'Be the Light' Night 2024

Coronavirus Communication Update

Covid-19 Updates & Campus News

(January 4, 2022)

We have multiple updates for you today as we’re working to mitigate the spread of COVID during the surge of cases happening throughout the county that has resulted in an increase here on campus as well.

All Healthcare Center residents tested Monday, 1/3 alongside staff on both 100 and 200 and any unvaccinated staff.

We do not have all the test results back yet, but we do have additional staff positives to report. All newly positive staff members are at home and will remain in isolation until they are released by the health department.

Current SCV Case Count:

Healthcare Center

  • 1 Resident
  • 6 Staff

Friendship Towers

  • 1 Staff

Baunta

  • 1 Resident

Forest View

  • 0

*Note: Residents at Baunta and Forest View are not required to report their COVID status to SCV.

COVID Mitigation Steps

  • All Healthcare Center (SHC) residents and all staff (both regardless of vaccination status) will PCR test on Thursday, 1/6.
  • All Friendship Towers staff and residents (both regardless of vaccination) will PCR test this Thursday, 1/6.
  • In addition, any resident or staff member that is showing any sign or symptom will be tested both rapid and PCR test.
  • All Healthcare Center communal dining and group activities has been paused.
  • All staff are in N95 masks. No more than 2 in a break room at any time.
  • Stepped up cleaning and sanitization is taking place.
  • All residents are encouraged to wear masks when in hallways.
  • Out of an abundance of caution, we have reached out to request a strike team to relieve staffing challenges at the Healthcare Center. We don’t know if they will grant that request, but other communities are experiencing the same staffing challenges and requesting them now as well.
  • We have paused admissions at the Healthcare Center.

Guidance and Results

As you have no doubt seen on the news, guidance is fluid. We are doing our best to pivot and adapt quickly.

Going forward, we will be updating the website daily Monday – Friday (and on the weekend if there are updates) instead of email updates to allow our team to direct their time to resident care. Please watch for case count under the COVID Update on the website. As always, if your loved one is positive, we will reach out to the POA.

Thank you for your patience and grace as we start the new year putting our trust in the Lord and our energies into keeping your loved ones and our staff safe.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeramiah 29:11

(January 3, 2022)

Healthcare Center

On Monday, 1/3 we tested all residents and any unvaccinated staff. We hope to have those results as soon as possible considering the significant uptick in testing around the county due to return to work and school from the holidays. We anticipate those test results returning tomorrow.

We currently have 5 staff members positive (one was released today and a member of the therapy team has tested positive today) and 1 resident in isolation at Sayre Healthcare Center.

We will test all residents and any unvaccinated staff on Thursday, 1/6. We are not currently dining in the Life Enrichment Center and all staff have returned to N95 masks. We are hosting group activities, as long as residents can be reasonably socially distanced.

Friendship Towers

We have had one staff member test positive today. Contact tracing has determined that the case is from outside the community. The staff member is in isolation at home and will comply with the health department for release date.

We test all unvaccinated Friendship Towers staff on Mondays and in light of the uptick in local cases, we will start to test any unvaccinated staff on Thursdays also.  As of today Friendship Towers staff will start wearing N95 at all times. Any residents that reports not feeling well or has any cold/COVID like symptoms is rapid tested out of abundance of caution. We tested three residents today and all rapid tests have been negative.

Baunta

We have one staff member positive and one resident positive. Both cases can be traced to origins from outside the community.

(January 1, 2022)

We are glad to report that there are no new positive resident cases at the Healthcare Center.

All Unit 100 and 200 residents tested Thursday, alongside staff on both units and any unvaccinated staff. We had three resident lab tests that were lagging from the lab, and those have now returned negative as well.

Unfortunately, we do have 2 additional staff positives to report. They work on Unit 100 and 200. Both staff members are at home and will remain in isolation until they are released by the health department.

Our case count at the Healthcare Center is as follows: 

  • 1 Resident
  • 5 Staff 

Residents and staff on Unit 100, Unit 200, and any unvaccinated staff will test again on Monday, 1/3. In addition, any resident that is showing any sign or symptom will be tested over the weekend as well.

Please keep the residents and staff in your prayers as the positivity rate surges around us. I have hope for 2022 and am taking comfort in this song:

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—

“Great is Thy faithfulness,”

…..

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

(December 30, 2021)

Residents and staff on Unit 100, Unit 200, and any unvaccinated staff tested today, 12/30.

We have received all but 3 resident results back from the lab at this time. All residents on Unit 100 and 200 are negative so far.

We do have 2 new staff positives to report. They work on Unit 100 and 200. After contact tracing, we believe both cases to be community acquired and not from within the facility.

Both staff members are at home and will remain in isolation until they are released by the health department.

Residents and staff on Unit 100, Unit 200, and any unvaccinated staff will test again on Monday, 1/3. In addition, any resident that is showing any sign or symptom will be tested as well.

(December 29, 2021)

HEALTHCARE CENTER COVID UPDATE

We have a positive resident on Unit 100 that had a home visit on Christmas. Family alerted us that they had tested positive and the resident has now also tested positive. Resident is in a private room and will isolate in their room. We will follow CDC COVID protocol for infection prevention until the health department releases them from isolation.

Residents and staff on Unit 100 + any unvaccinated staff will test on Thursday, 12/29 and again on Monday, 1/3. All staff on Unit 100 will swap to N95s.

PRACTICE CAUTION AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

  • Masks are required for visitors and staff and encouraged for residents. Masks must remain over the nose at all times. 
  • If you feel you may have been exposed over the holiday, we encourage you to utilize the drive-thru testing option here at SCV before visiting.
  • Please don’t visit the Healthcare Center if you have ANY symptoms, regardless of if they seem like ‘just a cold.’

*The CDC has released new guidance for the the General Public and interim work restriction guidance for Health Care Professionals. 

NEW PHONE EXTENSIONS
We are thrilled to announce that recently one of our longtime staff members has been promoted to Unit Manager!

Chrissy Davis started her Sayre journey almost 20 years ago as a CNA and this year has won the LeadingAge Kentucky Nursing Excellence Award 2021. We couldn’t be more proud of her and are thankful for her loyal service to residents and families.

Extensions for Clinical Team (859) 271 – 9000  

  • Director of Nursing, Donna Maynard – 102
  • Assistant Director of Nursing, Teresa Hall – ext 189
  • Unit Manager for 400 and Wound Nurse, Ida Elliott – ext 153
  • Unit 100 Manager, Chrissy Davis – ext 157
  • Unit 200 Manager, Michelle Moss – ext 127
  • Unit 300 Manager, Lawrence Maynard – ext 108

(December 22, 2021)

Healthcare Center

Residents and staff on Unit 2 tested on Monday, 12/20. Lab results seem to be coming in slower due to increased testing from the local community as we near the holidays. Results showed no new staff or resident cases from Monday’s testing. 

However, a staff member’s husband tested positive and the staff member completed a rapid test today out of an abundance of caution. That staff member is positive. 

Because the staff member has worked on both Units 1 and 2 recently, we will continue to hold communal activities and dining, but keep the units separated. 

We will test all staff and residents on Units 1, 2, and 3 on Thursday, 12/23 out of an abundance of caution.

The case count at the Healthcare Center is 2 positive staff members.

HOLIDAY REMINDER

Please be diligent when taking residents for a home visit during the holidays.

  • Remind residents and everyone visiting to use good hand hygiene
  • Enjoy family gatherings of smaller groups in well-ventilated areas
  • Mask up when in public indoor spaces
  • Encourage visitors to stay home if they have been exposed or are having any symptoms that could put your loved one at risk

NO PAUSE IN VISITATION

Due to the new guidance, visitor restriction in NOT restricted during an outbreak, however we do stress that there are risks involved if you choose to visit during this time. 

(December 19, 2021)

Residents and staff on Unit 2 at the Healthcare Center will test on Monday, December 20th due to a positive staff member test result.

We will pause group activities and communal dining for Unit 2 out of an abundance of caution until we receive results from the Monday testing.

Due to the new guidance, visitor restriction in NOT restricted during an outbreak, however we do stress that there are risks involved if you choose to visit during this time.

(December 7, 2021)

Healthcare Center

Any unvaccinated Sayre Healthcare Center staff members were COVID tested on Monday, 12/6. All unvaccinated staff will test twice weekly while Fayette County is in the RED on the COVID incidence map. Results have all been returned and there are no new positives.

Please continue to wash your hands, wear a mask, and be mindful of large indoor gatherings as the positivity rate is on the rise. If you feel sick, please do not visit the campus, and instead set up a virtual visit with a member of the Life Enrichment Team.

(December 2, 2021)

Sayre Healthcare Center

A staff member at Sayre Healthcare Center reported a positive COVID test and is in quarantine. Because Fayette County is once again in the red on the COVID incidence map, all non-vaccinated staff will test on Friday and again on Monday.

(November 30, 2021)

We currently have no new positives from the tests at the Healthcare Center on Monday, 11/29. The prior positive residents have been released, praise the Lord!

Residents will resume dining in the Life Enrichment Center and communal activities at the Healthcare Center.

(November 28, 2021)

Residents and staff on Unit 100 will test again on Monday, 11/29.

(November 23, 2021)

Sayre Healthcare Center

Residents and staff on Unit 100 and Unit 200 at the Healthcare Center were tested Monday, 11/22.

  • No NEW positive residents
  • Currently 3 positive Unit 100 residents
  • 1 NEW positive staff member

COVID MITIGATION

Unit 200 will resume group activities and communal dining. Unit 400 has had no interruption in dining services or activities. We will continue to pause group activities and dining on Unit 100 and test again on Monday, 11/29.

Staff will remain in N95 masks as a precaution.

DRIVE-THRU TESTING & VISITATION

Due to the new guidance, visitors are NOT restricted during an outbreak, however we do stress that there are risks involved if you choose to visit during this time.

Several families have reached out to ask about holiday availability for the drive-thru testing site because they plan to gather as a family. Please be aware that the testing site will be closed on Thanksgiving day.

(November 22, 2021)

COVID testing is taking place today at the Healthcare Center due to two new positive residents on Unit 1 from the testing on 11/19.

The staff member that was positive on Unit 2 has been released by the Health Departments, leaving the current COVID case count at Sayre Healthcare Center at 3 residents on Unit 1. 

NO PAUSE IN VISITATION

Due to the new guidance, visitor restriction in NOT restricted during an outbreak, however we do stress that there are risks involved if you choose to visit during this time. 

(November 20, 2021)

Friendship Towers

Residents and staff in the assisted living memory care community have had 2 full rounds of PCR testing on 11/15 and 11/19.  We also PCR tested the hall that the positive resident resides on 11/12 as well, so that particular hall has had 3 rounds of PCR testing. We are confident that the case was caught early, infection control protocols were swift, and COVID has not spread. We will resume all normal activity in the assisted living memory care community. We appreciate how quickly the team moved to mitigate the spread!

(November 19, 2021)

Sayre Healthcare Center

Residents and staff on Unit 1 and Unit 2 at the Healthcare Center were tested today, 11/19. 

Results have come in and we do have 2 additional positive residents, both on Unit 1. We will cohort the residents and they will be under isolation precautions. 

Additionally, we will suspend group activities for Unit 1 out of an abundance of caution. We will pause communal dining in the Life Enrichment Center for everyone until we test again on Monday as well. 

All staff will also go back into N95 masks as a precaution. 

The current COVID case count at Sayre Healthcare Center is 3 residents on Unit 1 and 1 staff member on Unit 2.

NO PAUSE IN VISITATION

Due to the new guidance, visitor restriction in NOT restricted during an outbreak, however we do stress that there are risks involved if you choose to visit during this time. 

Assisted Living Memory Care


Due to the positive resident in the Memory Care Community, we tested all memory care residents and staff on the 3rd floor on Monday, 11/15. There were no new positive cases from that round of testing. 

 

Out an abundance of caution, we PCR tested all memory care residents and staff this morning again, 11/19.

 

We expect the results back within 24 hours and if there are any positive results, we will send out a communication. If there is no email this weekend, you can feel confident that all results were negative. 

(November 16, 2021)

HEALTHCARE CENTER

Residents and staff on Unit 1 and Unit 2 at the Healthcare Center were tested on 11/15 due to a positive staff member on each unit.

Results have come in and we do have a positive, asymptomatic resident on Unit 1. That resident is isolating in the room, due to the new guidance. 

 

The staff member that was positive on Unit 1 has been released from the Health Department, leaving the current COVID case count at Sayre Healthcare Center at one resident on Unit 1 and one staff member on Unit 2.

 

NO PAUSE IN VISITATION

Due to the new guidance, visitor restriction in NOT restricted during an outbreak, however we do stress that there are risks involved if you choose to visit during this time. 

 

ACTIVITIES & DINING

The new guidance states that activities and communal dining can also take place with no restriction, as long as the COVID positive case is isolated.

 

TESTING 

Staff members and residents on Unit 1 and Unit 2 will test again this Friday, 11/19. 

 

ONSITE TESTING FOR FAMILIES 

As families get together with loved ones over the holidays, folks start mixing households more at get-togethers, everyone is out doing their holiday shopping, please remember that we have a FREE onsite testing option for you for peace of mind. See below for more information. 

 

REMINDER: FAMILY COUNCIL IS TONIGHT 

I encourage you to join us tonight at Family Council. We’ll be located at Entrance 3 of the Healthcare Center (Therapy & HR entrance). There will be light bites and a chance to chat with me and other family members in person.

 

If you have any questions, please reach out to Penny Upton, VP Healthcare Services or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing. 

(November 15, 2021)

On Friday, 11/12/2021, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) announced new guidance as it relates to visitation in long term care facilities (QSO-20-39-NH REVISED (cms.gov).

NEW Visitation Guidance

We received the official guidance this morning and the long and short of the new guidance is that visitation is now permitted at any time for all residents, regardless of vaccination status, nursing home outbreak status, or implementation of quarantine and/or isolation precautions. 

In order to protect the health and safety of our residents, we will continue to adhere to the following CMS Core Principles of COVID-19 Infection Prevention:

  • Visitors who have a positive viral test for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or currently meet the criteria for quarantine, should not enter the facility.
  • Facilities should screen all who enter for these visitation exclusions.
  • Hand hygiene (use of alcohol-based hand rub is preferred)
  • Face covering or mask (covering mouth and nose) and physical distancing at least six feet between people, in accordance with CDC guidance
  • Instructional signage throughout the facility and proper visitor education on COVID[1]19 signs and symptoms, infection control precautions, other applicable facility practices (e.g., use of face covering or mask, specified entries, exits and routes to designated areas, hand hygiene)
  • Cleaning and disinfecting high-frequency touched surfaces in the facility often, and designated visitation areas after each visit
  • Appropriate staff use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Effective cohorting of residents (e.g., separate areas dedicated to COVID-19 care)
  • Resident and staff testing conducted as indicated by CMS and CDC guidance

These core principles are consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance for nursing homes, and should be adhered to at all times.

Visitation During an Outbreak Investigation

An outbreak investigation is initiated when we have a new COVID-19 case among residents or staff. 

When a new case of COVID-19 among residents or staff is identified, Sayre Healthcare Center will immediately begin outbreak testing in accordance with CMS and CDC guidelines.

While it is safer for visitors not to enter the facility during an outbreak investigation, visitors will still be allowed in the facility.

Visitors will be made aware of the potential risk of visiting during an outbreak investigation and adhere to the core principles of infection prevention.

Click (QSO-20-39-NH REVISED (cms.gov) to read the full guidance.

Questions

Sayre Christian Village will continue to commit to open and transparent communication with our residents, staff and family members.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Penny Upton, VP Healthcare Services or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing. 

(November 12, 2021)

Healthcare Center

Unit 1 residents at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID on Wed, 11/10 due to an employee testing positive on Tuesday, 11/9.

Results are finally back and no new positive cases to report from that round of testing.

However, a staff member at the Healthcare Center tested Thursday, 11/11 due to onset of symptoms and also close contact with community/positive case. That staff member from Unit 2 is positive. 

TESTING

All SHC residents and staff (regardless of vaccination status) on Unit 1 and Unit 2 will be PCR tested on Monday morning, 11/15.

Out an abundance of caution and in compliance with CDC guidance, we will need to test the same set residents and staff again later next Friday, 11/19.

VISITATION

We are suspending visitation on Unit 2 and we will continue to suspend visitation on Unit 1 until we get results back late Monday, 11/15. If no new cases, we will resume visitation on Tuesday, 11/16.

Thank you for your patience as we move swiftly to prevent the spread. If you have any questions, please reach out to Penny Upton, VP Healthcare Services or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing. 

Assisted Living Memory Care

A resident of the assisted living memory care community is COVID positive.

TESTING

The new guidance asks us to wait several days to test. We will test ALL assisted living memory care residents and staff on Monday, 11/15.

All staff in the assisted living memory care community are in N95 masks.

VISITATION

Visitation will be suspended for the assisted living memory care community until results from the PCR tests on Monday return and no new cases are identified.

Out of an abundance of caution, we will then test the same group on Friday, 11/19.

As always, thank you for your understanding and patience as we pivot to prevent the spread of COVID 19. If you have any questions, please reach out to Vicki Phillips or Bobby Greene.

If you are not getting COVID guidance updates from Sayre Christian Village and you believe their has been an error, please reach out to Elise Hinchman at with your first and last name and your updated email, phone, and mailing address, along with the name of your loved one. We want to make sure that we are communicating with everyone in the best way possible, so please let us know if anything has changed.

(November 10, 2021)

Healthcare Center

We have identified a staff member who has tested positive for COVID 19. Her last day worked in the facility was Thursday, 11/4/21. She began showing symptoms on Friday, 11/5/21 and tested positive on a PCR test on Tuesday 11/9/21. Through contract tracing we have identified possible exposure on Unit 1.

We will be testing all residents and staff on the potentially exposed Unit 1 today, 11/10/21. Per CDC guidelines, we will pause visitation pending the results of the PCR testing for staff & residents on Unit 1. Upon receiving those results, if no new positives are identified, we will resume visitation. Out of an abundance of caution, we will retest residents and staff that had potential exposure in 5-7 days.

Compassionate visits will continue. Please contact the facility for those arrangements.

As always, thank you for your understanding and patience as we continue to make every attempt to keep your loved ones and our staff healthy and safe.

(November 2, 2021)

Friendship Towers

A staff member at Friendship Towers has tested positive today. As a result, we are conducting contact tracing to determine the scope of resident testing that will take place later this week.

Friendship Towers team members have all donned N95 masks and will rapid test each morning in a ‘test to stay’ model.

We are thankful that most all our residents and staff at Friendship Towers are vaccinated and have had their boosters.

(October 25, 2021)

Flu & Covid Vaccine Clinics Today

Sayre Healthcare Center is hosting an onsite vaccination clinic today, 10/25/21, for Flu vaccines, Covid-19 boosters, and first or second dose Covid-19 vaccines.

Now that Fayette County has dropped from Red to Orange on the incidence map, the guidance is to test unvaccinated staff at the Healthcare Center 1 x per week. That testing is taking place today.

(October 22, 2021)

Praise the Lord!

Fayette County is now in the ORANGE on the COVID incidence map. The positivity rate in KY continues to go down. We are now below 7%!!!

Case Information
As of Thursday October 21, Kentucky reported the following COVID-19 numbers:
• Cases: 1,796
• Deaths: 53
• Positivity Rate: 6.53%

Flu Clinic at Healthcare Center

Sayre Healthcare Center is hosting an onsite vaccination clinic this MONDAY, 10/25/21, for Flu vaccines, Covid-19 boosters, and first or second dose Covid-19 vaccines.

(October 15, 2021)

NURSE ADMIN & SOCIAL SERVICES OFFICE MOVES

Our Social Services Directors Sarah Davis and Anissa Hubbard have moved back onto the units for easier access to them and for more natural interaction with residents and families during the day.

We are always working towards new processes that will allow us to provide the best care for our residents. 

You’ll notice that our Nursing Administration Team will be out on the unit floors instead of in a traditional office going forward. We believe that our team will be more nimble, able to assist their clinical team easier, and have an extra set of eyes on the residents in their care with this new move.

TESTING FREQENCY UPDATE

Residents and staff at the Healthcare Center tested on Monday, 10/11. All results were negative. All residents and staff tested again today, 10/14. So far, all but one resident result is pending and so far they are all negative!

If no new positives, we will drop to testing ONLY non-vaccinated staff members 2 x weekly.

When the county incidence map is no longer ‘red’, we can drop to testing non-vaccinated staff members 1 x weekly.

We are thrilled that the positivity rate continues to drop in Fayette County! 

DINING & ACTIVITIES

Communal meal service will go forward in the open and airy Life Enrichment Center!

