When my boys were young and didn’t like something, they would call a “do-over.” I want a do-over of 2020. It’s been a hard year for everyone. We’re all wearing masks, washing our hands incessantly and standing a lot further apart. COVID-19 has changed everyone’s lives and Blue Skies of Texas is not exempt. What has not changed is our deep commitment to improve lives by providing exceptional retirement living. We’re doing things differently, doing what it takes to keep our residents safe and secure.
Blue Skies of Texas has always been known for the “aggressive friendliness” of our residents. Guests are often stopped by residents who explain why they moved here and why they love it so much. You’ll still see that friendliness today as new residents continue to move into our community in spite of the coronavirus. In fact, a number of residents actually accelerated their move-in dates because they felt safer and better cared for living at Blue Skies.
Many of the seventy different resident activities have migrated to smaller groups, gone on-line or ventured outdoors. When necessary, we delivered meals, medications or whatever was needed to each resident’s door daily. Today, we’re serving meals out of our dining rooms, but we’ve limited in-person dining until the pandemic subsides, so meals are taken “to go”.
Our residents have remained safe and secure during the pandemic. With almost one thousand residents at two locations in San Antonio, less than 10 have contracted COVID-19 since the outbreak began in January 2020. Our staff insists on rigorous compliance with CDC precautions and our residents play a key role in protecting themselves and each other.
It is safe to visit Blue Skies of Texas. Prospective residents follow strict COVID-19 precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. They tour our facilities, safely meet with current residents, and get a deeper understanding of what it means to join the Blue Skies family.
It is hard to believe, but coronavirus has brought out the best in our residents; they’re finding new ways to socialize, care for each other and enjoy life to the fullest. Each day, they prove why Blue Skies is a very special place.
Sincerely,
Darrell D. Jones
Lt Gen, USAF (Ret)
President and CEO
Blue Skies of Texas
There are four locations to get the most up-to-date information about Blue Skies of Texas’ coronavirus precautions. First, our website has been updated with a special tab entitled “Coronavirus” with frequently asked questions (FAQs). Second, residents can turn to our local cable channel 1890, part of the Spectrum basic service provided free to all residents. Third, updates are being provided via video presentations on the in-house channel; and fourth, information is regularly emailed to residents and a hard copy of the information is available at the 24/7 concierge desk located at each campus.
On November 28th, 2020, the Blue Skies’ campuses closed to visitors as a COVID-19 precaution. Select marketing guests are still permitted to visit because they only tour the campus accompanied by a sales counselor.
Under normal circumstances, visitors are always welcome at Blue Skies; however, depending on the severity of COVID-19 in the surrounding area, the campus is sometimes closed to visitors to protect our residents. Caregivers are exempt from this rule. To find out the most current status, you should call the 24/7 concierge desk located at each campus:
East Campus: 210-673-2761 West Campus: 210-677-8666
Access to our licensed facilities is tightly controlled by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services (THHS). We have five licensed facilities at Blue Skies of Texas: Arnold House and Liberty House (assisted living), The Mission and The Vista (skilled nursing), and Freedom House (memory care). Access to all licensed facilities has been restricted during the pandemic. Visitation, with strict COVID-19 precautions, has been approved for these facilities and our staff works with families to ensure access while keeping their loved ones safe.
The CDC recommends that seniors avoid crowds and stay home as much as possible to reduce their risk of being exposed to coronavirus. While residents are free to leave at any time, we do encourage all residents to follow CDC guidelines when possible. It is also important to follow your doctor’s recommendations on whether or not to reschedule an appointment for a later date. If the appointment is necessary, Blue Skies of Texas will help coordinate transportation to the appointment.
The CDC recommends anyone returning from travel to a known coronavirus-affected area self-quarantine. Residents should contact the Wellness Department at their campus or the 24/7 concierge desk for the requirements of self-quarantine.
Yes, Blue Skies currently allows prospective residents to visit with advanced approval. We have implemented a marketing guest visitation policy that follows CDC recommendations. Please check with your sales counselor on current requirements.
Of course, new residents are always welcome! In fact, many have moved up their arrival date during COVID because they feel safer in our community. As new residents, you may be asked to self-quarantine upon arrival depending on where you arrive from. During that time, we will deliver meals and work with you to make your transition as smooth as possible. Once again, please speak with your sales counselor for the most current information.
Blue Skies of Texas adjusts safety precautions depending on the COVID-19 threat. In doing so, we have implemented all recommendations from the Centers for Decease Control (CDC), the Texas Department of Health and Human Services (THHS), and San Antonio Metro Health.
All employees and residents are wearing masks, washing their hands often and maintaining social distancing as recommended. In addition, each employee has their temperature taken and answers health risk questions each time they report to work. Large gatherings have been curtailed and many of our fitness classes and club activity has moved on-line. Our staff has introduced innovative ways to keep residents involved (like remote wine tasting) and outdoor activities are very popular (fitness classes, walking, biking, etc.).
Dining Services has modified the way they serve meals. Currently all meals can be picked up from the dining room or they can be delivered. In-house dining has been suspended and all meals are “to go.” At one point during the pandemic, we were delivering 1,000 meals a day with multiple options for hot and cold entrees, vegetarian selections and fruit and cheese options. In spite of COVID-19, Blue Skies residents are eating well and making the most of the situation. Our Chefs have been getting high praise for their efforts.
Anyone who has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or who is experiencing symptoms is asked to self-quarantine. Our Wellness Department closely follows these individuals to monitor their health and ensure they have everything they need (food, medications, etc.).
Our goal is to ensure our residents are safe and secure during the pandemic. Residents continually applaud their efforts and are very appreciative.