residents.
                            • Tours will not be given of common areas (dining room, salons, etc.) and will focus solely on the apartment(s) being considered. Apartment(s) must be vacant.

                            Yellow – Tours may occur for prospects without a definite move-in date.

                            • Screening, social distancing and mask policies must be followed at all times.
                            • Tour should last no longer than an hour and have no more than three people in a group.
                            • The tour group should not come in contact with residents and should limit contact with associates.
                            • Tours should occur at times that will reduce contact with residents.
                            • Tours will not be given of common areas (dining room, salons, etc.) and will focus solely on the apartment(s) being considered. Apartment(s) must be vacant.

                            Green

                            • Tours may resume to full operation without restrictions.

                            August 31

                            It is clear that COVID-19 is not going away anytime soon. We are anxiously waiting for the news that a vaccine has been approved. Until that day comes, we are committed to seeking out innovative ways to create a new normal within our communities. We continue to bolster our safety protocols to ensure the health and well-being of our residents. Our residents and associates will always be our top priority.

                            Thermal Scanners: Thermal scanners have been ordered for all communities and allow us to take the temperatures of associates and residents without contact and provide extremely accurate results.

                            Genesis Health System Partnership: We have a partnership with Genesis Health System, which is a national provider of COVID-19 tests. Through this partnership, your community should have no problems getting enough test kits and results in a timely manner. It is important to note that we are doing a lot of testing throughout our communities, which in turn leads to more positive cases due to asymptomatic residents and associates. We are proud to be able to test quickly and often to ensure we stop the spread within communities.


                            August 14

                            As we continue to battle COVID-19, we are continuing to bolster our protocols to ensure the safety of our residents and associates. Several of our communities have recently acquired an electrostatic disinfectant sprayer, which emits charged droplets that adhere the chemicals to a surface, allowing for 360-degree coverage. They also use 70% less chemicals than standard handheld spray bottles. Contact your Executive Director to learn more about the ways we’re working to keep our communities safe

                            July 15

                            California Gov. Gavin Newsom has ordered the immediate closure of indoor activities in the following sectors:

                            • Dine-in operations (Restaurant and bars)
                            • Wineries and tasting rooms
                            • Movie theaters
                            • Entertainment centers (bowling alleys, arcades, miniature golf and batting cages)
                            • Zoos and museums
                            • Cardrooms

                            This is to help eliminate the gathering of people in 30 counties. The governor’s order went into effect immediately and lasts for at least three weeks.

                            This means that, effective immediately and for at least the next three weeks, the communities listed below will need to move to “Red” phase (full COVID-19 protocols) for culinary and Vibrant Life®. The only exception to this is if a community can accommodate outdoor dining and outdoor Vibrant Life® activities. Both would require groups of 10 or fewer and the continuous maintaining of 6-foot social distancing.

                            For communities that can’t accommodate outdoor dining or activities, we will be serving all meals in residents’ apartments and bringing activities to our residents to keep them active and engaged during this time.

                            Here is the link to Gov. Newsom’s announcement for your reference:

                             https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAhPX1nz5r0

                            Solstice communities affected: Apple Valley, Bakersfield, Clovis, Lodi and Santa Rosa.

                            Please contact your Executive Director if you have questions about what to expect at your community.


                            July 4

                            California Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered the immediate closure of indoor dining to eliminate the gathering of people in 19 counties. The governor’s order went into effect immediately and lasts for at least three weeks.

                            This means that, effective immediately and for at least the next three weeks, the communities listed below will need to move to “Red” phase (full COVID-19 protocols) for culinary and Vibrant Life®. The only exception to this is if a community can accommodate outdoor dining and outdoor Vibrant Life® activities. Both would require groups of 10 or fewer and the continuous maintaining of 6-foot social distancing.

                            For communities that can’t accommodate outdoor dining or activities, we will be serving all meals in residents’ apartments and bringing activities to our residents to keep them active and engaged during this time.

                            Here is the link to Governor Newsom’s announcement yesterday for your reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ao9k0ibmhtc

                            Solstice communities affected: Apple Valley, Bakersfield, Clovis and Lodi.

                            Please contact your Executive Director if you have questions about what to expect at your community.


                            June 24

                            As restrictions lessen for us both inside and outside of our communities, we are asking associates to continue to keep the health and safety of our residents and fellow associate as a top priority. We recently shared the letter linked below with all associates containing suggestions to consider when outside their community. Please feel free to reach out to your Executive Director with any questions.

                            Letter to Associates


                            June 12

                            We are watching state and local recommendations for reopening our communities. We have a phased approach in place that allows for safely restarting outdoor and group activities, opening the dining rooms and salons, and eventually allowing visitors and trips outside the community.