We have also pivoted back to group activities and plan to have Chaplain Dale preaching on Sunday for our Healthcare Center residents. Praise the Lord! 

FLU VACCINE CLINIC

We will be partnering once again with MedSave Pharmacy on a high-dose flu vaccine clinic for our residents and staff. You will hear more about that in the coming days.

QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS

We WILL have an in-person Family Council on October 19, from 5-6 PM. Join us! Please reach out to ">Penny Upton or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing if you have any questions beforehand.

(October 12, 2021)

Residents and staff tested yesterday, 10/11 at the Healthcare Center. All results, aside from one resident, have come back and all are negative. The resident that has not had their result come back will be retested and sent out.

We are thankful today for the great test results, for visitors coming in and out of our doors, the dropping positivity rate throughout the county, and for the beautiful weather that allows our residents to soak up the Fall sunshine.

(October 9, 2021)

One staff member at the Healthcare Center has been released from quarantine by the health department. We did have a team member at Baunta Apartments that tested positive yesterday. This team member is quarantined at home and complying with health department protocols.

(October 7, 2021)

Residents and staff at the Healthcare Center tested today, 10/7. All resident results are in and there are no new cases. Most staff results are in and there are no new cases. Praise God!

*NEW* GUIDANCE FOR VISITATION

We have a lot to be grateful for today! In addition to no new cases, we have new guidance that gives a bit of leeway for visitation.

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services has given a new definition of “outbreak status.” Their new definition is as follows:

“Outbreak means 1 new COVID-19 case among facility staff or 1 new facility-onset case among residents. A resident who is admitted with a COVID-19 diagnosis or who is confirmed COVID-positive within 14 days of admission shall not be considered a facility-onset case or constitute an outbreak.”

NOTE: There are two positive employee listed on our COVID website update, however, those staff members did not have an opportunity to expose residents because they had not been in the building for weeks or were new and had not started shifts. Of course, we have to count those staff members as a ‘positive’, but those staff members do not count against us for visitation due to no exposure risk.

WHAT CHANGES?

The new resident that tested positive on 9/30 no longer leads to visitor restrictions in our latest case due to the new guidance. We can allow visitors in TOMORROW.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

WHAT STAYS THE SAME?

The new guidance doesn’t address several items, so many protocols will remain the same:

  • Positive resident will remain in COVID unit until released by health department.
  • All staff, regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear N95 masks and appropriate PPE at all times until 14 days since the most recent positive result.
  • Group activities and communal dining will remain suspended on Units 100 and 200 until 14 days since the most recent positive result.
  • All staff and residents will be retested every 3 to 7 days until testing identifies no new cases of COVID-19 infection among staff or residents for a period of at least 14 days since the most recent positive result.

Visitors must still wear appropriate PPE, maintain social distancing from other residents and staff, use appropriate hand hygiene, and scan and sign in at front desk. Visitors must remain in the resident’s room and not roam the hallways during visits.

VACCINE & NATURAL IMMUNITY TESTING

Sayre Healthcare resident results have come in. If you are interested in results from the testing, please reach out to Penny Upton, VP Healthcare Services or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing.

(October 6, 2021)

A new staff member at the Healthcare Center that had not been exposed to residents and had not had a shift yet tested positive. That staff member will be quarantined at home until released from the health department, but that staff member does not elongate our visitor restriction because of no exposure.

Testing for all residents and staff at the Healthcare Center takes place 10/7.

(October 5, 2021)

All results are in from testing at the Healthcare Center on Monday, 10/4 and there are no new positive test results.

Testing will take place again on Thursday, 10/7.

(October 4, 2021)

Testing at SHC

All staff and residents at the Healthcare Center tested today on Monday, 10/4, regardless of vaccine status. We have all but 4 resident results in at 6 PM and all so far are negative, aside from the prior positive resident.  

NOTE: There is one positive Sayre Healthcare Center employee listed on our COVID website update, however, that staff member was not in the building for several weeks and had no opportunity to expose anyone. However, we have to count that staff member as a ‘positive’, but that staff member does not count against us for visitation due to no exposure risk. 

Visitation at SHC

Infection Prevention 

  • Until we test out of outbreak status, these mitigation strategies will remain in place.
  • All staff regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear N95 masks and appropriate PPE at all times.
  • Group activities and communal dining will be suspended on Units 1 and 2.
  • All staff and residents will be retested every 3 to 7 days until testing identifies no new cases of COVID-19 infection among staff or residents for a period of at least 14 days since the most recent positive result (Thursday, 09/30/21).

Moving Forward 

CEO Karen Venis has reached out to our associations to push for amended guidance that would allow for leeway for indoor visitation for fully-vaccinated residents.

You all are in our thoughts and prayers daily as we navigate this new guidance. Please keep us in yours.

(September 30, 2021)

HEALTHCARE CENTER TEST RESULTS

As a result of today’s testing at the Healthcare center, we are reporting that 1 newly-admitted, fully-vaccinated resident has tested positive for COVID-19 on Unit 2. All resident results are back.

Out of an abundance of caution, we have moved the resident to the COVID Unit, notified the family and our medical director, Dr. Richard, and plan to PCR test this resident again tomorrow. The resident is fully-vaccinated and asymptomatic.

Employee results are still pending at this time. We will wait for the rest of the results to come in tomorrow and we will consult the guidance to determine next steps for communal dining, activities, and indoor visitation. 

COMMUNICATION

We will also continue to update our COVID-19 website landing page of our status changes and when we have new information to provide.  Please bookmark this page

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

FLU & COVID VACCINE CLINICS

Yesterday we partnered with Med-Save Pharmacy to administer over 200 COVID boosters and 200 flu vaccines to staff, residents on the Housing side, and 14 additional residents at Sayre Healthcare Center.

We will be planning for a flu vaccine clinic for the Healthcare Center very soon.

ONSITE DRIVE THRU COVID TESTING

We are happy to announce a partnership with LabTox that will provide Drive Thru COVID Testing for ANYONE that would like to get one.

*Please note that Sayre Christian Village will not have any access to test results and does not financially gain from onsite testing. The testing is provided as a way for housing residents, staff, their families, resident families, the neighborhood, and the greater community at large will have a safe and convenient way to get quick results.

Vaccine and Natural Immunity Test

On September 1st, Sphere Diagnostics drew labs on Residents at the Healthcare center to detect the level of COVID-19 antibodies present in residents who had either been vaccinated, previously tested positive for COVID-19, or both.

The test was drawn prior to the administration of the booster vaccine (3rd dose). This test allowed the lab to have a baseline level of immunity to compare to the level of immunity present after the booster was given.

This is a part of a study being done to collect data on the effectiveness of the vaccine versus a natural immunity.

On September 29th, Sphere Diagnostics drew the follow-up lab of the residents who received the booster shot. The results will be reported back to SHC next week. If you have questions regarding the test and/or would like to know your loved one’s results of either or both tests, please reach out to Penny Upton, VP of Healthcare Services by emailor by phone at 859/271-9000 ext.124.

We will continue to keep you informed of any updates and changes as they develop. Thank you for the honor of caring for your loved one, as well as your patience and understanding as we all continue to adjust to the ever changing and evolving world of COVID.

(September 28, 2021)

Drive-Thru COVID Testing at SCV

We’re excited to announce that we have partnered with LabTox to provide ONSITE COVID-19 testing (both rapid and PCR) to the community at large. They will be available Monday – Friday at the corner of Camelot and Belleau Wood. Please bring your insurance card with you. The number to call for information is 859-303-4050. PCR test results will be available by noon the next day (unless you have your test done on a Friday, please be there before noon to receive your results same day).

Please note that SCV does not have access to COVID test results and does not financially gain from onsite testing.  

We will still have our onsite testing in the Healthcare Center for employees and residents at this time.

(September 27, 2021)

Testing

Staff at the Healthcare Center tested today and will test again on Thursday. Residents of the Healthcare Center will test as well on Thursday. As long as we have no new positives, we may be able to resume indoor visitation on October 1st. Please stay tuned for more updates and keep us in your prayers. We miss seeing you in the building!

Vaccine Booster

We will be hosting an on-site vaccine booster clinic on Wednesday, 9/29 at Friendship Towers and Baunta for all housing residents that choose to have it. With the latest CDC guidelines, both residents and staff can get the shot at most pharmacies now, but this onsite clinic will be an incredibly convenient option. Residents of the Healthcare Center that declined the booster last time, but would like to have it now, will also be able to have the shot on Wednesday.

We will also be giving flu shots as well on the same day as the CDC has confirmed that there is no danger to having them both on the same day.

CDC latest information: 

  • People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series
  • People aged 50 to 64 with certain underlying medical conditions should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series
  • People 18 to 49 who are at high risk for severe COVID-19 due to certain underlying medical conditions may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risk
  • People aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series

(September 23, 2021)

Good evening Sayre Healthcare Center Residents, Families & Team Members:

All residents at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested Thursday (9/23) for COVID-19 and we are grateful to report that we have no new positive cases to report at this time for staff or residents!  We are still waiting on results for some of our employees and we expect to receive the remainder of our employee results back tomorrow.

As such, we are reporting Sayre Healthcare Center has 6 employees who have tested positive and no positive residents.  The employees who have tested positive are isolating at home and are not in the facility.

Below are the measures we will continue to take to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our facility:

Testing

  • All staff and residents will be retested every 3 to 7 days until testing identifies no new cases of COVID-19 infection among staff or residents for a period of at least 14 days since the most recent positive result (Friday, 09/17/21).  Next testing date for staff is Sunday/Monday, 9/26and 9/27 and for residents is Thursday, 09/30.

Visitation

  • Indoor visitation for residents on Units 1 and 2 will be suspended until we meet the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing (14 days with no new cases).
  • Indoor visitation for residents on Unit 4 can still occur at this time as the current guidance allows for visitation in units with no COVID-19 cases.  We currently have no cases on Unit 4.
  • Outdoor visitation, window visits, virtual visits and compassionate care visits can still occur for residents who are not showing symptoms consistent with COVID or who have tested positive.  To schedule a visit, please email Mark Sparkman, SHC Activities Director at.
  • Window visits can NOT occur outside of resident room windows as many of our resident are in semi-private rooms and this can violate resident privacy and/or HIPAA policies.

Infection Prevention (until we meet the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing)

  • All staff regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear N95 masks and appropriate PPE at all times
  • Group activities and communal dining will be suspended on Units 1 and 2
  • Please limit deliveries to the facility as much as possible so that we may limit movement throughout the facility and allow our staff the resources to perform additional tasks that occur when all of our residents are in quarantine (ie virtual/outdoor visits, sanitizing, meal service, one-to-one activities, etc.)

Communication

“Ride to Remember” is ON!

  • Come join us at Sayre Christian Village’s first annual “Ride to Remember” Charity Ride and Car + Bike Show.  The event will be fun for the entire family and is an outdoor fundraising event on September 25th, 2021!  Our team has spent a tremendous amount of time and effort preparing for this fundraiser and we are confident we will be able to host it outdoors in a safe manner.   Proceeds benefit both Sayre Christian Village Memory Care communities and we need support now more than ever!  For more information about our fundraiser, click https://www.sayrechristianvillage.org/2021/09/ride-to-remember-charity-ride/

I would like to thank our staff, residents and families for your continued support and prayers to keep our campus safe.

God’s Best,

Karen L. Venis

(September 20, 2021)

Good evening Sayre Healthcare Center Residents, Families & Team Members:

All residents at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested Sunday/Monday (9/19 or 9/20) for COVID-19 and we are grateful to report that we have no new positive cases to report at this time for staff or residents! We are still waiting on results for 2 residents and expect to receive those tomorrow morning (families of those 2 residents have been notified). We expect to receive the remainder of our employee results back tomorrow.

Additionally, the resident who tested positive on Thursday, 9/16 was tested again on Friday, 9/17 and today, Monday 9/20 and has tested negative both times. Because the resident is asymptomatic and has had 2 negative tests, the resident has been released from isolation and will be relocating back to their regular room.

As such, we are reporting Sayre Healthcare Center has 6 employees who have tested positive (1 additional employee tested positive on Friday, 9/17) and no positive residents. The employees who have tested positive are isolating at home and are not in the facility.

Below are the measures we will continue to take to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our facility:

Testing

All staff and residents will be retested every 3 to 7 days until testing identifies no new cases of COVID-19 infection among staff or residents for a period of at least 14 days since the most recent positive result (Friday, 09/17/21). Next testing date for staff and residents is Thursday, 09/23 from 7am to 7pm.

Visitation

  • Indoor visitation for residents on Units 1 and 2 will be suspended until we meet the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing (14 days with no new cases).
  • Indoor visitation for residents on Unit 4 can still occur at this time as the current guidance allows for visitation in units with no COVID-19 cases. We currently have no cases on Unit 4.
  • Outdoor visitation, window visits, virtual visits and compassionate care visits can still occur for residents who are not showing symptoms consistent with COVID or who have tested positive. To schedule a visit, please email Mark Sparkman, SHC Activities Director at .
  • Window visits can NOT occur outside of resident room windows as many of our resident are in semi-private rooms and this can violate resident privacy and/or HIPAA policies.

Infection Prevention (until we meet the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing)

  • All staff regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear N95 masks and appropriate PPE at all times
  • Group activities and communal dining will be suspended on Units 1 and 2
  • Please limit deliveries to the facility as much as possible so that we may limit movement throughout the facility and allow our staff the resources to perform additional tasks that occur when all of our residents are in quarantine (ie virtual/outdoor visits, sanitizing, meal service, one-to-one activities, etc.)

Communication

We will also continue to update our website as our COVID-19 our status changes and when we have new information to provide.

“Ride to Remember” is ON!

We have made the decision to move forward and host Sayre Christian Village’s first annual “Ride to Remember” Charity Ride and Car + Bike Show. The event will be fun for the entire family and is an outdoor fundraising event on September 25th, 2021! Our team has spent a tremendous amount of time and effort preparing for this fundraiser and we are confident we will be able to host it outdoors in a safe manner. Proceeds benefit both Sayre Christian Village Memory Care communities and we need support now more than ever!

There is something for everyone, including an online silent auction that went live TODAY!

Family Council POSTPONED

We will be postponing our family council that was scheduled for Tuesday, 09/21/21 and will announce a rescheduled date very soon.

I would like to thank our staff, residents and families for your continued support and prayers to keep our campus safe.

God’s Best,

Karen L. Venis

(September 17, 2021)

Healthcare Center

We do have an additional team member whose test results came back positive today from the round of testing yesterday. The staff member was alerted before they began their shift and is in quarantine at this time. All staff results are now in and we will test both staff and residents again on Sunday/Monday.

If you would like to set up an in-person outdoor visit or a window or virtual visit, please contact Mark Sparkman. The weather has been beautiful and outdoor visits are very comfortable right now, thankfully.

Chaplain Dale has some words of comfort for our families, stemming from his own experience with visitor restrictions last year. If you would like to reach out to him, he is often visiting with the residents and will be happy to pray with your loved one or pass on words of encouragement. Please continue to pray for our residents and staff as we carry out protocols to mitigate the spread.

https://youtu.be/srNRJRtRf2k

(September 16, 2021)

Healthcare Center

As you know, we previously communicated that 3 staff members at Sayre Healthcare Center tested positive for COVID-19.  Through our contact tracing, we identified possible exposure to residents on Units 1 and 2.  Out an abundance of caution, all residents on Units 1 and 2 (both vaccinated AND unvaccinated) were tested for COVID-19 this morning.  At this time, we have results back for all residents and are reporting that 1 resident has tested positive for COVID-19.  We have notified Dr. Richard, our medical director as well as the resident’s responsible party.  The resident is asymptomatic and is being relocated to our designated COVID-19 unit and will isolate in that unit until they are released by the health department.

We are also reporting 2 additional staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. In total, we currently have 5 staff members (3 vaccinated and 2 unvaccinated) and 1 resident (unvaccinated) who have tested positive for COVID-19.

Below are the measures we are taking to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our facility:

Testing

  • All staff and residents will be retested every 3 to 7 days until testing identifies no new cases of COVID-19 infection among staff or residents for a period of at least 14 days since the most recent positive result (Thursday, 09/16/21).

Visitation

  • Indoor visitation for residents on Units 1 and 2 will be suspended until we meet the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing (14 days with no new cases).
  • Indoor visitation for residents on Unit 4 can still occur at this time as the current guidance allows for visitation in units with no COVID-19 cases.  We currently have no cases on Unit 4.
  • Outdoor visitation, window visits, virtual visits and compassionate care visits can still occur for residents who are not showing symptoms consistent with COVID or who have tested positive.  To schedule a visit, please email Mark Sparkman, SHC Activities Director at .
  • Window visits can NOT occur outside of resident room windows as many of our resident are in semi-private rooms and this can violate resident privacy and/or HIPAA policies.

Infection Prevention (until we meet the criteria to discontinue outbreak testing)

  • All staff regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear N95 masks and appropriate PPE at all times
  • Group activities and communal dining will be suspended on Units 1 and 2
  • Residents on Unit 4 will be tested on Monday, 9/20/21
  • Please limit deliveries to the facility as much as possible so that we may limit movement throughout the facility and allow our staff the resources to perform additional tasks that occur when all of our residents are in quarantine (ie virtual/outdoor visits, sanitizing, meal service, one-to-one activities, etc.

Communication

  • We will also continue to update our website as our COVID-19 our status changes and when we have new information to provide.  Please bookmark this page. 

While we are disappointed in today’s test results, we won’t give up.  “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up”  Galatians 6:9

God’s Best,

Karen L. Venis

(September 14, 2021)

Healthcare Center

We had 3 team members test positive today at the Healthcare Center. All are in quarantine at home and in compliance with health department guidance.

We appreciate the mitigation protocols of the environmental services team and maintenance as they quickly jumped in with the sanitizing guns to prevent spread. Contact tracing is in progress and additional mitigation steps may be identified tomorrow.

Unvaccinated staff continue to test twice weekly and remain in N95 masks at the Healthcare Center while Fayette County remains in the Red on the Kentucky COVID incidence rate map. Vaccinated staff have the option to test.

(September 1, 2021)

We do have a staff member that tested positive at the Healthcare Center. After contact tracing, we feel the exposure was not at work, but due to close family that has it as the staff member has not been at work very recently.

We continue to test staff twice a week at the Healthcare Center as Fayette County remains a red county on the incidence map.

(August 27, 2021)

Baunta Independent Living Apartments

A staff member at Baunta Apartments has tested positive and is in quarantine at home, in cooperation with the health department. This staff member was not an exposure risk to residents as the staff member acquired COVID from exposure to their COVID positive child in quarantine that they have already been at home caring for.

August 26, 2021)

Baunta Independent Living Apartments

We do have a COVID positive resident at Baunta that is quarantining and working with the health department to follow guidelines.

There is no requirement for the Baunta or Forest View residents to report to us if they have been exposed or tested positive for COVID-19. The cases that we report in the updates here are for those independent living residents that voluntarily report to us.

(August 24, 2021)

Visitor Restrictions

Thank you for your patience as we waited on several test results. We had a few spiked temps over the weekend that dissipated and were likely due to the vaccine 3rd doses. All flu and COVID tests have returned negative, so we will lift visitor restrictions tomorrow, Wednesday the 25th.

We will see you tomorrow! 

Please Be Cautious

If you have been exposed to COVID or are showing any signs or symptoms, please do not visit until you are certain that you are not carrying the virus into the building for the safety of staff and residents. Masks are required at all times.

Thank you!

We have already had several family members reach out to donate gift cards for employee meals.

If you would like to show your support for our very own health care heroes during Kentucky Health Care Heroes Appreciation Week, please reach out to Dee Hogston, VP of Human Resources. Ideas of ways to show your support for the staff that are always appreciated are meals or snacks, coffee, gift cards for employee prizes and THANK YOUs.

(August 23, 2021)

3rd Dose Updates for the Campus

Last week Dr. Stack, KY Commissioner of Public Health, classified long term care residents as immunocompromised and recommended that they receive the 3rd dose of vaccine.

To clarify, he issued a FAQ and defined long term care residents as those who reside in a skilled nursing facility.

We don’t have the green light yet for 3rd doses for residents at Friendship Towers, Baunta, or Forest View Apartments.

If an individual is otherwise immunocompromised, they can get the 3rd dose on their own (EASY to find a vaccine location).

While we hosted a vaccine clinic onsite at SHC for residents on Friday, we don’t have any onsite clinics scheduled for the rest of the campus as of yet. As soon as we get green light to go ahead with vaccines for remainder of campus, we will schedule another clinic but for now, that timeframe is currently out of our control.

