The Gardens Assisted Living in Jefferson has released its reopening plans to allow for in-person visitation with residents.

Director Brianne Fister says based on the guidance from the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Iowa Center for Assisted Living, there is a three-phased approach for them to work toward fully opening the facility to visitors. The facility has been closed since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first phase is allowing individuals into the facility for compassionate care such as end-of-life visits, window and virtual visits. The second phase lets visitors see loved ones that are nearing the end of their lives or experiencing significant changes in their health conditions. The final phase is a limited in-person visit that complies with the Gardens visitation policy.

Fister notes they are currently in the first phase. However, they have started allowing outdoor and open window visits with residents. These can be scheduled as a 30-minute time slot with outdoor visitation taking place between 9am and 1pm and 5-8pm. The time slots will allow for cleaning and social distancing to occur. 

Those wanting to see a resident through these options will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms, must wear a mask, and sanitize hands at the beginning and end of the visit. Fister asks that if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms following a visit to self-isolate and contact your healthcare provider. Call the Gardens at 515-386-2555 to schedule an outdoor or open window visit.