                            The safety and health of our associates and residents continues to be our top priority. This is a slow process, and we will consider every community’s situation before starting the opening phases. We will go back to all COVID-19 protocols if a confirmed case is discovered in any community. If you have questions about your community’s reopening plan, please contact your Executive Director.


                            April 22

                            We wanted to share some recent updates from our partner Allen Flores Consulting Group in regard to how we care for our residents and associates.

                            • Change in Screening Tools
                              • The CDC has expanded the list of symptoms associated with COVID-19. These are general symptoms often found in respiratory infections and can be subtle signs that are found typically in older adults, such as muscle aches, malaise and diarrhea. We have noted these new symptoms in our COVID-19 Screening Log to be shared with associates.
                            • Activities and Outings
                              • Per the CDC, we recommend that residents wear a facemask when leaving the community for necessary medical appointments and other outings.
                              • Associates should facilitate residents’ time spent outside to make sure proper social distancing is being observed.
                            • Associate Care
                              • Per the CDC, if an associate tested positive for COVID-19 but showed no symptoms, they can return to work in 10 days.

                            April 17

                            Yesterday, President Trump unveiled a plan for governors to utilize as states begin to reopen. The first two phases of this plan ask for the continued restriction of visitors to senior care communities. As a result, we will continue to monitor federal, state and local government recommendations, while keeping our protective protocols in place.

                            For more information about how we are protecting our residents and associates, please continue to scroll through the updates below. To read more about President’s Trump guidelines, visit https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/.


                            April 6

                            President Trump issued a stay-at-home directive until the end of April. As this virus spreads and more hot spots pop up, we felt it was best to go ahead and close all dining rooms and cancel group activities effective immediately. We’ve implemented room-service delivery to all residents using disposable products.

                            Our National Director of Resident Programming has been sharing regular updates with teams to be sure they have what they need to engage residents in their apartments. We certainly understand the importance of keeping residents involved during this time and are taking it very seriously. We asked all communities to be creative with staffing, so we have all hands on deck. One example is asking the culinary team to help with activities when they are not serving meals.

                            In addition, we wanted to reiterate some important changes from Allen Flores Consulting.

                            1. Residents and/or associates will be quarantined for 14 days upon returning from a hospital or SNF visit.

                            2. The CDC has provided two travel updates:

                            a. New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are under travel advisories. “Due to extensive community transmission of COVID-19 in the area, CDC urges residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to refrain from non-essential domestic travel for 14 days effective immediately.” You can view the advisory here: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s038-travel-advisory.html

                            b. CDC travel guidance now says: “All international travelers should stay home for 14 days after returning from travel, monitor their health, and practice social distancing.” You can view this here: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-global

                            3. The fever threshold has changed. CDC guidance on risk assessment references a fever of 100.0 F, so we recommend lowering to that number from the previously recommended 100.4. You can view that guidance page here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-risk-assesment-hcp.html

                            4. The CDC recommends that people should wear a cloth face cover in public settings where social distancing measures are not able to be maintained.

                            a. In addition, we are asking that all associates and visitors wear face masks while in the community.

                            b. N95 respirators are recommended during contact with residents with suspected or known COVID-19. If there is a limited supply of respirators, a disposable surgical/isolation face mask is acceptable.


                            March 30

                            Based on guidance from state and local health departments and based on how widespread COVID-19 cases are, we have updated our self-isolation policy. Starting immediately, we will be requiring residents who choose to leave the community, for any reason, to self-isolate in their apartments for 14 days and wear a mask anytime an associate enters their apartment.

                            We continue to monitor and follow all the directives of state and local governments, including executive orders of governors, mayors and health departments. Many of these directives require people to stay in their homes to help prevent the spread of the virus.

                            We are still limiting visitors in all our communities. The only visitors allowed at this time are medical providers and for end-of-life situations. They are being screened for symptoms and having their temperature taken and recorded. This applies to our associates too, before they begin their shifts.

                            Out of an abundance of caution, we are implementing a self-isolation/quarantine protocol for any resident who leaves the community.

                          • Residents returning from a hospital or rehabilitation admission will be required to self-isolate in their apartment for 14 days. We will ask residents to wear a mask anytime one of our associates is in their apartment.
                          • Residents returning from an emergency department or urgent care visit will be required to self-isolate in their apartment for 14 days. If the visit was for respiratory illness, the resident will self-isolate in their apartment and remain in it until 14 days WITHOUT symptoms. We will ask residents to wear a mask anytime one of our associates is in their apartment.
                          • If a resident chooses to leave the community to spend the weekend with their family, or they go shopping or run errands, they will be required to self-isolate in their apartments for 14 days and wear a mask anytime an associate enters their apartment.

                            The policies listed above were put in place out of an abundance of caution as an additional measure to help keep the virus out of our communities. If ANY resident or associate displays symptoms of COVID-19, they will be immediately placed under full isolation protocols. .