Visitors at the Healthcare Center

We had hoped to have news today for families and friends for opening visitation at the Healthcare Center a bit earlier than planned. However, we have had a few symptoms that could be flu-related or could be short-term symptoms from the 3rd dose of the Covid vaccine from the clinic on Friday. Out of an abundance of caution, we have tested these few residents and are awaiting their results.

(August 19, 2021)

3rd DOSE COVID VACCINE SHOTS AT THE HEALTHCARE CENTER

As you may know, the CDC has recently announced that a 3rd dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for immunocompromised Kentuckians at least 28 days after a second dose.

On Monday, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, announced that all residents of long term care facilities have been deemed to be classified as immunocompromised and will immediately being eligible to receive a third doseof either Pfizer or Moderna. Dr. Stack stated that his decision was based on the fact that residents of LTC facilities are infirm, elderly or disabled and live in a congregate settings.

Our primary concern is the health and safety of our residents and so we have been working swiftly to gain swift access to the 3rd doses for our residents.  We have partnered with Med-Save Pharmacy in Wilmore, Kentucky to administer the 3rd dose to our residents.  Sayre Healthcare Center just received confirmation that we will be able to administer these doses tomorrow, Friday 08/20/2021!  Assuming we receive your consent, SHC residents who received Pfizer for their 1st and 2nd dose will also receive Pfizer for their 3rd dose tomorrow.

In order to administer the vaccine, we need consent from our POA/responsible parties.  To speed up the process, I’ve created a fillable form and am asking you to complete this form as soon as possible so that your loved ones at the Healthcare Center can receive their 3rd dose tomorrow.  We will begin administering vaccines tomorrow at 2:30pm at the Healthcare Center.

Please click this link to provide consent: https://forms.gle/d273AtGvG2ktMNmH9

Of course, let me know if you have any questions at all.

Booster shots will be available for the residents in assisted living and independent living soon our sources tell us!

God’s Best,

Karen L. VeniS

(August 17, 2021)

WHAT IS THE CURRENT SHC FLU OUTBREAK UPDATE?

The current flu cases have reduced to 15. Most residents are improving daily. We do have two new residents that are exhibiting symptoms; but they have returned negative for flu.

WHEN DOES VISITATION RESUME AT SHC?

Our infection prevention protocols and guidance from our Medical Director both state that visitation will resume 10 days after no new cases. In addition, all residents must be symptom free. The goal that we are shooting for is the last week of August for a return to visitation.

Visitors at assisted living and independent living have no restrictions on visitors. 

CAN I SCHEDULE A VIRTUAL VISIT AT SHC?

Always! If you would like to schedule a virtual visit, please reach out to your social worker or Mark Sparkman, Activities Director for Units 100 and 200, or Paula White, Activities Director for Unit 400 and they will help facilitate.

HOW CAN I HELP?

Because our indoor volunteer program and group activities are paused, the Life Enrichment Team has pivoted to provide 1:1 activities and virtual visits.

Consider purchasing something off the Amazon Wish List that would make a residents’ day or provide a resource for the Life Enrichment Team!

WHAT IS THE LATEST COVID UPDATE AT SHC?

We currently have one positive staff member that is in quarantine at home.

Because Fayette County is in the ‘Red’ on the incidence map, nonvaccinated staff members are tested twice weekly and must remain in N95 masks. Vaccinated staff are tested voluntarily and may wear N95 masks or surgical masks. *All Healthcare Staff are currently wearing N95 masks not because of COVID, but due to mitigation protocols for the flu.

WILL RESIDENTS BE OFFERED A VACCINE BOOSTER?

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, announced today in Governor Beshear’s press conference that long term care residents would be offered a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine under the presumption that all infirm elderly are immunocompromised. The CDC is hoping these third doses can be rapidly implemented for those that choose to have them. Stay tuned for additional information about when these vaccines will be available on campus.

ANY WORD ON COVID VISITOR RESTRICTIONS?

There has been no new mandate of Kentucky-wide visitor restrictions at long term care communities like we experienced last year. We will continue to listen for any chatter about this, but there has been nothing so far.

WILL SHC REQUIRE PROOF OF VACCINE TO VISIT?

Earlier in 2021, shortly after the COVID visitor restrictions lifted, SHC required proof of vaccination, proof of a negative COVID test, or the option to rapid test before visiting a loved one.

At this time, we have no vaccine-dependent restrictions planned once the flu outbreak is over. However, we are asking our families and friends to be vigilant. Please do not visit if you have any symptoms that could be related to COVID, if you feel unsure, or if you believe you may have been exposed.

Of course, depending on how the Delta variant hospitalizations continue to climb, we may have to pivot. The safety of our residents if our primary concern.

WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE A CONCERN?

Please feel free to reach out to the social services team, Penny Upton, VP Healthcare Services, or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing with comments, concerns, or questions at any time.

Social Services

(August 16, 2021)

HEALTHCARE CENTER TESTING

Per CMS, we test unvaccinated staff twice a week as Fayette Country is in the RED. Testing will take place on Sunday/Monday and Thursday for unvaccinated staff. It is mandatory for unvaccinated staff to remain in N95 masks. Testing & N95 masks for vaccinated staff is voluntary per COVID guidance. However, all staff at the Healthcare Center are currently wearing N95 masks due to the flu outbreak. 

We did have a staff member test COVID positive on Friday and that staff member is currently in quarantine at home. No other staff or residents are positive.

COVID Testing Trigger for Staff

  • Symptomatic – Individual identified Staff, vaccinated and unvaccinated, with signs and symptoms must be tested
  • Outbreak (Any new case arises in facility) – Test all staff, vaccinated and unvaccinated, that previously tested negative until no new cases are identified*
  • Routine testing – According to Kentucky Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 County Indicator Map

(August 12, 2021)

HPIV 3 FLU STRAIN UPDATE

We have one additional case of the flu to report today at the Healthcare Center, which will extend the visitor restrictions. We are continuing to restrict movement between the units to mitigate spread, communal activities and spiritual services have been paused. Staff have been tasked with being extra diligent with handwashing, in addition to increasing sanitization and cleaning of surfaces.

Our infection prevention protocols and guidance from our Medical Director both state that visitation at the Healthcare Center will resume 10 days after no new flu cases. In addition, all residents must be symptom-free.

If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing at (859) 514 – 0037 or you may email her or email Penny Upton, VP of Healthcare Services at any time.

MONTHLY SHC FAMILY COUNCIL

In light of the visitor restriction extension, we will not hold the August SHC Family Council in person, however we do want to continue to be open and transparent with questions and comments. Please send in any questions or comments and we’ll respond to all in an email to families before the date and time of the original monthly meeting.

The email to families will also include updates on the Life Enrichment Center and other campus happenings.

Our prayers are for a quick end to the flu at the Healthcare Center and a reuniting of families and residents very soon.

(August 10, 2021)

HPIV 3 FLU STRAIN UPDATE

The lab returned the remaining results and there are no additional cases to report! The total count remains at 16 cases of the HPIV 3 flu strain.

WHEN DOES SHC VISITATION RESUME?

Our infection prevention protocols and guidance from our Medical Director both state that visitation at the Healthcare Center will resume 10 days after no new flu cases. In addition, all residents must be symptom-free.

Praise God, there are no residents showing new flu symptoms. Continue to keep residents in your prayers.

MONTHLY SHC FAMILY COUNCIL

We do plan on holding our monthly SHC Family Council next week – please save the date for August 17th, 5 – 6 PM. You are welcome to send in a question in advance to be answered that night.

(August 6, 2021)

Five weeks ago we were at 1.88% positivity rate – we are now 10.08%. 

Per CMS, we return to testing unvaccinated staff twice a week as Fayette Country is now RED. Testing will take place on Sunday/Monday and Thursday for unvaccinated staff.

Testing Trigger for Staff

  • Symptomatic – Individual identified Staff, vaccinated and unvaccinated, with signs and symptoms must be tested
  • Outbreak (Any new case arises in facility) – Test all staff, vaccinated and unvaccinated, that previously tested negative until no new cases are identified*
  • Routine testing – According to Kentucky Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 County Indicator Map

Healthcare Center Flu Update

Many of the PCR testing results have come back for the HPIV 3 flu strain testing that took place yesterday. We now have 16 confirmed cases of the flu at the Healthcare Center. Results are still pending for others and we will update this section as they come in.  If you have questions, please reach out to Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing at (859) 514 – 0037 or you may email her or email Penny Upton, VP of Healthcare Services at any time.

(August 5, 2021)

Healthcare Center Flu Update

We do not have any new COVID cases to report at this time. We have one active case on Unit 4 that remains in isolation. Residents have been PCR tested several times and remain COVID negative.

HPIV 3 FLU STRAIN

We have one confirmed case of the HPIV 3 flu strain at the Healthcare Center, multiple staff and 31 residents currently exhibiting symptoms. The HPIV 3 flu strain is a very serious strain, sometimes compared to H1N1, and can lead to pneumonia in older adults.

Out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily pausing visitors at the Healthcare Center.

HOW LONG WILL THE VISITOR PAUSE LAST?

The flu has very similar mitigation protocols to COVID and limiting movement throughout the building will help us focus care on those that are currently showing symptoms and reduce the spread.

We will continually evaluate the visitor pause with our Medical Director, Dr. Richard, and his infectious disease team and lean on his guidance for when to lift it.

FLU MITIGATION PROTOCOLS

Historically, these flu mitigation protocols have worked extremely well prior to COVID and allowed us to shorten visitation pause time.

• All units will be isolated and visitors paused to the Healthcare Center.
• Flu testing (to confirm flu and the strain) will take place under the direction of Dr. Richards’ team.
• Increased fluids, popsicles and a special diet that is easy on the stomach will begin today. Dining services will individually box meals as communal dining is pausing.
• Activities and spiritual services are pausing to limit movement throughout the units.
• Staff will minimize movement throughout the campus as a whole.
• Staff are being reeducated on hand washing and stepped up sanitization protocols have begun. (Flu is spread through droplets)

We are charged with the health and safety of the residents and staff and understand that a visitor pause feels like COVID. We know that makes you feel uncomfortable, but we do not have a reason to suspect more COVID cases at this time. We will remain transparent and share updates as they come.

If you have questions, please reach out to Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing at (859) 514 – 0037 or you may email her or email me at any time.

Thank you for your patience and support,

Penny Upton,
VP, Healthcare Services

(August 2, 2021)

Healthcare Center

A fully vaccinated resident on Unit 4 at Sayre Healthcare Center has been confirmed positive for COVID-19.

Residents and staff on Unit 4 will be tested for COVID and will also be monitored for signs and symptoms that are consistent with COVID.

The resident who is confirmed positive is currently under isolation precautions and we are pausing activities on Unit 4 for the next few days to minimize movement on the Unit.

We will not be restricting visitors at this time but respectfully ask that you limit your visits as much as possible out an abundance of caution and for the safety of our residents, staff and family members.

We will continue to keep you updated as we have more information available.

Thank you, Karen L. Venis, CEO

(July 27, 2021)

We are happy to report that the results for the Friendship Towers Assisted Living Memory Care Community residents and staff are negative for COVID-19.

We did send a Memory Care resident to the hospital on Wednesday with symptoms consistent with COVID. Out of an abundance of caution, we paused activities and entertainment to limit movement about the building while we waited on results.

All scheduled activities will continue as normal, as the fully-vaccinated resident tested negative at the hospital and all other Memory Care test results also returned negative. Praise the Lord!

TESTING

We will test once more on Thursday to be extra cautious, however the visitor exposure happened early last week. We expect to be in the clear.

We are asking all visitors to stay at home if they have been exposed to COVID or have symptoms consistent with COVID and remain masked in the building, regardless of vaccine status please.

(July 26, 2021)

As the positivity rate continues to increase in Kentucky (Fayette County is now in the ORANGE on the COVID incidence map), we must remain vigilant in our duty to care for the most vulnerable population.

Out of an abundance of caution, we are testing staff and residents in our Friendship Towers Assisted Living Memory Care Community due to a potential COVID exposure.

IMMEDIATE AGGRESSIVE MITIGATION EFFORTS

  • Testing – All staff & residents of the FT memory care community are being PCR tested. We expect results within 24-48 hours.
  • Restricting Movement – Staff & residents will remain on 3rd floor till results come back from testing and not move about the building.
  • Masked Visitors – All visitors & staff are screened and scanned prior to entry. Visitors may still visit family, but masks must be worn the entire visit please, regardless of vaccination status. Please do not take them off in the apartments & please keep them above the nose.
  • Sanitization – Stepped up cleaning and sanitization (including use of the ‘sanitization guns’) is taking place, as well as proper hand hygiene.

Ensuring residents are cared for in a safe and healthy environment is our greatest goal. We will notify families and the public if any residents or staff at Friendship Towers are diagnosed with COVID-19. Thank you for your continued support and prayers for our community, residents, and staff.

With gratitude, Karen Venis, CEO

(July 16, 2021)

The positivity rate continues to climb in Kentucky.

In light of the positivity rate in Kentucky increasing from 1.88% on June 30th to 4.04% on July 15th, we have decided to return to a full campus mask mandate to include the Assisted Living and Independent Housing buildings.

Any unvaccinated staff at the Healthcare Center must wear an N-95 mask while at work – no exceptions.  Masks will be available at the front receptionist areas in all the buildings.

We need to be diligent in protecting our residents, our coworkers, ourselves, and our loved ones at home.

Testing

Fayette County is still in the yellow; however, more and more counties are slipping into the orange.  As of right now, we are still testing nonvaccinated staff once a month per guidance.  If Fayette County turns to the orange indicator, we will be required to test nonvaccinated staff weekly.  If we have a positive case or an outbreak, all staff and residents, regardless of vaccination status, would need to be tested.

Take care of yourselves and each other!

(May 21, 2021)

We currently don’t have any reported cases of COVID-19 for residents or staff anywhere on campus! Plus, Kentucky Guidance for COVID testing for long term care, assisted AND independent living facilities has changed, for the GOOD!!  Moving forward, here is the new guidance (CAMPUS WIDE):

WHO IS REQUIRED TO TEST?

  • Residents (regardless of vaccination status) IF they have symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
  • Staff who are NOT fully vaccinated (14 days past receiving single-dose vaccine OR the 2nd shot of a 2-dose vaccine).

If staff is fully vaccinated, they are no longer required to test UNLESS:

  • We have an outbreak/new positive case in the building
  • Staff have symptoms consistent with COVID-19

We continue to hold weekly vaccine clinics for residents and staff.  If someone has been diagnosed with COVID, they should not be tested again within 3 months from the date of the positive test, unless they have symptoms consistent with COVID-19.

HOW OFTEN DO WE HAVE TO TEST?

The frequency of testing is determined by the color of the Fayette County community indicated map. The map currently has Fayette County as a ‘yellow’, and as such, we move to testing not fully vaccinated staff 1 x month.

DO STAFF STILL HAVE TO WEAR A MASK?

YES!  If staff is fully vaccinated, they must wear a medical mask. If they are not fully vaccinated, they must wear a N-95 mask. We know that CDC recently published new guidance about masks but it DOES NOT apply to healthcare settings or congregate senior living settings.

(May 8, 2021)

I’m so happy to be able to give the good news!

We ARE resuming in-room visitation tomorrow, Sunday, May 9th. The thought of being closed on yet another Mother’s Day was something we were just heartsick about and we’re thrilled that everyone can be together!

Thank you so much for your patience over the past couple weeks. We know it’s hard to go from one extreme to another, however, the COVID variant is real and out there. There are several other skilled nursing communities in the area that are in outbreak status, so we did feel that being aggressive in mitigation protocols was the right call for the health and safety of your loved ones. Of course, we also know the power of family interaction and are grateful for only a brief pause and for the efficacy of the vaccines.

Please, come see Mom on Mother’s Day and we look forward to seeing you back in the Healthcare Center.

MOTHER’S DAY VISITATION GUIDELINES

  • Please, only 2 visitors per resident
  • Visitation hours will be from 9 am – 4 pm
  • Masks must stay on at all times, please.

Thank you for your encouragement, your faithfulness, and your patience! It’s an honor to care for your mothers and fathers.

(May 7, 2021)

SHC COVID-19 Testing Update

We have received all of the COVID test results from the Healthcare Center staff & resident testing on Thursday, 5/6. All resident test results are NEGATIVE. Praise God!

The lab did identify one staff member as positive.

The employee is asymptomatic, quarantining at home, and cooperating with the local health department. This staff member has had one round of the vaccine and the lab has identified that they have the variant strain. The staff member did not have contact with the previous fully-vaccinated positive staff-member and the contract tracing led to outside exposure, not exposure from within our building.

This current staff member tested negative on Monday during routine testing and positive in the Thursday testing.

Out an abundance of caution, all residents from the employee’s unit (Unit 4) are being PCR COVID-tested. All residents on Unit 4 are fully vaccinated and not exhibiting COVID symptoms. We expect these new lab results tomorrow and we will have confirmation by NOON on Saturday, May 8th. Please be watching for that update.

If there are no positive resident cases, we do expect to open for visitation on Sunday, May 9th. We want you to be able to spend Mother’s Day with your loved one and we do expect favorable resident test results.

(May 6, 2021)

SHC COVID-19 Testing Update

Residents and staff of the Healthcare Center tested this morning and we do expect to have results sometime tomorrow, Friday 5/7. If results from lab are all negative, we will begin to roll back the visitation pause for in-room visits. Check back here for more updates on visitation resuming. Currently, Window, Outdoor, and Virtual Visits continue to take place at SHC.

(May 4, 2021)

SHC COVID-19 Testing Update

283 results back and all were negative! We will test again Thursday. 

Read the full update on the newsletter for the Healthcare Center, including news about return to in-room visitation if all results are clear after Thursday.

(May 3, 2021)

Healthcare Center Residents COVID testing

As a result of our testing for SHC residents and staff last Wed/Thurs, we have NO NEW cases to report at this time. The employees case that was recorded on April 28 was a fully-vaccinated, asymptomatic staff member that tested positive in routine testing and was confirmed to have a variant strain. We are testing all residents and staff again as follows:

  • Monday, 05/03
  • Thursday, 05/06
  • Monday, 05/10

We will determine future testing dates once we get the results from our next 3 rounds of testing as well as the indicator map for Fayette County.

Out an abundance of caution, if we have any residents who exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID, they will be placed in isolation.

Visitation at the Healthcare Center

Lobby, Outdoor, and Virtual Visits

All other buildings continue with normal visitation and the Healthcare Center will revaluate after the two week period. 

  • Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm. (Both Outdoor & Lobby Visits)
  • Saturdays 10 – 3 pm (one time slot per ½ hour only, all Lobby Window Visits)
  • 20 minute visits, scheduled on the ½ hour
  • Call 859-271-9000 ext 292 to schedule
  • Visitation takes place in the Human Resources Lobby (behind plexiglass & masked) and outdoors at the Human Resources Entrance (Look for Entrance sign #3)
  • Residents & Visitors must both be masked at all times if meeting outside. Residents must be masked while inside for a Window Visit.
  • Please limit the visitors to 2 visitors/resident visit please.
  • These 3 visitation types will be in place until we go 14 days without any new positive cases. Once we go 14 days, we will resume visitation that involves being able to visit in resident rooms.

(April 29, 2021)

Healthcare Center Residents COVID testing

All residents of the Healthcare Center were COVID tested yesterday out of an abundance of caution. All results have returned from the lab today, negative.

All Healthcare Center staff were COVID tested again today and we expect the results tomorrow. (Update: as of 4 pm on Thursday, 4/29, we had 209 negative results!)

Healthcare Center staff will PCR test Monday and Thursday for two weeks until further notice. The staff that had close contact will rapid test each day until further notice.

(April 28, 2021)

Healthcare Center COVID Mitigation

A fully-vaccinated, asymptomatic staff member tested positive for COVID-19 during routine testing. It is the variant strain. The employee is cooperating with the health department, at home in quarantine, and contact tracing is taking place.

Because there are other facilities in the Lexington area who currently have outbreaks related to the variant, we are moving quickly. Out of an abundance of caution and for the protection of loved ones and staff, we are taking aggressive and immediate steps to mitigate the spread. These protocols will be evaluated after a 2 week period.

Contain & Stop the Spread

  • All staff that had close contact are/were being tested today using rapid tests.
  • All Healthcare Center residents are being tested (PCR) today. Results likely will be back sometime tomorrow.
  • All Healthcare Center staff to be tested tomorrow again.
  • We will be testing every Monday and Thursday (Sunday for weekend staff) until further notice at the Healthcare Center, regardless of county color status.
  • A COVID unit is ready in the event we have a resident test positive.
  • All Healthcare Center staff should be in N-95 masks and if possible in face shields/eye protection REGARDLESS of their vaccine status.
  • We are stepping up education, sanitizing, infection control practices
  • Any in-person meetings will be rolled BACK to virtual.

