During this health crisis, the situation in nursing homes was more than concerning. However, the Villa Medicis group (nine residences in France) managed to handle the situation successfully. Concerned about the health of their residents, the staff is prepared in case of a second wave.
Lionel de Vasselot is the deputy director of this large organization. He had anticipated the arrival of the coronavirus a week before the government announcements. Warned by doctors about the first cases in Strasbourg, he immediately took action: “This allowed us to order the necessary stocks before shortages. As a result, we didn’t lack anything. All our residents had to wear a mask as soon as they left their apartment.”
In this way, the complex was able to provide its residents with the masks and hand sanitizers necessary for their protection. The majority of residents and families cooperated and accepted the preventive measures: confinement, masks, social distancing… Instances of refusal were anecdotal: “It is true that, very rarely, it was complicated. Some elderly people, with a lot of life experience, wanted us to let them live. But even they eventually understood that these measures are necessary. To help them, we hired psychologists during the lockdown. We also organized small activities in restricted circles. This allowed them to cope.” No cases of coronavirus were detected among the residents and employees. Families are now grateful, aware of the effort made to protect their loved ones: “We received several thank-you notes from families. It brings great pleasure and boosts the morale of our teams.”
And in case of a second wave?
“I don’t know if there will be a second wave, I’m not a scientist. But one thing is certain, if it were to happen, we would be ready.” Stocks of masks and sanitizers are still available. The teams, although exhausted, would be able to handle things better, having already experienced the situation. A positive aspect is the use of the Internet. Residents have learned to use new technologies, which would allow them to stay in touch with their loved ones: “During the lockdown, the residents learned to use Skype, Zoom… Families who rarely visited Villa were then in contact every day. It’s as if COVID-19 allowed a bond to be recreated. A bad thing for some good!”