                          • March 24

                            We continue to monitor and follow all the directives of state and local governments, including executive orders of governors, mayors and health departments. Many of these directives require people to stay in their homes to help prevent the spread of the virus.

                            We are still limiting visitors in all our communities. The only visitors allowed at this time are medical providers and for end-of-life situations. They are being screened for symptoms and having their temperature taken and recorded. This applies to our associates too, before they begin their shifts.

                            Out of an abundance of caution, we are implementing a self-isolation/quarantine protocol for any resident who leaves the community.

                            • Residents returning from a hospital or rehabilitation admission will be required to self-isolate in their apartment for seven days. We will ask residents to wear a mask anytime one of our associates is in their apartment.
                            • Residents returning from an emergency department or urgent care visit for a condition unrelated to respiratory infection will be required to self-isolate in their apartment for 72 hours. We will ask residents to wear a mask anytime one of our associates is in their apartment.
                            • Residents returning from an emergency department or urgent care visit for respiratory illness will resume self-isolation in their apartment and remain in it until 72 hours WITHOUT symptoms. We will ask residents to wear a mask anytime one of our associates is in their apartment.
                            • If a resident chooses to leave the community to spend the weekend with their family, or they go shopping or run errands, they will be required to self-isolate in their apartments for seven days and wear a mask anytime an associate enters their apartment.
                            • We will not keep our Generations residents isolated in their apartments. They will still be able to move about the Generations neighborhood, but we will isolate Generations and not allow crossover of associates from other departments into Generations.

                            We recognize that the full incubation period for COVID-19 is 14 days. The policies listed above were put in place out of an abundance of caution as an additional measure to help keep the virus out of our communities. If ANY resident or associate displays symptoms of COVID-19, they will be immediately placed under full isolation protocols.

                            Resident Letter


                            March 22

                            Update for California Communities
                            The health and safety of our residents is our top priority. In each of our California communities, we are closely following the directives of Governor Newsom, the state department of health and the local health departments. No visitors are allowed into our communities at this time. The only exceptions will be for a medical necessity or end-of-life visits. We are recommending that residents and their family members “visit” via FaceTime, Skype, phone calls, cards and letters. For more information about how we are protecting our residents during this time, please visit our website. https://ssl-updates.com/

                            March 21

                            As our country deals with the employment loss due to COVID-19, we wanted to announce that we are looking to add to our team. We are a national company with senior living communities in 20 states and have multiple career opportunities available that may be a perfect fit for you or a friend. Please visit our career site at https://www.solsticeseniorlivingcareers.com/  to view our current openings. If you do not find an opportunity, feel free to email our recruiting team directly at employment@islllc.com or text SSL to 85000.

                            March 20

                            Update for New York Communities

                            Today, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered that all workers in nonessential businesses across the state are required to stay home in an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Our associates will be allowed to drive to and from work as they are considered essential service employees, and play a vital role in caring for our residents.

                            In addition, the governor is ordering people over 70 or those with underlying medical conditions to remain indoors and only go outside for solitary exercise.

                            Since these orders directly impact our residents and associates, we are not allowing visitors except those providing medical assistance and end-of-life care. Please call the Executive Director of the community that you or your loved one is a part of if you have any questions. For more information about this Executive Order, visit https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home.

                            Update for Illinois Communities

                            Today, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a stay-at-home order in an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Our associates will be allowed to drive to and from work as they are considered essential service employees, and play a vital role in caring for our residents.

                            Since these orders directly impact our residents and associates, we are not allowing visitors except those providing medical assistance and end-of-life care. Please call the Executive Director of the community that you or your loved one is a part of if you have any questions. For more information about this order, visit https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/coronavirus/Pages/default.aspx..


                            March 17

                            As you know, we have been monitoring the spread and growth of coronavirus and the ways it could affect our communities. While we still do not have any confirmed cases in any of our communities, we have begun to take extra precautions because the health and safety of our residents is our top priority.

                            We will no longer be accepting visitors, except for in end-of-life situations. Please call the Executive Director of the community that you or your loved one is a part of if you have any questions.


                            March 15

                            We are taking every precautionary step to protect the health and safety of our residents and associates. We do not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our communities. We are limiting visitors to residents’ immediate family members and their medical providers. In addition, we will be implementing a new screening tool that will include taking the temperatures of all visitors and associates who enter the community. No tours will be offered at any of our communities. If you had a tour planned, please use the virtual tour available on the community’s website. If you were planning to move into the community in the next few weeks, please contact the Executive Director. Thank you for your patience and understanding.


                            March 14

                            Video: Thank you to our associates


                            March 12

                            We are committed to keeping our residents, families and associates informed with any updates pertaining to the health and safety measures being taken in our communities.