Two Week Pause

  • We are suspending admissions, group activities and communal dining until further notice.
  • We are suspending in-person IN ROOM visitation until further notice.
  • We WILL be allowing outdoor visits, lobby visits and virtual visits, but those do need to be scheduled.

Schedule Lobby, Outdoor, and Virtual Visits at the Healthcare Center

  • Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm. (Both Outdoor & Lobby Visits)
  • Saturdays 10 – 3 pm (one time slot per ½ hour only, all Lobby Window Visits)
  • 20 minute visits, scheduled on the ½ hour
  • Call 859-271-9000 ext 292 to schedule
  • Visitation takes place in the Human Resources Lobby (behind plexiglass & masked) and outdoors at the Human Resources Entrance (Look for Entrance sign #3)
  • Residents & Visitors must both be masked at all times if meeting outside. Residents must be masked while inside for a Window Visit.
  • Please limit the visitors to 2 visitors/resident visit please.
  • These 3 visitation types will be in place until we go 14 days without any new positive cases. Once we go 14 days, we will resume visitation that involves being able to visit in resident rooms.

Seek the LORD and his strength;  seek his presence continually! 1 Chronicles 16:11 

It is in this moment that we are grateful for the experience that we do have battling this virus. We are very thankful that we already have the UV-lighting in the HVAC that was installed last November to mitigate the virus. That costly investment is a source of calm for us all as we know how much it helped to quickly put an end to the 2020 Healthcare Center outbreak once it was installed.

Get Vaccinated!

We are hosting a weekly vaccination clinic onsite at the Healthcare Center for any new staff, new residents, and staff that have overcome hesitancy. The vaccines are the best way that we can protect ourselves and residents. We are vaccinating another 20 staff and residents this Friday, and had 11 last Friday. We are continuing to educate about the benefits and disprove the myths out there.

Perseverance – steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.  I’m proud of the work that our staff does, day in and day out. I don’t want them to lose sight of how important they are and how important the health/safety of residents and team mates are.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 25, 2021)

Fayette County is now in the orange again, which means we must return to testing staff every week at the Healthcare Center.  Hopefully the county will be returning to yellow soon!

We hosted a vaccine clinic on campus Friday for any new residents & new staff that chose to take it, plus employees that overcome their previous hesitancy.

We will continue to hold vaccine clinics each week for residents and staff. 11 residents and staff received their first dose of the Moderna vaccine on Friday 4/23 and there are 10 residents and staff signed up for their first dose next Friday.

We continue to educate, educate, educate on the benefits of the vaccine to protect our team and residents and our obligation to do everything we can to protect the most vulnerable we care for.

(April 19, 2021)

We were notified last week that an employee at SHC tested positive for COVID. The exposure occurred outside of the facility. We have received notification today that the employee has been released to return to work. Employees at SHC were tested for COVID last week and as such, no additional cases were reported. We also tested residents who had close contact with the employee and all tested negative as well.

#TeamSCV has done a great job mitigating COVID and we thank them for continuing to follow great infection control practices. As you have probably heard, the overall positivity rate for Kentucky and for Fayette County had been on a steady decline, but over the last couple of weeks, the positivity rate has been on the rise. This is most likely due to the Easter holiday and spring break. I hope that the numbers head in the other direction soon.

SCV Hosting On-Site Moderna COVID vaccine clinic

We will be hosting an on-site vaccine clinic for the Moderna vaccine on Friday, 04/23/2021 for new residents, new staff, and staff that were hesitant in the past but have since decided to get the vaccine.

Ann Reed, Administrator at SHC has resigned for a new opportunity

Ann Reed, our Administrator at SHC has resigned and her last day will be Friday, 04/23. Ann will be leaving to take a travel administrator position and we wish her the best of luck with her new position. Please make sure to wish her luck at her new job and farewell if you see her this week.

We do have an interim administrator who will be with us starting next week until we select a permanent replacement for Ann. I will send more details as I have them but I did want to keep everyone in the loop.

God’s Best,
Karen Venis, CEO

(April 9, 2021)

Testing at Sayre Healthcare Center for Staff

Fayette County is now in the yellow which means we can go to testing every OTHER week at the Healthcare Center. The plan is to test this Sunday and Monday, April 11th and 12th, and then every other week from then until the county changes color again.

The number of COVID-19 deaths averaged 830 per day this past week, a 17 percent drop. The average number of daily COVID-19 vaccinations nationwide has risen to 3 million, a new record for the sixth week straight. Overall, the United States has confirmed more than 30 million COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began. Please continue to practice safe distancing, wear your mask and use hand sanitizer. Consider getting vaccinated if you have not done so.

“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” We are in this together, we have fought this together, and we can get through this together.” Philippians 2:4

(March 22, 2021)

Sayre Christian Village filmed in Public Service Announcement

During Governor Beshear’s press conference at 4 PM today, he showed a public service announcement that featured Sayre Christian Village staff, residents, and families.

“We’ve come too far and we’ve lost too much to mess this up now. So please continue to wear your masks until we get everybody vaccinated,” said Gov. Beshear. “And if you’re thinking about not taking the vaccine, think harder. Think about all the individuals you can protect. Think about how much they need your help to ensure we can continue what we see today, of fewer and fewer cases and fewer and fewer losses.”

The Governor shared a video filmed at Sayre Christian Village, a continuing care retirement community in Lexington, encouraging vaccinations and highlighting the day family and friends were once again allowed to visit residents.

“Our long-term care facilities and our skilled nursing homes were some of the hardest-hit communities during this pandemic, not only with cases and deaths, but with the separation from loved ones for over a year,” said Gov. Beshear. “The vaccine has changed everything for long-term care, but this progress depends on us. As these facilities reopen their doors, they need us, everybody else in Kentucky, to sign up for the vaccine.”

The Governor said more than 1,186,000 Kentuckians have been vaccinated already. If you need help scheduling your vaccine, they can help! 

Kentucky’s COVID-19 Vaccine Website, vaccine.ky.gov, shows Kentuckians which phase they are in specifically. Individuals can sign up for notifications so state officials can communicate with them when doses become available at new and existing sites. Kentucky’s vaccine map lists regional vaccination partners statewide, so individuals can search their county or region and see how to schedule an appointment. Below the vaccine map, Kentuckians can find additional vaccination sites at Kroger, Walmart and Walgreens stores, as well as independent pharmacies.

Kentucky’s COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline, 855-598-2246 or TTY 855-326-4654 (for deaf or hard-of-hearing Kentuckians), has the same features as the website. Kentuckians can get assistance completing the vaccine eligibility questionnaire and scheduling an appointment when doses are available. The hotline is available 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

Free or reduced-cost transportation to and from vaccine appointments is offered by public transit agencies across the commonwealth. These services are already operating in over 90 counties, covering 75% of all counties across Kentucky. Kentuckians can find transportation services near them by heading to kycovid19.ky.gov for a full list of participating public transit agencies and their phone numbers, or by calling the Kentucky COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline.

(March 16, 2021)

Tears of Joy

Monday was a HAPPY, HAPPY DAY here at the Healthcare Center and across campus. We had over 70 visitors at the Healthcare Center alone! The reunions were so special to watch and we encourage you to check out our Facebook page to see some of those videos & clips. They are SPECIAL.

CEO Karen Venis was interviewed by Sam Dick on The Breakdown to talk about the new visitor guidance in detail. We know it seems “strange” after a year of so many tight guidelines, but it really almost feels *normal* and we expect that as more of the population continues to get vaccinated, that things will continue to progress in the right way.

(March 12, 2021)

Relaxed Visitation Guidance Across Campus

It seems amazing to finally update the website with this news! We have received updated guidance for visitation from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Effective Monday March 15, 2021, we will be able to start having visitors at the Healthcare Center! The new guidance applies not only to the Healthcare Center, but supersedes any previous visitation guidelines in place across campus. (This replaces the guidance that was put in place several weeks ago at Friendship Towers).

  • There are no limits to amount of visitors per week or day, but please only 2 visitors at each of those visits.
  • Children are allowed as long as they wear a mask (age 2 and up) and are accompanied by an adult.
  • There are no visiting hours.
  • There are no tests or proof of vaccine required, however the resident must be fully vaccinated.
  • You can hug each other with proper hand hygiene and tight fitting masks on both individuals.

Please read the Visitor Screening and Attestation Form carefully prior to your visit. Each time you come you will need to sign this form. For the safety of our residents, it is imperative that you adhere to these guidelines.

Reduction of Window & Virtual Visits

Our goal is to provide as many in-person visits as possible and to ensure we have adequate staffing resources to facilitate those in-person visits. Our staffing will be shifting from facilitating window and virtual visits to escorting in-person visitors throughout the buildings. We will be reducing the availability of virtual and window visits moving forward to accomplish that goal.

I know this has been a long time coming and I am so proud of the sacrifices that our team members have made for the past year. As I have said many times, our team members have overcome obstacles that most people would walk away from and I’m so proud of their dedication to our ministry, our residents and to each other.

We are excited for you and your loved ones! Celebrate the news and we look forward to seeing you next week!

Blessings to all,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 11, 2021)

CMS Released New Guidance for Healthcare Center

(UPDATED) As you likely have heard, CMS revised federal guidance regarding in-person visitation, dining and communal activities on Wednesday evening. 

The team has been anticipating and planning ahead for this new guidance, however, we must wait for the Office of the Inspector General to release Kentucky-specific guidelines and clarifications. Inspector General Adam Mather has said that document will be released on Friday and Governor Beshear said that visits can start as soon as early as next week. 

(This Fall, when guidelines were updated in September, the Kentucky details that were announced on a Friday were a bit more stringent than federal guidance that was announced on a Wednesday.)

We feel confident that the CMS announcement is a step in the right direction and are eagerly awaiting the Kentucky guidance in writing so that we can iron out the fine details. 

Please continue to watch our website COVID update page. You will find the details there for how to make an in-person visit when we announce our plans!

We are very excited to see you back in the building and know that you can’t wait to see your loved one!

(March 9, 2021)

CDC Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated Individuals

Yesterday, the CDC released public health recommendations yesterday to guide the activities of fully vaccinated individuals in non-healthcare settings. We understand there are many questions surrounding this and families are wondering if this means they can visit with residents at the Healthcare Center in person.

LeadingAge addressed that this morning in their daily update:

Healthcare settings include nursing homes, assisted living, and inpatient hospice. This guidance from the CDC on 3/8/2021 does not refer to healthcare settings, so does not change current nursing home visitation guidance.

We also do not believe it impacts testing requirements for nursing home staff. We know that CMS and CDC have been working together to review long-term care guidance and we expect updates from CDC to long-term care guidance and from CMS on nursing home guidance soon.

(March 8, 2021)

Normal Day

Looking Back on a Year of Visitor Restrictions

At Sayre Christian Village, our world flipped on March 9th, when our doors closed to visitors, volunteers, and families for the first time in our over 35 year history.

Throughout the next week, we’ll be highlighting the bravery, resiliency, and heart displayed by #TeamSCV members that have overcome challenges that many would run from.

Our families have been steadfast and supportive, our residents have been strong and mighty, and God has been good to us.
As we mark this historic passage of time, we look forward to new guidance coming any day that will ease visitor restrictions at the Healthcare Center and guidance that continues to lighten for residents in Assisted and Independent Living.

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Philippians 4:13 ?

If you have a story that you would like to share about your experience this past year, please send it to vice president of marketing and development, Elise Hinchman at .

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine

We now know that any new residents and staff that wish to have the COVID vaccine will be able to have the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The J&J vaccine is only one dose, so a resident or staff member is fully vaccinated after just 2 weeks! This is AMAZING news for our community.

We also now know that our own nurses will be able to administer the shot, instead of having to partner with a pharmacy. While we are so grateful to CVS, our partner pharmacy, for our initial 6 COVID vaccine clinics, it will be easier going forward to administer these on our own now that the majority have been vaccinated.

As soon as the first doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine reach our community, we will make an announcement here.

In-Person Communal Dining at Sayre Healthcare Center

The team is finalizing details for in-person group dining at the Healthcare Center to start back this week! Residents will enjoy eating together again in the dining room, getting out and about for lunch and dinner, and seeing their friends from other units more frequently.

Fish Fry Friday Fundraiser

Every Friday during Lent, we’ll be hosting a traditional Fish Fry! You can pre-order your meals for a pickup time or order right before you head our way. Just pull into the new Friendship Towers Expansion parking lot and we’ll bring it out to you when you call to let us know you’re here. Pay via credit card number when ordering – $10.

  • 2 pieces Guinness Beer Battered Cod
  • French Fries
  • Coleslaw
  • House-made Tarter Sauce
  • Lemon Wedge

Family Food Delivery Day

Family Food Delivery Day at Sayre Healthcare Center has been rescheduled to March 15th from 11 AM – 1 PM. Unfortunately, many couldn’t make it out when this was scheduled before due to the snow and ice storm. Families are welcome to bring perishable foods and drinks on this day for their loved ones at Sayre Healthcare Center. Currently, we ask that only NON-perishable food items be left for delivery so that staff can focus on resident care and food stays safe while waiting on delivery.

Deliveries are made within 24 hours, but will be delivered promptly on Family Food Delivery Day to ensure that residents get a nice surprise of their favorite foods! Of course, you may always bring perishable food to give to loved ones during Window Visits at the Sayre Healthcare Center. We sure hope that Window Visits are a thing of the past SOON and that families are back in here safely shortly.

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine

We do know that since the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has been cleared by the FDA, that is the vaccine that has now been flagged for long term care.

We are waiting on more news about when these will be available to use for new residents and staff, who will be administering it and how frequently. We are thrilled that it is one shot for full vaccination and also that it doesn’t have the same temperature storage requirements as Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

Sayre Healthcare Center Residents Off-Campus

We have new guidance that states that residents of the Healthcare Center CAN go offsite and return without isolation if they have received both vaccine doses (if given Moderna or Pfizer), as long as they are not exposed to COVID while out. If you have questions about this option, please contact the social worker on your loved ones’ unit.

(March 1, 2021)

Chaplain Tyler

We have a bittersweet announcement today; Chaplain Tyler has taken a position at Bluegrass Care Navigators. While we are absolutely going to miss Tyler daily on campus, we are happy for his family to have this opportunity and thrilled that he will be working with our partner organization!

We will see Tyler on campus for his new position, but we also expect to see Tyler and his family at SCV functions going forward. He has established bonds here that will always keep him connected. Tyler is currently assisting in the search for our new chaplain and will help with that transition.

Tyler, thank you for your dedication these last 5 years; we wish you and your family all the best!

Assisted Living Memory Care

If you didn’t get a chance to attend the ZOOM Q&A for families last week, here’s your chance to catch it all in this recorded segment. We discuss all questions pertaining to this exciting new level of care for our campus AND we also go over new visitation guidance at Friendship Towers.

We hope to hear new guidance about relaxed visitation at Sayre Healthcare Center as early as this week from CMS! We know our families are eagerly awaiting news! Keep checking back here; this is where you’ll find the link to schedule visits when we get the go-ahead!

(February 28, 2021)

We are happy to announce we went another week without any positive cases! We also had no positive cases with testing performed today at Sayre Healthcare Center over the weekend.

Sayre Healthcare Center will resume testing again this week Monday and Thursday.

Fayette County went from red to orange on the positivity rate map, which is FANTASTIC NEWS! We are currently sitting right around 5% for all of Kentucky. Every Thursday, the state looks at the county positivity maps. This past Thursday, Fayette County was red. What this means is that if it stays out of the red the next two Thursdays, we could go from testing two times per week to one time per week!

(February 23, 2021)

If you haven’t signed up for an in-person visit at Friendship Towers Assisted Living, here is your chance! Just click the link and follow the easy steps. Ensure that you read all requirements carefully.

Watch the first visit underway yesterday in the video below. Vicki and Virgil, you melted our hearts! We’re so happy to welcome you back in the building!

(February 22, 2021)

Grandkids/Great-Grandkids Welcome

We sure do miss having little ones in the hallways too. Families and residents have asked if the new relaxed visitation guidance at Friendship Towers also relates to children.

The answer is YES, if the second visitor is over 18. Two visitors are allowed per resident at each visit, so it’s important that at least one Friendship Towers visitor is over 18. We ask that the children do keep their masks up as well as adults and they also will have to have the same guidelines met as adult visitors (vaccinated or proof of negative COVID test, or a rapid COVID test can be done before the visit).

The link to schedule visits is LIVE and includes all the latest requirements for a safe visit! Please let us know if you have any questions about scheduling. 

GUIDELINES FOR FRIENDSHIP TOWERS RESIDENT INDOOR VISITS:

Indoor visits will begin on Tuesday, February 23, 2021.

Each resident hosting a visitor must:

  1. have completed an FDA-approved or authorized COVID-19 vaccination;
  2. not be in isolation for current COVID-19 infection;
  3. not be in quarantine after exposure to a case of COVID-19; and
  4. not be exhibiting any symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
  • Visits can be scheduled 7 days/week between 9am-5pm. Visits are scheduled every 20 minutes to minimize crowding in our lobby. The time that you select will be the start time of your visit. Visiting hours end daily at 6pm and all visitors must exit the facility by this time. So that all residents have the opportunity for visitors, we are asking that family members schedule no more than 3 visits per week until further notice.
  • Up to 2 visitors (within the same household) per resident per visit. Visitors must be 18 years or older, with exception for second visitor if they are from the same household.
  • Visits will take place in either the resident’s apartment or an area designated by the facility. We ask that visitors remain in chosen designated area during the entire visit. Visitor must be escorted to/from designated area by a staff member.
  • In order to comply with guidance, we ask that all visitors use the main entrance to Friendship Towers (the entrance to the new apartments is closed to the public at this time).
  • Upon entering visitor must sign in, sign attestation form, have temperature taken and be provided education materials upon request.
  • Visitors will need to provide documentation that they have received an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccination. If the visitor has not received the vaccine, they may bring a copy of negative COVID test taken no more than 3 days prior, or self-administer a COVID rapid test provided by the facility. Visitor will have to wait 15 minutes for results.
  • Visitors will be required to wear a mask at all times during the visit, practice social distancing during your visit and wash hands prior to and after each visit.

(February 21, 2021)

Relaxed Visitation Guidance for Friendship Towers

We know that families are itching for more details about the exciting new guidance that was relayed mid-day on Friday. Our team has been working out the details this weekend and we have some clarification on the relaxed visitor restrictions for Friendship Towers.

We know that residents are going to really enjoy showing families around their new ‘digs’ if they choose to visit in one of the designated areas in the Expansion! Families will also see the progress happening on the Heritage side – new carpet already down in some halls, new paint, new post office boxes, remodeled laundry room, and more. We can’t WAIT till the lobby and rest of the Heritage Wing fully mirrors the Expansion. It’s all happening! 

Updated Guidelines for Visitation

  • Visitation will be scheduled as early as Tuesday morning, February 23, 2021! Visits must be scheduled; please schedule here. 
  • Visits can be scheduled 9 AM –  6 PM, 7 days per week
  • Only residents that have been vaccinated may receive visitors, per guidance
  • Visitors must be screened, have their temperature taken, be masked, sanitize their hands, and show proof of vaccination or COVID test taken within the last 72 hours
    • You may perform a self rapid test and wait 15 minutes if you do not have proof of a previous COVID test
    • Masks must stay up over the nose the entire visit and social distancing and hand hygiene still apply
  • Visitation can take place either in resident apartments or in a designated visitation area in the building
  • Visitors may stay until the end of business hours (6 PM), but must stay in their designated visitation areas that they have been escorted to at the beginning of the visit
  • Up to two visitors from the same household per visit
  • Visitors may bring food, snacks and drinks for residents, however, we ask that visitors refrain from eating so that their masks stay over their nose/mouth for the visit. We look forward to the day when guidance allows us to all share meals together!
  • We ask that visitors please enter from the main entrance with the black awning (the Heritage Wing original entrance), even if loved ones live in the Expansion apartments

We anticipate that you may have questions; please reach out to Angela Goodlett or you can send your question to and it will be answered live in Monday afternoon’s ZOOM. We’ll be discussing the new Memory Care Community and what that means for current residents PLUS going over any questions folks have about the new relaxed visitation guidance.

Assisted Living Memory Care ZOOM Q&A

Don’t miss our live Q/A via ZOOM on Monday, February 22, 2021 at 4pm to answer any questions you may have for Assisted Living Memory Care (or the new relaxed visitation guidance). The link to the ZOOM call is https://zoom.us/j/93862609088.

