Local senior home throws a COVID-19 Vaccine Party for residents

Brookdale Senior Living Solutions received their first rounds of the covid-19 vaccine, and for residents and staff at this facility, today is a day of celebration.

At Brookdale Jackson Oaks, the health team threw a “kick covid-19” vaccine party for their senior residents.

”So we have completely decorated our dining room, it’s an enjoyable atmosphere, music is playing, we’ve got cupcakes, pizza is being delivered today,” said Cassie Duggin, Business Development Director.

Not only was today celebratory because of the vaccine, but it is also a sense of hope for the future.

“They are ready to return to some normalcy. You know this affected our senior population, especially those in settings such as here at Jackson oaks,” said Duggan.

For the past year, strict visitation rights were put on senior living homes. Residents like Dianne Maynard were only able to see their family members through a glass window or webcam.

“It’s been bad because I can’t hug them. Just pat the door, put our hands up at the door. It has been rough,” said Maynard.

Even though residents and staff began their first rounds of vaccines, the visitation restrictions remain the same, but Maynard is optimistic about having a little more freedom.

“But yeah, maybe we can have a little bit of freedom now, once everybody gets there. Hopefully,” said Maynard.

Since the pandemic came about, this is the first activity the Jackson Oaks’ residents have had in a while. The overall goal was to cheer them up during these challenging times.

“Although we are keeping them socially distanced and they’re still wearing their masks, we are still trying to bring fun and uplift their spirits and just make it all about the hope of covid going away,” said Duggin.

According to Duggin, about 90 percent of residents received the vaccine, and the next round will take place in February.