(February 20, 2021)

LIVE on The Breakdown | Relaxed Visitation Guidance

In case you missed the in-depth conversation CEO Karen Venis had with WKYT’s Sam Dick, we’re posting it here. Karen clarifies the difference between who is getting the this first round of relaxed visitation restrictions and what families and residents can expect next.

Please schedule visits  here. 

Watch the video below for what to expect.

(February 19, 2021)

Relaxed Visitation Guidelines for Assisted & Independent Living

The governor had hinted earlier this year that restrictions would start to ease after long term care communities had a chance to have onsite vaccine clinics with their partner pharmacies. Last night, he announced that new guidance would be announced and indoor visitation would begin again.

“Indoor visitation will resume for those (communities) that have been through the full vaccination process,” Beshear said.

Group activities and communal dining can also resume.

“What this means is once someone is better protected from this disease, we want them to be able to see their loved ones,” Beshear said.

The relaxed guidelines apply to only non-Medicare-certified facilities, which include assisted living, personal care home, intermediate care facilities and independent living. Medicare certified facilities are not covered under the guidelines yet, Beshear said.

That means that the Healthcare Center is not currently included in the new guidelines, but we expect to hear something sooner than later. This is all very good news!

When Will Visitation Start?

The guidance was just released around 10:30 am today, so our team is taking the weekend to scour it and put plans in place for the scheduled visitations! We will have more information here as soon as we have a schedule in place. You can watch CEO Karen Venis on WKYT tonight at 4 and 4:30, live on the CW Lexington with Sam Dick and The Breakdown and also late night on LEX18 – she’ll be answering questions about the new guidance and what that entails for our campus.

You can find the full guidance here.

Healthcare Center Update

We are happy to announce that residents on Unit 2 came out of isolation precautions yesterday and all Healthcare Center residents may resume communal (small group) dining and activities as soon as Monday. Thank you to staff and residents that effectively stopped the spread of COVID. It’s amazing to say that we’ve not had a single Healthcare Center resident case of COVID since Thanksgiving! God is good.

(February 18, 2021)

Announcing Assisted Living Memory Care

We are adding an Assisted Living Memory Care Community to Friendship Towers!

While we are very excited about adding a new level of care to our campus, we know that many will have questions and our hope is to be transparent and as informative as possible with our residents, families and our team members.

We will be hosting a Q/A via ZOOM on Monday, February 22, 2021 at 4pm to answer any questions you may have. The link to the ZOOM call is https://zoom.us/j/93862609088.

If you would, please submit any questions you may have to prior to the meeting so that we can ensure that we have the answers for you.

(February 17, 2021)

All residents from long term care, memory care, assisted living & independent living + staff on campus that chose to have the COVID vaccine have now had that opportunity!

Today was our 6th Pfizer vaccine clinic with our partner pharmacy, CVS. Residents at Forest View Independent Living were overjoyed to receive their second #ShotofRelief today!

(February 16, 2021)

COVID Vaccine Clinic Tomorrow

Folks, we can’t get a break from this weather. Tomorrow starts the third winter storm in seven days – a record for Lexington, Kentucky.

As of now, Wednesday’s CVS clinic for the COVID Pfizer Vaccine will still take place at Friendship Towers tomorrow from 10 am – 4 pm.

(February 15, 2021)

Here we go again with another round of wintery weather! All residents and staff agree…spring weather can’t come soon enough. Thank you to staff that stayed over last night in case first shift couldn’t get in this morning. We’re watching the weather all day and staff brought their things to spend the night again to ensure continuity of care for your loved ones!

Staff Testing at Sayre Healthcare Center

Staff are testing today and Thursday at the Healthcare Center. We currently only have one staff member on staff that is in quarantine and that staff member is doing well, following health department instructions and likely to be released in the coming days. Residents are quarantining on Unit 2 out of an abundance of caution and we have limited the movement of staff from that Unit. So far, no signs or symtoms of COVID on that Unit.

COVID Vaccine Clinic

Wednesday’s CVS clinic for the COVID Pfizer Vaccine will take place at Friendship Towers, February 17th. .

In the event the clinic is affected by inclement weather, we will notify everyone. As of now, the show must go on!

(February 12, 2021)

NO new cases of COVID to report from testing this week!  We are waiting on releases from the health department for 2 residents in house at Friendship Towers and 1 resident who is at Homestead.  The 2 residents in-house are supposed to be released tomorrow, 2/13/21.

Since we don’t have any new cases to report, Friendship Towers employees will go back on a bi-weekly (every other week) testing schedule and test again on Monday, 02/22/2021.

We have the last COVID vaccine clinic scheduled on Wednesday, 02/17/21 at Friendship Towers.

(February 10, 2021)

Vaccination Clinic at SHC Today

We had our 3rd Pfizer clinic today at Sayre Healthcare Center! For most today was their second dose. We love to see that staff that were hesitant at first have come around and are choosing to protect themselves with the #shotofhope!

Out of an abundance of caution, residents on Unit 2 were COVID tested today due to the positive test result of a staff member earlier this week. All residents results were negative. 

Potential Ice Storm

One of the biggest perks about a community lifestyle is evident on days like today. Residents are safe, warm, don’t have to worry about their walkways or driving, have plenty of food & life goes on with generator backups (and backups for the backup generators)!
We are incredibly grateful to have a dedicated staff that were devoted to be here early on Wednesday (and are prepared to stay all night) so that they are able to be here on Thursday morning for resident care!
Residents at Friendship Towers were excited to wake up early and try some of the new menu items on the ‘All-Day-Dining’ menu. “Pinch me – I think I’ve died & gone to heaven!” said Jackie, Friendship Towers Resident.

(February 9, 2021)

Great News for Friendship Towers!

Yesterday, we tested staff and residents at Friendship Towers and we’re thrilled to report there were no new COVID cases. Residents will be jumping for joy to spread out in the Expansion common spaces!

  • Since it’s been 14 days since our last positive case began, we are going to be opening for safe social distancing dining room and activities on Wednesday, 2/10!
  • Chatterbox visits will also resume on Wednesday 2/10! 
  • Residents may leave for outside appointments, however we ask to be mindful of social distancing practices and wearing a mask. 

We are still waiting on guidance about when families will be allowed to visit with family in their apartments.  Anyone allowed to enter due to moving over to the Expansion side will continue to rapid test upon arrival.

Vaccine Clinic at Sayre Healthcare Center

Tomorrow’s CVS clinic is for the 2nd dose of the COVID Pfizer Vaccine for newer Healthcare Center residents and newer staff that have already received the first dose. Please go to the Life Enrichment Center.

People that received their 1st dose on Wednesday, 01/20/2021 at Sayre Healthcare Center are due their 2nd dose on Wednesday, February 10, 2021. 

People that received their 1st dose on Wednesday, 01/27/21 at Friendship Towers are due for your 2nd dose on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at Friendship Towers.

In the event the clinic is affected by inclement weather, we will notify everyone. As of now, the show must go on!

Music Therapy

MEET PAULA! Paula has a masters in Music Therapy & loves to create engagement through song & movement with residents of all levels of care.
She joined the Life Enrichment Team this month & we are so excited to have her on campus!
Great singing, sweet Marie!

(February 8, 2021)

All Sayre Healthcare Center and Friendship Towers staff COVID tested today. Residents of Friendship Towers also COVID tested today. There were no new positive staff cases at Sayre Healthcare Center or at Friendship Towers. We will know Friendship Towers resident results tomorrow.

Sayre Healthcare Center Unit 2 Update

This weekend, a staff member at the Healthcare Center tested positive for COVID. For precautionary reasons and to mitigate any spread, all residents on Unit 2 will quarantine and signs and symptoms of COVID. No one at this time has signs and symptoms.

Labtox will be onsite Wednesday morning to PCR test the entire unit. The Unit Managers are contacting all families to notify them of quarantine, potential exposure and testing. Because the guidance hasn’t changed yet, all residents on Unit 2 will quarantine, regardless of vaccination.

Staff will restrict movement on and off Unit 2 as much as possible, and everyone working on Unit 2 will be in an N95 mask, regardless of COVID vaccine status. To limit movement throughout other Units, Window Visits or Compassionate Care Visits will be paused on Unit 2. due to quarantine status.  This is a temporary pause; we plan to do isolation if no positive cases for 10-14 days.

Staff has been educated on PPE and new temporary changes.

Communal Dining & Activities at SHC

Due to the positive staff case at Sayre Healthcare Center over the weekend, communal dining and activities for all residents is rolled back. We must have 14 days without a positive case before those restrictions can be lifted, so we’re moving swiftly to prevent the spread.

#LoveStillGetsIn | Candy-Grams

Thank you to all that have purchased Candy-Grams for residents across campus. Due to our generous families and supporters, every resident of the Healthcare Center will receive a Candy-Gram to show that #LoveStillGetsIn. If you would like to purchase a Candy-Gram, there is still time. Contact Adrianne to purchase one before end of day on Tuesday, 2/9. Tomorrow!

Each Candy-Gram includes a balloon, stuffed animal, box of chocolate hearts and Valentine heart card. Proceeds go to more courtyard benches for social distancing.

(February 7, 2021)

COVID Update

Healthcare Center staff will be COVID testing this week on Monday the 8th and Wednesday the 10th (instead of Thursday).

SHC staff & residents will also be having our final Covid Vaccine Clinic with CVS on Wednesday the 10th from 10:00am -4:00 pm in the LEC for those that received the first vaccine 3 weeks ago. At this time, we do not have any future vaccine clinic dates so we will be doing second vaccines only. In the future, if this changes, we will send out additional communication. We are hoping for news soon of a continued partnership with our CVS partner pharmacy that will allow them to come back in and vaccinate new residents and new staff.

The small group that we have had join our team that has not had a chance to get vaccinated at Sayre Christian Village have been offered help in organizing a vaccine outside the facility.

We do have an employee that tested positive at the Healthcare Center this morning. That employee had limited contact with residents and we are in the process of contact tracing at this time, as well as working with the health department.

Friendship Towers residents and staff will COVID test on Monday the 8th. If testing goes well, we’ll see restrictions lifting at the assisted living community and start progressing back to socially distant group dining and small group activities. Residents and staff have done an excellent job of mitigating the spread! We are so proud of them all and are praying for great results.

(February 5, 2021)

Residents at Friendship Towers are getting very close to being able to lift some of the restrictions that have been put in place to mitigate the spread of the virus. Residents and staff have been doing a great job and it’s obvious that the mitigation efforts have been working!

There are 2 residents at the Assisted Living building that have yet to be released from the Health Department, but we expect that to come soon.

Both residents and staff at Friendship Towers will be testing on Monday. Staff at Sayre Healthcare Center will also test on Monday.

(February 4, 2021)

Candy-Grams for Residents & Staff

Can you believe we’ve almost come full circle on a pandemic year? Residents & staff have been through a lot, to say the least, so we’re excited to ‘treat them’ with surprises for Valentine’s Day!

Our Life Enrichment Department will be creating and delivering Resident & Staff Candy-Grams across campus. Each candy-gram ordered comes with a heart shaped box of chocolates, balloon, stuffed animal & card.

Send Some Love

  • $10/Candy-Gram: Proceeds go toward the purchase of new resident outdoor benches for extra social distancing.
  • To Order: Email Adrianne to place order by 2/9. You will pay through link provided or you can drop off cash or check to the Sayre Healthcare Center reception in an envelope with To, From, cash/check.
  • Double your order and we’ll deliver a candy-gram to someone that needs extra LOVE! 

(February 2, 2021)

Friendship Towers COVID Testing Update

As a result of yesterday’s testing at Friendship Towers, we are happy to report that we have NO new positive COVID cases to report for residents or staff!

We are waiting on releases from the health department for 3 residents in house and 1 resident who is at Homestead.

Since we don’t have any new cases to report, here is an update for what is next:

  • Thursday, 02/04/2021 – employees to COVID test using rapid test. Residents will NOT be tested for COVID on this date.
  • Monday, 02/08/2021 – employees to COVID test using rapid test. Residents WILL be tested for COVID at 10am using LabTox.

Assuming we have no new positive cases from our next 2 rounds of testing:

  • We can resume activities and communal dining on Wednesday, 02/10/21!
  • Resident COVID testing will only occur in the event we have a resident who reports or has symptoms consistent with COVID.
  • Employees will go back on a bi-weekly (every other week) testing schedule and test again on Monday, 02/22/2021.

National Guard

The KY National Guard will continue to be on-site for the remainder of this week and next week. We can’t thank them enough for all of their help while they have been here, we are so grateful to have them as a resource for us!

COVID Vaccine Clinics

We have COVID vaccine clinics scheduled on the following dates*:

  • Wednesday, 02/10/21 @ SHC
  • Wednesday, 02/17/21 @ Friendship Towers

*CVS will only be administering the 2nd dose of the vaccine at these clinics.

(February 1, 2021)

COVID Testing

Staff is COVID testing today at the Healthcare Center. We have not had a COVID positive resident at the Healthcare Center in months and we just can’t say enough about the teamwork and mitigation efforts of the staff and residents at the Healthcare Center.

Residents and staff are COVID testing at Friendship Towers today as well. Staff will go back to testing on Monday and Thursday at this time. We currently have 3 residents that have not been released yet at Friendship Towers and 1 resident that is recieving care at Homestead.  We are praying for great results from this round of testing.

Friendship Towers Assisted Living Expansion OPEN!

Founders (both current & those moving in from the outside) have the opportunity to move in starting today! It’s a momentous occasion after 12 years of dreaming & planning. We’re thrilled to expand our mission to serve more older adults in the Bluegrass and to offer our current residents more space to spread out and relax.

Residents on the Heritage side of Friendship Towers are taking individual tours over to the common spaces and are looking forward to enjoying them SOON. Group dining and communal activities can take place again 14 days after the last COVID positive test result at Friendship Towers.

In other exciting news, the common space walls have all been painted on the Heritage side and new carpet that mirrors the Expansion is starting to go down today on the 3rd floor. Residents will love to see this progress!

We have also seen the National Guard putting together all the patio furniture that we were generously given from the Kings Daughters and Sons grant. This furniture will go in the covered pavilion and also in designated al fresco dining areas in the new courtyards.

Candy-Grams for Residents & Staff

Can you believe we’ve almost come full circle on a pandemic year? Residents & staff have been through a lot, to say the least, so we’re excited to ‘treat them’ with surprises for Valentine’s Day!

Our Life Enrichment Department will be creating and delivering Resident & Staff Candy-Grams across campus. Each candy-gram ordered comes with a heart shaped box of chocolates, balloon, stuffed animal & card.

Send Some Love

  • $10/Candy-Gram: Proceeds go toward the purchase of new resident outdoor benches for extra social distancing.
  • To Order: Email Adrianne to place order by 2/9. You will pay through link provided or you can drop off cash or check to the Sayre Healthcare Center reception in an envelope with To, From, cash/check.
  • Double your order and we’ll deliver a candy-gram to someone that needs extra LOVE!

(January 29, 2021)

Friendship Towers COVID Testing

We are so happy to end the week on such a high note! We had no new positive cases at Friendship Towers from their resident testing on Thursday, 1/28. There are no new cases on campus and only 4 that have not been released by the Health Department at Friendship Towers.

We plan to test residents and staff on Monday and Thursday of next week. If we don’t have any new cases from the testing on Monday, we will reach out to the Health Department for guidance on continued testing.

Residents and staff have been doing a great job hunkering down. We’ve had the opportunity to take them on one-to-one tours to the new Expansion today and they have really enjoyed seeing their ‘new digs’ with their own eyes! They can’t wait to eat in that dining room or stretch out by the fireplaces.

(January 26, 2021)

Friendship Towers Vaccine Clinic

We are OVER THE MOON to have residents at Friendship Towers receive their second dose of the vaccine today! We are on our way to a return to normalcy and feel so good that our residents will have this protection.

The other great news is that both Forest View and Baunta Apartment residents were also able to receive their first dose of the vaccine last week and this week. Our hearts are full!

We currently have 6 residents with open cases, 5 of which are being treated at other facilities and 1 who is isolating in her apartment.

We will be COVID testing residents at Friendship Towers Thursday at 10am. Praying for good outcomes!

(January 25, 2021)

COVID Testing Today

Staff at the Healthcare Center and staff and residents of Friendship Towers completed COVID testing today. There were no new cases for staff across campus and 1 new positive resident case.

We are happy that we had 2 Friendship Towers residents released yesterday and another Friendship staff member was released today. We expect 3 residents will be released tomorrow and another staff member should come back as well.

The National Guard continues to lend a hand at Friendship and are currently helping deliver mail, deliver groceries, and move furniture for the new Expansion, as well as assisting with setting up the new kitchen.

Vaccine Clinic on Wednesday

As long as residents or staff are not currently in quarantine for a positive COVID case, they may have their vaccine tomorrow at Friendship Towers. If they haven’t been released by the Health Department, then they will take their second dose on 2/17. Once again, the CVS pharmacists will be moving door-to-door to vaccinate at Friendship to mitigate movement around the building.

Kitchen at Friendship Towers Expansion

Tomorrow is a big day! The new HUGE kitchen at Friendship Towers will go LIVE tomorrow! Chef Matt and his team are so excited to get in there and get working in the kitchen with new equipment that will allow them to level up the dining experience for Assisted Living residents.

(January 22, 2021)

Testing Results at Friendship Towers

Today we received the results for Friendship Towers residents’ Thursday COVID tests. While we were hoping for none, we are encouraged that there is not exponential spread. This shows that the mitigation efforts are working and likely the new positive cases were from an exposure earlier in the outbreak. It continues demonstrate that we need to hunker down a bit longer and limit movement through out the building. We are so close to that second dose of the vaccine on 1/27! 

The two residents that tested positive today have been notified and they are deciding with their families which option they will choose for their quarantine.

Fayette County Health Dept, the Kentucky Dept of Public Health, the Dept for Aging and Independent Living and the Office of Inspector General recommended in the interest of public health and safety, that residents choose one of the following:

Short-Term Options for COVID Positive Residents at Friendship Towers

  • Temporary move to a hospital or facility with 24-hour medical care
  • Temporary move home with family for 24-hour care
  • Stay at Friendship with 24-hour care private duty nurse assisting

We have 4 residents at Friendship that are utilizing that 24-hour care private duty nursing already because their symptoms at this time remain mild. Those caregivers are only going into COVID positive rooms to mitigate the spread. The recommendation comes due to the nature of the Assisted Living social model; the structure is not set up for 24-hour care.

Should a resident choose to go home or a higher level of care, a credit for meals & services will be applied to their account, while only rent will still be applied.

We Will Get Through This Together

We know the past two weeks has been mundane for residents that are socially distancing in their apartments at Friendship Towers, while on the flip side, it has been a flurry of activity for staff as they absorb extra COVID-related duties and stepped up cleaning.

The hard work will pay off and we’ll be on the other side of this soon. The resiliency and strength of spirit of #TeamSCV, our residents and family members is inspiring to me. We must remember that:

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.'” Lamentations 3:22-24

Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

(January 21, 2021)

NEW! Food & Drink Deliveries

While we still ask that you please refrain from bringing perishable food or drinks to the Healthcare Center, you absolutely CAN bring your loved one’s food and drink to a scheduled ‘window’ visit because staff will already be there and can help to bring the food back to the resident’s room.

All food that is delivered to the front door must still be able to sit over 24 hours please. We ask this so that we can focus our limited staff on daily care and resident-centered activities please.

Friendship Towers

Residents at Friendship Towers tested for COVID today with Labtox. Staff at Friendship Towers currently tests every day before their shift using the rapid antigen testing. We should know residents’ results within 24 hours. We have learned so much over the last few months since we had the outbreak at Sayre Healthcare Center and we hope that we were able to quickly curb the spread of COVID at Friendship Towers as we moved so swiftly to put new measures in place.

We are still on track to open the Expansion on February 1 and are so looking forward to the excitement from residents as they will enjoy the room to stretch even more now!

(January 20, 2021)

Testing Update

While we still have 12 positive COVID cases at Friendship (9 residents and 3 employees), we are thrilled that there were no new resident or staff cases Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday! In addition, the two ancillary staff members at Sayre Healthcare Center were released from quarantine today. There are no positive cases at Sayre Healthcare Center, Baunta, or Forest View.

All Friendship Towers residents will COVID test on Thursday at 10 AM and staff will test before their shifts. We will know resident results within 24 hours and are praying for great results. All Sayre Healthcare Center staff tested today before the CVS Pharmacy vaccine clinic.

Today, over 350 individuals were vaccinated against COVID-19, almost 1 year to the date of the virus being discovered in the US. Most of the staff and residents received their second dose. Friendship Towers residents and staff will receive their second doses next Wednesday.

We can’t help but be amazed at the way the Lord works. We are so grateful to have received our #ShotofRelief today, three weeks after our #ShotofHope!

(January 19, 2021)

Friendship Towers Update

We are ecstatic to announce that we had NO NEW POSITIVE CASES from the Friendship Towers testing yesterday! There were also no new symptoms from any residents and no new staff cases at Friendship Towers.

We also are happy that the two ancillary team members at the Healthcare Center will be released tomorrow or very shortly.

Vaccine Clinic at Sayre Healthcare Center

Tomorrow is a big day! From 10 am – 4 pm tomorrow, CVS Pharmacists will be administering the Pfizer COVID vaccine to over 300 on campus! Most are getting their second dose, but it will be the first for new residents and staff.

Next week, on 1/27, Friendship Towers will be getting their ‘shot’ at relief when they have their second dose clinic.

Residents at Baunta & Forest View will also be able to get their first doses of the vaccine this week and next at the CVS clinics.

(January 18, 2021)

Friendship Towers Update

We currently have 12 positive COVID cases at Friendship (9 residents and 3 employees).  We had 4 additional resident test positive on Friday, 1 employee test positive on Saturday and 1 employee test positive Sunday.

Because we have several residents exhibiting new COVID symptoms, we pivoted and are testing residents today instead of tomorrow. Labtox performed the tests and we expect those within 24 hours. Staff at Friendship Towers will be rapid testing before each shift this week. We know those results within 15 minutes.

We had a conference call Sunday with the Fayette County Health Dept, the Kentucky Dept of Public Health, the Dept for Aging and Independent Living and the Office of Inspector General to discuss next steps for Friendship Towers.  Based on guidance from these agencies, we will be implementing the following immediately in the interest of public health and safety.

Short-Term Options for COVID Positive Residents

  • Temporary move to a hospital or facility with 24-hour medical care
  • Temporary move home with family for 24-hour care
  • Stay at Friendship with 24-hour care private duty nurse assisting

We have 4 residents that here at Friendship utilizing that 24-hour care private duty nursing. Those caregivers are only going into COVID positive rooms to mitigate the spread.

The recommendation comes due to the nature of the Assisted Living social model; the structure is not set up for 24-hour care.

Should the residents choose to go home or a higher level of care, a credit for meals & services will be applied to their account, while only rent will still be applied.

National Guard

We are thankful that the National Guard FAST team will be arriving tomorrow morning at Friendship, where they will help ease the burden for a thin staff that has taken on additional COVID-related tasks. It is not lost on us that the Guard has been deployed to hold watch over the Nation’s capitol and also our residents at Friendship, both national treasures. We continue to be blessed by our relationships with state and local agencies.

Infection Control

We have partnered with an infectious disease expert to consult, give additional PPE education to Friendship staff and also fit test them for N95 masks today.

Air Purification System to Combat the Virus

This news segment does a great job explaining why long term care facilities, churches, and schools are installing these UV light units. We’re thrilled that the Halo Reme lights are getting installed swiftly today and glad to now offer this state-of-the-art technology for our residents and staff at Friendship Towers.

We have had them at the Healthcare Center for a little over 2 months now and we believe they made a world of difference helping us to eradicate the virus from the building. We have the same expectations at Friendship.

(January 17, 2021)

COVID Testing Schedule

Sayre Healthcare Center normally tests staff on Monday and Thursday. We are switching to Wednesday this week to coincide with the CVS Vaccine Clinic for the Pfizer COVID vaccine.

  • Monday COVID testing ALL campus staff
  • Tuesday COVID testing residents & staff at Friendship Towers
  • Wednesday COVID testing ALL campus staff
  • Wednesday COVID Vaccine Clinic for residents & staff at Sayre Healthcare Center. Second dose for most, first dose for new residents, new staff and staff that have since made the choice to vaccinate.
  • Thursday COVID testing Friendship Towers residents & staff
  • Friday COVID testing Friendship Towers staff

Residents at Friendship Towers will be tested any day, of course, if any symptoms of COVID arise. Friendship Towers residents that are under isolation protocols for a positive case that will miss their 2nd vaccination dose on 1/27 WILL be able to have that second dose on the third clinic date in early February. All health agencies are encouraged that they they have had the first dose already.

Upcoming Guidance

We had a conference call today with the Fayette County Health Dept, the Kentucky Dept of Public Health, the Dept for Aging and Independent Living and the Office of Inspector General today to discuss next steps for Friendship Towers. Based on guidance from these agencies, we will be implementing the following mitigation efforts:

  • Rapid COVID testing for all employees upon arrival to work each shift/day – results in 15 minutes
  • Routine COVID testing for residents twice per week and at any onset of new symptoms consistent with COVID. Our goal is to test residents on Tuesday and Thursday this week and then move to Mondays/Thursdays until further notice.
  • Additional training on proper use of PPE and hand hygiene
  • Staff shall wear N95 masks and face shields at all times
  • More information will be announced tomorrow as we are finalizing our plan as it relates to COVID mitigation efforts

F.A.S.T. Team

We are grateful for our partnerships; we say it all the time! The Office of Inspector General will deploy a F.A.S.T National Guard team to Friendship Towers on Tuesday to help ease the burden of a thin staff.

AMEN and AMEN!

A Prayer for Strength

You are the strength of my life;
You are my rock, my fortress and my protector; therefore, whom shall I be afraid?
You are my shield, my strong-tower and my stronghold.
I will call to You because You are worthy to be praised.
So, Father, I thank you for being my strength and My God in whom I trust, Amen.
— Psalm 27:1b

(January 16, 2021)

Friendship Towers COVID Update

The results of Friday’s Labtox COVID test came in and we have 4 additional resident cases to report at this time at Friendship Towers. We have spoken to all residents and their families and are working with the Health Department.

In addition, we have a second positive staff member at Friendship Towers.

We will be having a nurse come to check COVID positive residents for proper vital signs and good hydration. All residents should be drinking plenty of fluids. Chef Matt and the dietary team have brought in Gatorades, popsicles and prepared a comfort menu for our positive residents.

CONTAINING THE SPREAD

All residents should be remaining in apartments at this time. Our goal is to keep them safe and mitigate the spread of the virus, which is the best defense we have against COVID, aside from the vaccine.

The Maintenance Team is swapping out the air filters for a higher-level filter today and you will continue to see the use of the electrostatic sprayer gun used in all common spaces and in the rooms of COVID positive residents. The sprayer allows the disinfectant to wrap around surfaces for a higher level of infection control.

COVID TESTING UPDATE

  • Monday, January 18 – COVID testing for all staff, campus-wide
  • Tuesday, January 19 – COVID testing for Friendship Towers Residents

If a resident is showing symptoms before Tuesday, they will be tested that day.

Vaccine Clinic

We are very excited that on Wednesday, January 16th, CVS pharmacy will be onsite at the Sayre Healthcare Center to administer their second round of the Pfizer COVID vaccine for Healthcare Center staff and residents. Some staff, new residents and Housing residents will be able to have the first dose of the vaccine that day.

Friendship Towers staff and residents will be able to have their second dose on 1/27.

The staff and residents of Friendship Towers are on our minds and in our hearts constantly. We ask that God fill us with His peace as we trust in Him and Him alone. We will be on the other side of this soon and we appreciate the hard work of our team and residents to mitigate the spread.

Karen Venis, CEO

(January 15, 2021)

Friendship Towers COVID Update

We are encouraged by our residents’ and staff spirit today! While it is an anxious time waiting on test results, everyone is calm and praying for a good outcome.

Labtox, the lab we had partnered with to do the resident testing at Friendship Towers Assisted Living today, was actually able to come earlier than planned. Residents started COVID testing shortly after 9 AM this morning, as the team went room to room and we expect to have results within 24 hours.

If a resident should test positive, the family responsible party will be contacted. Because we are a social model and not a medical model, we do encourage a higher level of care upon positive status so that should a positive resident have a change in health status, they are already where they need to be to receive care. Angela Goodlett, Assisted Living Director, has the resident and staff safety in mind and will work with families if they have to navigate these questions.

If you have any general COVID-related questions, please contact our COVID Information Line and leave a voicemail after the message. SCV COVID-19 Information Line (859-899-0831)

We are incredibly proud of the way that our team is working to prevent the further spread of COVID at the Assisted Living building. We will get through this.

We are dreaming of the day when residents get to relax in their new Expansion living spaces. That day is coming SOON and we will look forward to celebrating the patience & perseverance of these sweet and deserving residents!

“…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

God’s Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

(January 14, 2021)

Friendship Towers

***UPDATED INFORMATION***

We received notification Wednesday that 2 residents at Friendship Towers who went to the hospital earlier this week for unrelated medical issues tested positive for COVID at the hospital.

On Wednesday, we also had a resident at Friendship who showed symptoms consistent with COVID and out of an abundance of caution, we performed a rapid COVID test.

Because the COVID positive resident was symptomatic and had other high-risk factors, we notified the family, and the resident has been transported from the facility and will be treated in a more acute setting.

Additionally today, two other residents presented with symptoms and also tested positive with rapid tests. Residents that may have had close contact have also been tested. No additional residents have tested positive at this time. Please keep all residents in your prayers.

CONTAINING THE SPREAD

We prepared for this day, although we had hoped it would never come. I’m so proud of the way our Assisted Living Director, Angela Goodlett and her staff have responded to these unexpected results. We are diligently working to contain the spread. We continue to keep safety for our residents and staff first and foremost.

We are taking every step as recommended by local and state public health officials to contain the spread. We want to make your loved ones, you, our dedicated staff, and our community aware and reassure everyone that we are on top of the situation.

The safety and well-being of our residents and staff is particularly important to us.

  • Staff will be wearing N95 masks & encouraging residents to wear masks
  • Face shields are encouraged and available for staff to wear
  • Staff should wear and change gloves frequently while performing any resident care activities & increase hand washing and general hand hygiene
  • Only 1 staff member in the RA office at a time
  • No more than 2 staff members in any break area at a time
  • Staff & residents practice good social distancing
  • We are asking residents to limit movement in/around the building
  • Pause group activities or communal dining until further notice
  • Pause indoor/lobby visits for residents until further notice
  • Staff will carry hand sanitizer during their shift
  • We are evaluating transportation for residents at this time but will only be providing transportation for appointments that are medically necessary.
  • Staff will complete an incident report and notify Angela via text message if residents have a change in condition or exhibit COVID symptoms
  • Lobby furniture has been removed to encourage social distancing
  • Residents are asked to remain in their apartments as much as possible

TESTING AT FRIENDSHIP TOWERS

We began testing staff at Friendship Towers today, Thursday, 1/14 and will again on Monday, 1/18. The Health Department has given guidance to test all residents at 3 PM on Friday, 1/15 through Labtox.

*Of course, if a resident is showing symptoms after Friday’s test day, they will be tested. If a resident does test positive, they will be sent out for a higher level of care.

STAFF AT FRIENDSHIP TOWERS

We have had one new staff member test positive today during testing. That staff member is asymptomatic, at home, and cooperating with the Health Department and following their guidance. We will continue to test staff on all shifts till 6 PM tonight. We will update the website with any potential updated numbers and will be in contact directly with any families should a resident test positive.

UPDATES ON THE COVID INFO LINE

SCV COVID-19 Information Line (859-899-0831) Please direct all questions there by leaving a voicemail – this frees up our team for resident care. Our team will be checking those messages several times per day and will respond in a timely manner.

UPDATE YOUR RESPONSIBLE PARTY OR RESIDENT INFO

Responsible parties are being notified of COVID-19 resident status changes via phone call. If you believe any of this information needs to be updated, please email :

  • Resident Name:
  • Resident Phone Number:
  • Resident Email Address:
  • Responsible Party Name:
  • Responsible Party Home Phone Number:
  • Responsible Party Cell Phone Number:
  • Responsible Party Email Address:

Because COVID is incredibly widespread in our county, we know it was not a matter of “if”, but “when” we would have cases at Friendship Towers.

We have prepared for this day and I have the utmost faith that together, we WILL get through this.

Families, YOU are an important part of TEAM SCV and we are grateful for your support. Please continue to keep Friendship Towers in your prayers.

(January 13, 2021)

Friendship Towers Covid Update

We received notification today that 2 residents at Friendship Towers who went to the hospital earlier this week for unrelated medical issues tested positive for COVID at the hospital.

Additionally, we had a resident at Friendship today who showed symptoms consistent with COVID and out of an abundance of caution, we performed a rapid COVID test and the resident did test positive for COVID.

Because the resident was symptomatic and has other high risk factors, we notified the family and the resident has been transported from the facility and will be treated in a more acute setting.

As such, we will be reporting that we have 3 positive cases at Friendship for residents. Please keep our 3 Friendship Towers residents in your prayers at this time.

Covid Questions?

SCV COVID-19 INFO LINE (859) 899-0831 Leave a voicemail after the tone and your message will be returned shortly. Routing all questions through this line ensures our staff are focused on attending to residents.

Updated Protocols

The safety and well-being of our residents and staff is very important to us, and such we will be taking the following precautions immediately:

  • Staff need to wear N95 masks at all times while working
  • Face shields are encouraged and available for staff to wear
  • Staff should wear and change gloves frequently while performing any resident care activities
  • Staff should increase hand washing and general hand hygiene
  • Only 1 staff member in the RA office at a time
  • No more than 2 staff members in any break area at a time
  • Staff should practice good social distancing and encourage residents to do the same
  • Encourage residents to wear masks
  • We are asking residents to limit movement in/around the building
  • We will not be holding group activities or communal dining until further notice
  • We will be suspending indoor/lobby visits for residents until further notice
  • Staff will carry hand sanitizer on you during your shift
  • We are evaluating transportation for residents at this time but will only be providing transportation for appointments that are medically necessary.
  • Staff will complete an incident report and notify Angela via text message if residents have a change in condition or exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID
  • In-person Chatterbox Visits are temporarily paused at this time. We will re-evaluate daily.

Testing at Friendship Towers

We will be testing staff at Friendship Towers on Thursday, 1/14/21 and again on Monday, 1/18. Per health department guidance, we will not test residents unless they are symptomatic/showing signs consistent with COVID.

No new positive cases for staff from Monday’s testing, so that’s great news.

Based on the fact that COVID is widespread in our community, we know it wasn’t a matter of “if”, but “when” we would have cases at Friendship Towers.

I’m extremely proud that we have gone as long as we have without any resident cases in our Assisted Living building. We have prepared for this day and I have the utmost faith that together, we WILL get through this.

Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

(January 11, 2021)

Covid Vaccine Update

Our first two COVID vaccine clinics were very successful – we now have over 300 residents and staff on campus who have their first dose of the vaccine.

We will be having another vaccine clinic on Wednesday, 01/20/20 from 10:00am to 4:00pm for Sayre Healthcare Center staff and residents. For most, this will be their second dose of the vaccine.

Covid Testing

New coronavirus cases leaped in Kentucky in the week ending Saturday, rising 43.6% as 26,427 cases were reported. The previous week had 18,408 new cases of the virus that causes COVID-19.

Kentucky ranked No. 12 among the states where coronavirus was spreading the fastest on a per-person basis, a USA TODAY Network analysis of Johns Hopkins University data shows.

We will continue to test staff twice/week at Sayre Healthcare Center until Fayette County is no longer in the “red” on the incidence map. During today’s testing, we had two ancillary staff test positive. They have very mild symptoms, are home quarantining and following the direction of the Health Department.

Housing staff tested today as well and we expect their results likely within 24 hours.

Please continue to be diligent. Kentucky’s positivity rate is over 12% now, so continue to wash your hands, stay socially distant, and wear a mask.

(January 8, 2021)

We feel incredibly blessed to report that All COVID tests for administered on January 7th and make-ups for January 9, 2021 are negative! Next round of testing is Monday January 11, 2021.

With the positivity rate in Kentucky over 11%, we know that Covid is still a very real threat.

Our next Covid Vaccine date will be at the Healthcare Center on January 20th. Staff and residents will have their second dose and new Healthcare Center residents and staff will have their first dose.

(January 6, 2021)

Today we vaccinate 110 residents and staff that have given consent at Friendship Towers Assisted Living! At the end of this clinic day, we’ll have given the first dose to over half the campus. We could not be more excited about the future of Sayre Christian Village.

(January 4, 2021)

Testing & Vaccine Update

All staff that were tested at the Healthcare Center on Sunday and Monday (today) have tested negative. Praise the God!

The COVID Vaccine Clinic for Friendship, Baunta and Forest View employees & Friendship Towers Assisted Living residents that have given consent is confirmed for Wednesday, 1/6/21 from 10am to 4pm.

With the positivity rate above 11% in Kentucky, we can’t be more happy to have the vaccine clinic so soon. We implore everyone to continue to wash hands, socially distance and wear your masks. We can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but we have some very important weeks to get through before the vaccine is truly effective.

Friendship Towers Expansion Opens in February!

A strategic Assisted Living January move-in means that you could get your Covid Vaccine sooner rather than later and avoid all the trials of cold weather home maintenance, driving on slick roads & the winter blues as well.

We are on a mission to empower our residents to live their lives to the fullest, find enrichment in daily activities and offer social functions that combat loneliness, in addition to keeping them safe. Now is a great time to move-in! We have newly-upgraded Heritage Units available now & the Expansion opens February 1. If you know someone that would make a great neighbor for our current residents that we love, please send have them contact us for a virtual or in-person tour.

Ask about short-term month-to-month leases & short-term respite stays.

Contact Shannon Gordon
? (859) 271-1469
?
LEARN MORE ?? https://bit.ly/33HV0YW
FLOOR PLANS ? https://bit.ly/3axeW13

(December 31, 2020)

Historic Covid Vaccination Day at Sayre Healthcare Center

Shot of Hope

Yesterday’s first Covid-19 vaccination clinic day for our long term care residents & staff did have historical weight on this campus and was an answer to prayers.
Please check out the Facebook page for lots of news coverage and wonderful pictures of the day.

The top picture was taken at our long term care Sayre Healthcare Center building in October at the beginning of our peak COVID outbreak. We were full of anxiety and just HOPING that there would be an end in sight. Blind hope, trust in HIM & prayers that night.

Two months later (it feels like 10 years), and we’re ‘shot full of hope’ and looking ahead to the new year.

We want to thank our board, volunteers & families for the ways that you have loved on our residents & staff. Our hearts are full thinking back on all the ways you have shown your support for this ministry.

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
“Great is Thy faithfulness,”
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

I hope you have a happy new year and we’ll see you in 2021!

Blessings,
Karen Venis, CEO

Covid Testing Changes

As a result of our routine COVID-19 testing this week on campus, we have no new positive cases to report for staff or residents, which is a remarkable way to end the year!

Here are a few important dates to keep in mind as we prepare for 2021:

  • Monday, 01/04/2021  COVID testing for SHC staff
  • Wednesday, 01/06/2021  COVID vaccine clinic for Housing staff
  • Thursday, 01/07/2021  COVID testing for SHC staff
  • Monday, 01/11/2021  COVID testing for SHC staff
  • Monday, 01/11/2021  COVID testing for FT, BA and FV staff
  • Thursday, 01/14/2021 COVID testing for SHC staff
  • Wednesday, 01/20/2021 COVID vaccine clinic – 2nd dose for SHC staff & residents

(December 29, 2020)

Covid Vaccination Clinic Tomorrow

Tomorrow, residents & staff at Sayre Healthcare Center that have given consent will be given the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine, starting at 10 am.

Tomorrow is the day we have been hoping & praying for.

Tomorrow is the first real hope towards reuniting families.

TOMORROW IS ALMOST HERE. 

(December 28, 2020)

I hope you each had a wonderful Christmas and were able to spend time with your loved ones.  I wanted to give you an update on our COVID status on campus – below are our current numbers as of now:

  • Friendship Towers Assisted Living – 1 employee
  • Baunta Independent Apartments – 0
  • Forest View Independent – 0
  • Sayre Healthcare Center – 0

We are reporting 1 new positive case for an employee at Friendship Towers.  We are working with the health department to coordinate efforts for contact tracing and get guidance on additional testing we may need to conduct for residents and/or staff at Friendship.

Covid Testing Update

We are testing all employees, campus-wide today, 12/28/20.  Additionally, residents at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested this morning at this time, we are waiting on results for 2 residents and all other residents have tested negative!

Testing  Sayre Healthcare Center

  • We will test staff at SHC again.
  • We will no longer be testing residents unless they show symptoms consistent with COVID or in the event we have an outbreak.
  • We will continue to test staff twice/week until Fayette County is no longer in the “red” on the incidence map.
  • Starting 01/04/2021, we will move from PCR tests and use the rapid antigen tests for our routine testing – this is due to lack of state funding for PCR testing and the recent guidance we received about testing.

Employees at Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers

  • Testing guidance recently changed and the next testing date will be on Monday, 01/11/2021.
  • Testing frequency will go back to every 2 weeks and we will continue to use PCR tests for BA, FV and FT staff

Vaccination Update

Until more people are vaccinated (approximately 70% of the population), the Governor said Kentuckians must continue to take precautions to slow the spread and save more Kentuckians from COVID, which has already killed more than 2,500 people in the commonwealth alone. People must continue wearing masks, social distance and avoid gatherings.

As of today, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been administered to more than 11,000 Kentuckians, predominantly health care workers. With both vaccines, a second dose is required about three weeks later. Gov. Beshear said Kentucky is expecting more than 202,000 doses of vaccine before the end of the month with the second dose coming for each about three to four weeks later.

Sayre Healthcare Center is prioritized on campus because of the level of care (long term care), meaning the residents and staff will have an opportunity to receive the vaccine first. We are pleased to announce that we have 103 residents and 80 staff members that have given consent for the Pfizer Covid vaccine. We are proud of this group for stepping up to #getvaccinated!

We have partnered with CVS Pharmacy and are scheduled for to receive the Pfizer vaccine as follows:

  • Sayre Healthcare Center (staff/residents): Wednesday, 12/30/2020 from 10am to 4pm
  • Friendship Towers (staff/residents): Wednesday, 01/06/2021 from 10am to 4pm
  • Baunta/Forest View: Staff to receive vaccine 01/06/21; resident date TBD

(December 26, 2020)

We couldn’t be more excited to report that the entire campus is Covid FREE. The final staff member at Baunta Independent Living was released by the Health Department.

Residents of the Healthcare Center and staff from the entire campus will be testing tomorrow. Vaccines will be administered to residents and staff that choose to have them on 12/30 at the Healthcare Center and 1/6 at Friendship Towers Assisted Living. We are still waiting for our vaccination date for Baunta & Forest View Independent Living Apartments.

(December 24, 2020)

Merry Christmas Eve

Residents at the Healthcare Center got a chance to meet Santa yesterday and were overjoyed to receive presents from supporters, Unit Elves and some great community partners!

We are overjoyed to have another staff member released from Quarantine by the Health Department at Baunta Apartments. That means we only have 1 staff member on campus that is under quarantine  and no residents. That is truly a gift!

(December 22, 2020)

We are thrilled to announce that the remaining 2 residents at Forest View Independent Living were released yesterday and 1 resident from Buanta Independent Living was released today.

We currently have 2 employees at Baunta that have not been released by the Health Department as of yet.

Due to the holiday, we will be testing on Wednesday, 12/23 instead of Christmas Eve.

Hope for the Holidays

Every year, we host a memorial service for all residents that have passed on campus. Hope for the Holidays is an extremely touching event and is a way to add closure and healing during the difficult first Christmas without your loved one or friend.

While we could not gather in person, it was important to us and our staff to perform the service.

Please, take a moment to remember the ones that have gone before us this year.

If you would like the star that represents your loved one, please reach out to Chaplain Tyler Greene to arrange a time for pickup. It would look beautiful on your tree for years to come and be a special reminder of the love we felt for your family member.

Follow-Up Vaccine Date Announced

The Covid vaccine shot gets us one step closer to reuniting families and residents at the Healthcare Center.

CVS informed us last night that our follow up date for the second dose of the vaccine will take place on January 20th. 

The first shots begin on December 30th at the Healthcare Center and will take place over 3 days. 

We know that our first date for Friendship Towers will take place on January 6th and we do not have that follow-up date as yet.

We do not know the dates yet for the Independent Living residents at Baunta & Forest View, but we’re praying for news soon!

(December 21, 2020)

LIVE Covid-19 Q&A with Karen Venis

Thank you to everyone that joined us or sent in questions for the Covid-19 Vaccine + Resident Q&A.

If you missed the live Q&A today, we have a recap for you!

Historic Day in Long Term Care

Today, the first long term care facilities in Kentucky began receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. The date that CVS, our partner for administering the vaccine, has given us is December 30th.

CHFS Secretary Eric Friedlander described the day’s events as “gratifying, the beginning of an end, but with the finish line still at a considerable distance.

“After months of battling the pandemic, which has made a tragic and indelible impact on Kentucky’s seniors, given that over 66% of COVID-19-related deaths have been among residents of these facilities, today is as unforgettable as March 6, 2020.”

(December 19, 2020)

(December 18, 2020)

COVID-19 Update

Vaccination DateThe countdown begins! We are over the moon to have been given our first date for vaccinations for the Healthcare Center residents and staff. We are counting the days to 12/30! Please continue to mask up, socially distance & wash your hands frequently. We are SO CLOSE to our target date.

Residents and staff at Friendship Towers have been given their first date as well. After all long term care facilities have had their vaccination dates, our pharmacy partner will administer the Pfizer vaccine to Assisted Living facilities that they have partnered with, including ours at Friendship Towers on 1/6.

We do not have a date for Independent Living communities and buildings yet. We are all waiting closely for more information and will update you immediately. We are excited for the day when all our residents have the opportunity to have the vaccine.

We are hosting a ZOOM on Monday 12/21 at 4 PM to answer any questions family, residents and staff may have about the vaccine. Please join us!

ZOOM LINK: https://zoom.us/j/99788840007

  • Friendship Towers Assisted Living – 0
  • Baunta Independent Apartments – 2 employees, 1 resident
  • Forest View Independent – 2 residents
  • Sayre Healthcare Center – 0

(December 17, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Residents Vaccination Date!

As you may know, residents and staff at long term care facilities are in the first phase of administration for the COVID-19 vaccine, and at Sayre Christian Village, we couldn’t be more grateful for this news!  We have partnered with CVS Pharmacy to administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to our Sayre Healthcare Center residents and staff . We learned late last night that our first vaccination for Sayre Healthcare Center residents  will be on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Friendship Towers Assisted Living Residents will be vaccinated on January 6th and again on January 27th. 

In preparation for our vaccine clinic, we will be hosting a ZOOM session for families, residents and/or staff to answer questions that you may have about the vaccine and also to share important information with you about the vaccination process.

The ZOOM meeting will take place on Monday, December 21, 2020 at 4:00pm.

The link to the ZOOM meeting is https://zoom.us/j/99788840007  and will also be posted on the official Sayre Christian Village Facebook page. There  is no need to register in advance and please feel free to share the link with other family members/friends if you wish.

Please let me know if you have any questions at all (send to ) – we are VERY much looking forward to getting the vaccine for residents and staff so that we can resume our new normal on our campus.  Hope to see you there!

COVID Testing Update

Praise GOD, we are 100% Covid-free at the Healthcare Center. Our last employee was released today and will be back at work tomorrow.

  • Friendship Towers Assisted Living – 0
  • Baunta Independent Apartments – 3 employees, 1 resident
  • Forest View Independent – 2 residents
  • Sayre Healthcare Center – 0

(December 16, 2020)

Surveillance Testing

We are testing Sayre Healthcare Center residents and staff again tomorrow and hope that we are able to report no new cases as a result of that testing! Please note that due the the Christmas and New Year’s Holiday, we will be testing staff on the following dates:

  • Thursday, 12/17
  • Monday, 12/21
  • Wednesday, 12/23
  • Monday, 12/28
  • Wednesday, 12/30

We will continue to test twice/week since Fayette County is still “red” on the incidence map.

Starting 01/04/2021, we will continue testing twice/week but will move from the PCR tests to the rapid/antigen tests. This is based on guidance that came out earlier this week from the state – after 12/30/20, CARES funding will no longer be available to cover the cost of the testing, hence the decision to move to the rapid/antigen tests. More information to follow on this in the coming weeks.

COVID-19 Vaccine Coming SOON!!

In even better news, it is not a matter of “if”, but “when” will be receiving the COVID-19 vaccine for staff and residents at Sayre Healthcare Center!

We received information that we are on the calendar to receive the first dose of the vaccine the week after Christmas, sometime before the end of 2020!

We have partnered with CVS Pharmacy and they will be coming on-site to administer the vaccines for our residents and staff. This is fantastic news and removes the burden from us to handle, store and/or administer the vaccine using our resources.

Over the coming days, you will receive additional important information from me about the vaccine and the steps we will need to take to prepare.

We don’t want to ever have to go through another COVID-19 outbreak again, so we are happy be in the first phase to receive the vaccine!

We will be announcing a ZOOM Q/A session about the vaccine in the coming days.

This Year…

This year has been tough for our staff and our residents, BUT the worst IS behind us – I’m excited to see what 2021 will bring us! I’m grateful that we were able to go through this together. I’m so proud of #TeamSCV. The verse below has become one of my go-to verses during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic:

“Though we experience every kind of pressure, we’re not crushed. At times we don’t know what to do, but quitting is not an option. We are persecuted by others, but God has not forsaken us. We may be knocked down, but not out.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

Blessings to you,

Karen L. Venis, CEO

(December 15, 2020)

We continue to be thrilled that we have not had a resident at Sayre Healthcre Center test positive since 11/23/2020. That’s incredible news!

  • Friendship Towers Assisted Living – no cases
  • Baunta Independent Apartments – 3 employees, 1 resident
  • Forest View Independent – 3 residents
  • Sayre Healthcare Center – 1 employee

Of course, the big topic of discussion right now is not if, but when we will get the vaccine! 

We have partnered with CVS Pharmacy for administration of the vaccine at Sayre Healthcare Center and Friendship Towers.  We are expecting a call from CVS any day to schedule our on-site clinics.  We will continue to keep you posted as we get closer to that point.

(December 14, 2020)

Historical Day in the US

The Covid-19 vaccine was administered to the first front line heroes in the United States. The first Pfizer doses arrived in Louisville today and we expect to have them next week.

Remember, vaccines don’t save lives, vaccinations do. It’s a very complicated process for how the precious cargo rolls out. What we do know at this time is that the Sayre Healthcare Center residents will receive the vaccine before the Friendship Towers residents. When we do know more, we will disseminate that information quickly.

Covid-19 Testing

As a result of testing today, we have no new cases at the Sayre Healthcare Center! The staff member that is the sole remaining employee positive is asymptomatic and should be released by the Health Department soon.

Most all of the campus-wide employee results are in and so far, no new employee cases. We have added a Covid-positive resident case at Baunta Independent Living apartments. We do encourage our independent residents to socially distance, wash hands frequently, and stay masked up when they leave their building. Fayette County is still in the red and we encourage them to stay home, if they can.

Keep hanging in there; we will get through this together. There is a light at the end of the tunnel!

  • Friendship Towers Assisted Living – no cases
  • Baunta Independent Apartments – 2 employees, 1 resident
  • Forest View Independent – 4 residents
  • Sayre Healthcare Center – 1 employee

Holiday Testing Schedule

Things get complicated with the upcoming holidays, so here is a breakdown of what to expect.

  • Thursday, 12/17 – SHC residents, SHC staff and Forest View Independent Living residents
  • Sunday 12/29 & Monday 12/30 – SHC residents & ALL campus staff
  • Wednesday 12/23 – SHC residents & SHC staff

(December 12, 2020)

We are testing ALL staff, campus wide on Monday, 12/14/20 for COVID-19. We didn’t have any new cases for residents or staff to report from Thursday’s testing at Sayre Healthcare Center. Below are our current numbers, campus wide:

  • Friendship Towers – no cases
  • Baunta Apartments – 2 employees
  • Forest View – 6 residents
  • Sayre Healthcare Center – 1 employee

As we receive more information about the vaccine, we will get that communication out to you – I know there are lots of questions as to how the process will work and we are waiting for direction from CVS for our next steps.

(December 11, 2020)

Forest View Independent Apartments Update

As previously reported, we have had 5 residents inform us that they have tested positive for COVID-19 at Forest View Independent Apartments, and 1 of those residents has been released from isolation/quarantine today.

We are working very closely with the Fayette County Health Department in our response and efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 at Forest View Apartments.  The health department has recommended that we offer COVID testing for our residents, and we partnered with LabTox and tested 21 residents on Thursday, 12/10/2020 for COVID-19.  We have received results from those tests today and are reporting that 2 additional residents have tested positive for COVID-19.

Precautions

At the direction of the Health Department, Forest View Apartments will be closed until further notice to all visitors and providers unless there is an immediate health need.  Additionally, the health department is advising residents to take the following precautions:

Residents should remain in their apartments until the next round of testing, which will take place on Thursday, 12/17/20.
Residents must wear a mask when they are not in their apartment.
All public/common spaces at Forest View, with exception to the laundry room, remain closed until further notice.  Please ensure social distancing in the laundry rooms and adhere to capacity requirements that are posted.
The health department is asking that residents stagger use of lobby spaces, mailboxes, laundry, etc.

The Health Department is working directly with all residents who have tested positive to discuss the appropriate isolation period as well as monitor for changes in health condition.

If you have been in close contact with a resident or anyone else who has tested positive, you should arrange for a COVID test.  We will be distributing more information regarding additional testing next week and as things change as soon as that information is available to us.

While residents at Forest View Independent Apartments are not required to notify us regarding changes in health status, including if they have tested positive for COVID-19, we are strongly encouraging that they do so that we can ensure we are taking all precautions that are necessary in order to contain the spread.

Thank you for doing your part to slow the spread – please wash your hands often, maintain good social distancing and wear your mask.  Residents with questions, please contact Vicki Allawati.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(December 10, 2020)

Friendship Towers Assisted Living Updates

Indoor chatterbox visits are back just in time for Christmas! These socially distant indoor visits will begin back on Monday, December 14th, 9am-5pm, 7 days a week. Visits will be scheduled on the hour for 40 minutes each.

We ask that you do not visit if you feel sick, show any signs of symptoms, or of course, if you have been exposed. All guidelines will be adhered to, including all visitors and residents wearing masks, sanitizing hands, socially distancing and temperature screening before the visit. Welcome back!

Sayre Healthcare Center Updates

  • Window Visits are being scheduled again (along with Virtual Visits). Contact Rev. Sara Beth to schedule.
  • Care packages & deliveries can come to the front door again. (Remember, no perishable items because they will likely be held 24 hours).
  • The Beauty Shop is opening SOON! Contact Activities to schedule an appointment.
  • Christmas eCards are LIVE! Send an encouraging message to your loved one today. You can even choose the ‘anyone that needs some mail’ button to be delivered to someone that might need some HOPE that day.

(December 9, 2020)

(December 8, 2020)

Beauty Salon at Sayre Healthcare Center

The big news of the day for our staff was the dismantling of the COVID unit and the way the team rallied to get the building looking more normal in the lobby and Unit 300! Millie Johnson, Housekeeping Lead, and Ryan Williams, Maintenance Director were in before the sun came up to get a head start. The residents got a kick out of watching more Christmas trees go up and all the new action in the building!

If you ask them though, the biggest news of the day was the news that the beauty salon will be opening the weekend!

Window Visits are Coming Back!

When news came from the Health Department that we could release our last two Healthcare Center residents from COVID isolation, we quickly pivoted and reached out to families that already had Virtual Visits planned for this week to see if they wanted to do Virtual or Window. We’re very happy to facilitate these long-awaited moments! If you’d like to schedule a Window Visit at the Healthcare Center, please contact Rev. Sara Beth.

(December 7, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center

As a result of today’s COVID testing at Sayre Healthcare Center, we are reporting that we had NO positive residents and 1 new positive employee at the Healthcare Center.

Additionally, the remaining 2 residents with COVID at Sayre Healthcare Center were released by the Health Department today. As of now, we don’t have any residents in house at SHC under isolation for COVID which is fantastic news and I know, the day we have all been looking forward to! We currently have 2 employees total who are positive at the Healthcare Center (1 from last week and 1 from today).

Because Fayette County is in the red, we will continue to test SHC residents and staff twice/week until further notice.

Baunta and Forest View

As a result of today’s testing, we are reporting that 1 employee at Baunta has tested positive for COVID-19. We are also reporting that 5 residents at Forest View are positive. Baunta and Forest View employees will be tested again for COVID on Monday, 12/14/2020.

Friendship Towers

We currently have no positive cases to report at Friendship Towers at this time. Friendship Towers employees will be tested again for COVID on Monday, 12/14/2020.

(December 6, 2020)

“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” Joseph Campbell

Gov. Andy Beshear announced on Saturday that Kentucky has had its new highest week of COVID-19 cases, even with one day left to report and encouraged Kentuckians to keep fighting.

“With a day still to go, we have set a new one-week record for highest cases in the commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “We are all sacrificing so much right now; we are all tired – but let’s do what it takes to crush this third surge of cases and defeat this virus once and for all.”

“The imminent arrival of COVID-19 vaccines is a monumental scientific accomplishment offering great hope that this devastating pandemic can at last be ended,” commented Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “Initially, though, very limited quantities of vaccine coupled with complicated and changing distribution logistics mean not everyone can have access at the very start. It’s essential that everyone work together and know that all Kentuckians will be given access as rapidly as vaccine supplies, shipping, storage, and handling limitations allow. There is a bright light of hope ahead; let’s all support each other as we look forward to better days soon.”

We will get through this.COVID Testing on Monday

We will be testing all staff campus-wide on Monday, 12/7. Because of the widespread community exposure for COVID in Fayette County, we will begin testing all employees at Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers on a weekly basis (every Monday) until further notice. The Healthcare Center staff will continue to test twice-per-week, until Fayette County is out of the red zone.

In addition, at Forest View (Independent Apartments), where there are currently 5 COVID positive residents that are working with the local Health Department and following quarantine guidelines, we have implemented temporary new guidance. Kentucky has also recently updated the guidelines for quarantining.

At the Forest View Independent Living apartments, there will be a temporary closure of common spaces & common space restrooms, laundry room capacity will be limited, we are offering on-site Covid testing for any residents that want it, we have begun stepped up cleaning protocols (this includes using the electrostatic disinfectant sprayer several times daily), we have restricted any communal resident services, and we are encouraging residents to mask, socially distance, and wash their hands.

While we cannot require it, we do encourage residents at all our independent living apartments to report symptoms or positive cases for contact tracing.

There are no COVID cases at Baunta Independent Living apartments or Friendship Towers Assisted Living apartments. For any independent living questions, please contact Joe Drumm at .

We Will Get Through This Together

Now is the crunch time between the holidays that we knew was coming. The national, state and local community spread is widespread right now and we must be more diligent than ever so that we can keep ourselves and our neighbors safe.

Please continue to wash your hands, social distance, and wear your mask. Please do your part.

(December 5, 2020)

We currently have no positive cases to report at Friendship Towers or Baunta. We do have 3 residents at Forest View who has tested positive and they are working directly with the health department at this time.

(December 4, 2020)

Deliveries to the Healthcare Center

Everyone is wanting to spread some Christmas cheer! Please remember that all can potentially be held for 24 hours before being delivered to your loved one’s unit, so please no perishable food items or drinks at this time. We want to make sure that everyone stays safe from any foodborne illnesses.

Friendship Towers, Baunta and Forest View

We are over the moon to report that there were no new cases after all results came back for Sayre Healthcare Center residents. That is a BIG win for #TeamSCV and the battle that we have been going through at the Healthcare Center.

We currently have no positive cases to report at Friendship Towers or Baunta at this time. We do have 2 residents at Forest View who has tested positive and they are working directly with the health department at this time. LFCHD is in the process of identifying/contacting close contacts and will work with those individuals as necessary for any quarantine/isolation orders.  Residents are asymptomatic and will be isolating in their apartment until released by the HD.

*The tricky part about reporting positive cases for residents at Baunta and Forest View is that both of those facilities are independent living facilities and there is no requirement for the residents to report to us if they have been exposed or tested positive for COVID-19. The cases that we report for residents will be cases that the resident voluntarily reports to us. Of course, we will always notify employees if we have employees who test positive.

Additionally, because of the widespread community exposure for COVID in Fayette County, we will begin testing all employees at Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers on a weekly basis (every Monday) until further notice.

We are getting lots of information about the vaccines and have a call with CVS, our pharmacy partner for COVID-19 vaccines on Monday. As we know more, we will communicate that information to you.

(December 3, 2020)

We are glad to report that we only have 3 residents and 2 employees with open cases. WIN for Sayre!!

Residents and staff at the Healthcare Center tested today. There is only 1 resident still pending, all other residents have tested negative!!

(December 2, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Update

At Sayre Healthcare Center, we currently have 6 residents being treated in our COVID unit and 3 employees who have open COVID cases.  We are anticipating another 3 residents will be released from isolation tomorrow, assuming they remain asymptomatic.  This is fantastic news!

We will be testing SHC residents and staff again on Thursday 12/3/20.

Friendship Towers, Baunta and Forest View

We currently have no positive cases to report at Friendship Towers or Baunta at this time.  We do have 1 resident at Forest View who has tested positive and they are working directly with the health department at this time.

LFCHD is in the process of identifying/contacting close contacts and will work with those individuals as necessary for any quarantine/isolation orders.  Resident is asymptomatic and will be isolating in their apartment until released by the HD.

Please continue to do your part – social distancing, wear a mask and wash your hands.

(December 1, 2020)

Encouraging News

  • There is HOPE and light at the end of the tunnel; the COVID-19 vaccine is promised to us within weeks!
  • We had our 5th DEFICENCY-FREE targeted infection control survey since March! Congratulations, #TeamSCV!
  • The Health Department released 5 residents from COVID quarantine yesterday.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

CEO Karen Venis Comments on Vaccine Rollout

We will be posting information about dates and timeline as soon as we know more about the vaccine rollout, but we’re encouraged by the efficacy of the vaciines and that long-term care is slated to receive some of the first rounds. Watch the interview below for the latest information.

(November 30, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Testing

We tested residents and staff at the Healthcare Center today and we are excited to announce that we have no new COVID positive residents to report at this time. We currently have 6 residents and 5 staff at the Healthcare Center that are open cases. All residents at the Healthcare Center are asymptomatic.

The Health Department released 5 residents today and we are starting to think about exciting things like communal dining and activities again, which is a goal in reach!

However, we must remember that out-of-control local community spread threatens that chance, so we are sharing a quote from Dr. Stack.

“The massive increase of COVID-19 in the commonwealth during November has shattered prior records,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “As we finish the Thanksgiving weekend, we need to show our kindness and caring for each other now more than ever. The spread of the virus is at an all-time high, but science and experience have shown that we are not powerless to shape our future. If we all wear masks, stay six feet away from those outside our home, limit travel and stay home if we are sick, we can put ourselves on a better path, stay safe and suppress COVID-19.”

We are getting closer and closer to the vaccine distribution dates. Please be strong and hang in there. We will get through this together!

GoodGiving Challenge Good Giving Challenge

This year, from December 1-7, we are participating in the Blue Grass Community Foundation’s 10th annual Good Giving Challenge, a week-long online giving extravaganza for the Bluegrass Region. We invite you to join us in our inaugural year of participation and help us reach our goal of purchasing a new transport vehicle.

In 2019, SCV transported 6,604 residents to doctor appointments, therapy visits, shopping and other personal transports. We need a new vehicle due to age and use of the current ones. A new transport vehicle will allow us to continue to meet all the transportation needs of the residents we serve without any interruption.

Donations Have Double the Impact!

The first day of the Good Giving Challenge is also National Giving Tuesday. If you donate on this date (December 1), gifts up to $250 will be matched 50 cents to the $1, for a maximum match of $125. Giving right at 9 AM will help ensure your gift gets matched.

We are Humbled by HIM.

God is working on this campus, right as we speak. Our ministry to older adults must press on, regardless of the pandemic, because the need is greater than ever for godly care of the most vulnerable. Please help us continue to provide hope, housing & healthcare through your donation.

Won’t you join us—and the other generous individuals that support Sayre Christian Village? Set your alarm for 9 AM, December 1 to donate through BGGives.org.

(November 26, 2020)

As a result of yesterday’s COVID testing at Sayre Healthcare Center, we are reporting that NO additional residents and 1 additional staff at Sayre Healthcare Center have tested positive for COVID-19.

At Sayre Healthcare Center, we currently have 13 residents being treated in our COVID unit, 1 resident out to the hospital and 4 employees who have open COVID cases.

We will be testing SHC residents and staff again on Monday, 11/30/20.

We currently have no positive cases to report at Friendship, Baunta or Forest View.

Thank you for all that you do and a special thank you to our team members who are working today to make Thanksgiving a special day for the residents that we serve. I’m thankful for YOU!

Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

(November 25, 2020)

Our residents and staff at the Healthcare Center conducted mass testing today due to the holiday week. Next week, we will continue the normal Monday/Thursday testing schedule, until Fayette County is out of the Red Zone.

Our hearts are rejoicing over the early results today – no new COVID positive residents at the Healthcare Center.

However, sadly, we report the the deaths of two residents. These residents and their families are beloved on campus and we mourn for them. Please keep them in your prayers, as losing a loved one around the holidays is painful.

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Sayre Thanksgiving Prayer

Please keep an eye out tomorrow for a special Sayre Thanksgiving Prayer led by Reverend Sara Beth Floyd. Sara Beth has spent considerable time connecting families and loved ones on the COVID unit this past month and has battled the virus herself. She felt called to lead us in a prayer of thanksgiving and gratitude tomorrow, for we are truly counting our blessings this year.

(November 24, 2020)

Full PPE on All Units

As we hit the flu season and are still in a COVID outbreak at the Healthcare Center, all staff will be in full PPE on all units until further notice. We are so grateful for PPE! Access to this level and quantity of PPE was impossible to think about back in March and April. We thank God for these things and more!

1. N95 Mask
2. Coveralls
3. Hair covering
4. Gloves
5. Foot Protectors
6. Goggles/ (PPE) glasses and/or shield

Reminder | Testing at SHC Tomorrow

We will be testing all staff and residents at the Healthcare Center on WEDNESDAY instead of Thursday this week due to the holiday. Because we are still in a Red Zone in Fayette County, we are required to test twice per week.

(November 23, 2020)

Tasting New Menu Items at Friendship Towers

Every Friday afternoon residents at Friendship Towers have the opportunity to gather (safely & socially distant) to just RELAX in each other’s company, listen to music and recap the week over some light bites!

Last week Chef Matt prepared a few tastes off the upcoming “All Day Dining” options (Bloody Mary Shrimp Skewers, Turkey Club Quarters, and a variety of cookies) that will be available on the new seasonal menu. Rave reviews all around!

Residents will continue to sample new items each week until the Expansion opens and beyond! Keep an eye out for these posts on our Facebook page and watch for special themed pop-up holiday Happier Hours too!

Counting our Blessings

Everyday, we thank God for his mercies and grace. Today, we’re grateful for no symptoms to report for anyone in the SCV COVID unit!

We really do feel the worst is behind us, but that doesn’t mean we will let our guard down.

Please continue to pray for our 19 residents and 5 staff members who currently have COVID. We believe that we will have 5 more residents released soon!

I am so thankful for our team of HEROES, our residents, our family members and the overwhelming support we have received from the community! Proud to be part of #TeamSCV!

If you haven’t had a chance, take a peek at this in-depth interview with Sam Dick from WKYT. It’s amazing the way God is working in our building. — Karen Venis, CEO

(November 20, 2020)

14 Residents Released by Health Department Today

We are happy to report that as a result of yesterday’s mass testing that NO new residents have tested positive for COVID-19!  We are reporting that 1 new staff member has tested positive.

Additionally, the health department has released/recovered 14 residents from our COVID unit today!

Sadly, we are reporting our 5th COVID-related death (female, age 96) – we ask for your prayers for our beloved resident and her family and friends.

We currently have 20 residents in our COVID unit, 3 residents at the hospital and 6 team members who are isolating at home because they are positive.

Today is a reminder that while we do continue to heal, there are some that will not be celebrating this evening. Please, wear your masks and stay the course.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

Holiday Testing Schedule

Next week, instead of testing on Monday and Thursday, the campus will be testing on Monday and Wednesday. We continue to test twice a week as Fayette County remains a Red Zone.

(November 19, 2020)

National Guard at the Healthcare Center

National Guard at Work Gov. Andy Beshear has mobilized 50 members of the Kentucky National Guard to help long-term care facilities across the state in response to the influx of COVID-19 cases. These service members will be a part of 10 different non-clinical support teams spread throughout the Commonwealth.

“The Kentucky National Guard is poised to help Long Term Healthcare Facilities across the state who are operating in counties in the red due to COVID-19 saturation,” said Lt. Col. Travis Carpenter, Kentucky National Guard Director of Military Support. “Our professional team of service members will operate within agreed upon constraints to help facility leadership free their current employees up to focus on the residents who call the facilities home.”

The military team has been busy helping in a myriad of ways, including picking up some projects from our housekeeping services teams and maintenance teams. This assistance is so helpful as our own teams are focused 100% on resident care and projects related to resident care. The military team has been assembling new PPE cubbies, PPE organization and much more.

The residents have been curiously watching them when they happen to see them in the hallways. They are highly interested in the military team! We are so grateful for the partnerships we have with our local and state health departments, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and now with the National Guard.

(November 18, 2020)

Air Purification System to Combat the Virus

This news segment does a great job explaining why long term care facilities, churches, and schools are scrambling to install these units before winter. We’re thrilled we were able to get ours installed swiftly and are proud to now offer this state-of-the-art technology for our residents and staff at the Healthcare Center.

Covid Testing

We will be Covid testing residents and staff at the Healthcare Center tomorrow morning. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as the testing days take a toll on the staff due to additional duties. We will continue to test twice a week at the Healthcare Center until Fayette County is out of the Red Zone. We do not see that happening any time soon with the positivity rates and community spread.

The LeadingAge update for the day announced that the White House Federal COVID-19 Report for Kentucky explained that

“there is now aggressive, unrelenting, expanding broad community spread across the country, reaching most counties, without evidence of improvement, but rather further deterioration. Current mitigation efforts are inadequate and must be increased to sustain the health system for both COVID and non-COVID emergencies. We share the strong concern of Kentucky leaders that the current situation is worsening and that all Kentuckians need to do their part to stop the spread. The Governor’s active measures are commended.”

Thanksgiving Menu

We are planning for a large, from scratch and Chef-prepared traditional Thanksgiving Dinner for residents. Our mouths were watering looking at the menu today!

  • Herb Roasted Turkey with Pan Gravy
  • Beef Tenderloin with Demi Glace
  • Traditional Sage Bread Dressing
  • Whipped Yukon Gold Potatoes
  • Mashed Sweet Potatoes
  • Classic Green Bean Casserole
  • Cranberry & Orange Relish
  • Assorted Dinner Rolls
  • Pumpkin Pie & Pecan Pie

(November 17, 2020)

New Air Purification System at Healthcare Center

We are over the moon about the latest upgrades to the Sayre Healthcare Center and the biggest weapon to date that we have against the virus! We have installed 60 REME HALO air purification units in the air ducts throughout the entire 183,000 square foot building.

A recent news story about the virus fighting system explains in detail how it purifies the air by releasing ionized hydrogen peroxide molecules in the air ducts and throughout the building.

The air purification system essentially neutralizes viruses like MRSA and e-coli, bacteria, and mold in the air and on surfaces, and now has been shown to eliminate the COVID-19 virus.

The REME HALO units were mounted into the air conditioning and heating system air ducts in all four units and throughout the entirety of the building to help us turn our Covid-19 defense into offense as it eradicates the virus in the air.

The same system has been successfully installed in churches, schools and three other local skilled nursing facilities. The skilled nursing facilities saw an almost complete halt to COVID in the building after 14 days.

Expensive, but Worth Every Penny

While the system is incredibly expensive, we feel certain that it’s the right decision to make. We’re grateful that the technology is out there to help our resilient residents and give support to our  weary staff.

It’s also another weapon in our arsenal, that now includes the UV shoe sanitizer, several electrostatic disinfectant sprayers and more.

Hope on the Horizon

Two companies, Moderna and Pfizer, have announced their vaccines appear to be more than 90% effective as clinical trials continue. The Governor said he hopes this great news will inspire all Kentuckians to keep fighting the virus in the months before those vaccines become widely available.

“Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life.” Omar Khayyam 

While it’s easy to ‘wish away’ the time between now and the vaccine and the likelihood of the beginning of a return to normalcy, we remember that this is the day that the Lord has made. We continue to combat the virus in the ways that we can, celebrate life daily and look forward with hope in our heart for the future.

(November 16, 2020)

Secretary Friedlander’s Press Conference Update

During the Governor’s 4 PM news conference today, Governor Beshear and Secretary Friedlander discussed the Cabinet for Health and Family Services Long-term Care Task Force new guidance for the upcoming holiday season.

“We are working around the clock to continue to do all that we are able to combat what is a vicious, highly contagious disease,” said Secretary Friedlander. “Among 382 long-term care facilities with active cases, 38 have at least 15 active cases, a dramatic rise from the 15 facilities with at least 15 active cases as of Oct. 30. There’s a continued need to balance the emotional and mental well-being of residents and their family members and the harsh reality of this pandemic.”

Guidance has been updated with regard to communal dining, group activities and offsite travel, including a recommendation that residents leave a facility only when medically necessary and for needs that cannot be met on site or through telehealth.

Our state associations have been hinting that updates to the guidance to come through any day and we’ll be picking this apart tonight.

Kentucky National Guard

We are grateful for our partnerships at the state and local level. The Kentucky Department for Public Health mobilized a strike team of several nurses and CNAs that allowed our weary staff to fill in the gaps that were left by quarantined staff.

Now, the Kentucky National Guard also will mobilize 10 non-clinical support teams to facilities state-wide. We are fortunate that we will be able to welcome a team of 5 to the campus tomorrow morning to assist with non-clinical needs at the Healthcare Center.

Testing at the Healthcare Center

Testing continues to take place on both Monday and Thursday at the Healthcare Center for both staff and residents and every other week for staff campus-wide while Fayette County is a Red Zone. Our results are updated daily in the widget at the top of this web page and on our COVID-info line. Residents, staff and family members will always be notified if there is a change in condition or change in status to positive for themselves or their loved one.

Please continue to use the COVID-19 Information Line as best way to reach out for an update. Please leave a message after the update and our team will respond when they have a moment of downtime from resident care. You may also request virtual visits in this fashion. SCV COVID-19 Info Line (859) 899-0831 

(November 13, 2020)

Electrostatic Sprayer Electrostatic Sprayer for COVID-19 Defense

We recently purchased new, state-of-the-art technology that we’re able to use throughout the campus for Covid prevention.

You’ve heard about the UV light shoe sanitizer that we have at the entrance of our Healthcare Center, and now we’re raising the bar for our stepped-up Covid housekeeping protocols with the addition of two electrostatic sprayers.

These electrostatic sprayers charge the disinfectant before it sprays out, then the charged droplets ‘repel’ one another and ‘search’ for surfaces. They actually coat and surround objects!

For example, if you were to spray something like an aerosol can of disinfectant on a door knob, the spray would get on the door knob parts closest to you. The electrostatic sprayer gets all the way around the handle and clings there!

We are excited to add to our arsenal and equip our Healthcare and Housing Heroes as they continue their battle to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Strike Team

We are appreciative of the time, energy and care that our residents received from the strike team that has been with us for the last two weeks.

Their team of nurses and CNAs helped to cover shifts and fill in gaps for our weary team and we’re grateful.

Please wear your mask, wash your hands, and follow social distancing guidelines. There is not an endless supply of strike teams out there. They may not be able to cover all needs as the surge continues at this rate across the state. While we wish we could hang on to them a little while longer, we know they are off to help the next community in need…and we pray for that community as we know what that feels like to be anticipating their arrival.

(November 12, 2020)

Tricky Elf

Holiday Pop-Up Shop

This tricky elf needs a home! He’s just one of the special items that will be featured in our upcoming Holiday Pop-Up Shop on Facebook next Monday, November 16th. The residents have been busy working on their ‘crafting for a cause’ items to benefit the Wayne B. Smith Compassionate Care Fund for residents and staff in crisis for the past couple weeks now and we can’t wait to show you more!

Cancelled Chuckles, Chicken & Charity Event

Typically, we hold our Chuckles, Chicken & Charity Comedy Show & Dinner in the Fall as a fundraiser, but we had to cancel this year due to COVID. While the event has been cancelled, the need is greater than ever before. This pop-up shop is just one of the ways we’re pivoting!

Residents at the Healthcare Center and our Activities Director, Mark Sparkman, worked together on this impish ornament!

The residents help to work the clay, shape features, add detail and paint the ornament before Mark gives it some extra ‘Christmas magic’ before it gets baked!

Folk Art Crafts & Holiday Décor

One of the special features of these ornaments is that you can see the fingerprints of the resident on the item. These were truly made with love. One-of-a-kind, perfectly imperfect, resident crafted.

(When the Holiday Pop-Up Shop goes live on our Facebook page, you will be redirected to our donation page for the Wayne B. Smith Compassionate Care Fund for residents & staff in crisis. ‘All items will be porch pickup only.’)

Contact Elise Hinchman with any questions!

(November 11, 2020)

Veteran’s Day Honors

We are proud to serve those that once raised their hands to volunteer so that we might have the life we enjoy today. While our Veteran’s Day festivities are not the same as last year, our Life Enrichment and Dining Services Teams put a lot of thought and time into making the day special.

Follow our Facebook page to see the Missing Man Table tributes, a video honoring our veterans and more. Please take time to read this moving poem and thank a veteran. We are so grateful for their service.

(November 10, 2020)

God is Loyal

Kristen Jones, one of our team members at Baunta sent me the message below today and I think it is certainly worth sharing with our team (thank you Kristen!):

God saying “I am with you” isn’t just a statement about his location; it shows His loyalty. God’s presence is not just about proximity. This phrase shows his *commitment* to us, His *interest* in us, and His *investment* in us. No wonder we can take courage.

Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

Creative & Crafty at Friendship Towers

(November 9, 2020)

Targeted Infection Control Survey

Testing is taking place today across campus, with most residents of the Healthcare Center and staff from all across campus completing COVID testing early this morning.

In addition, we had a 4th targeted infection control survey today. We are happy to report that they exited with zero deficiencies.  This is our 4th infection control survey in a row with no deficiencies.

While we are grateful for this news, we are not out of the woods. The infection rate is now 7.49% across Kentucky and climbing. We are currently in a Red County and the Governor is asking everyone to heed the recommendations for Red Counties.

“We have been witnessing an escalation in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, patients in the ICU and on ventilators statewide over the past few weeks and it is an alarming and deeply concerning situation,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “Now is a critical time for Kentuckians to work together to defeat this virus by following the recommendations meant to slow and limit new cases – socially distance, wear masks and practice good hand hygiene.”

Chuckles, Chicken & Charity Cancelled

This year, more than ever, we could use some laughs. Of course, COVID is anything but funny and the need for funds for the Wayne B. Smith Compassionate Care Fund are needed more than ever. last year, Sayre Healthcare Center was gifted funds to assist 90 residents to with the Medicaid ‘gap’ and 5 staff were approved for funding totaling $125,900.

Please consider a gift that will make an impact this year. If you normally purchase a table or ticket, consider doing that again this year in the spirit of Wayne B. Smith’s call to ‘give generously.’

(November 6, 2020)

(November 4, 2020)

As you can see, our cases are headed in the right direction – we are anticipating that the health department will release an additional 9 residents in the next couple of days. Praise the LORD!

We will be testing all Sayre Healthcare Center residents and staff again tomorrow, Thursday, 11/05.

(November 3, 2020)

Luke 1:37Today we are reporting our 4th COVID-related death of one of our beloved residents at Sayre Healthcare Center.  Behind all of the PPE, we are humans and our hearts are broken but we will keep fighting this battle because that is what we have been called to do.

We are als0 praising God because as of today, a total of 40 of our sweet residents and 19 employees who have tested positive for COVID have been released as recovered from the health department!

As a result of our testing yesterday, we are reporting 4 additional residents and 3 additional staff have tested positive for COVID.

At this time, we have a total of 23 residents and 19 employees who have COVID and they need YOUR prayers for strength, energy and encouragement.

We are so appreciative of your continued prayers and support for #TeamSCV.

Thank you, Karen Venis/CEO

(November 1, 2020)

Testing will take place at Sayre Healthcare Center tomorrow, Monday, November 2nd for all residents and staff. Please keep our residents and staff in your prayers. Coming off the highest week of COVID cases reported in Kentucky since the pandemic began, it is very rare that a person doesn’t know someone that has contracted the virus.

The virus affects everyone differently and nothing is more evident in the way it affects long-term care. We are caring for the most vulnerable and we are putting every effort into preventing the spread and containing the outbreak.

(October 31, 2020)

(October 30, 2020)

Unfortunately, we are reporting an additional resident death today, which brings our total COVID-related deaths to 3 residents. This was of course, difficult news for us and for the resident’s family member, so please say a little prayer if you could in honor of our resident who passed away this morning.

Important Updates

  • We will be testing all staff and residents again on Monday, November 2nd.
  • The state strike team are here (there are 6 employees on board). They have been WONDERFUL help to our team and we’re so glad to have their assistance.
  • We anticipate several residents and employees to be released/listed as recovered on Monday/Tuesday which is encouraging.

Our team is brave and strong and they are in my constant thoughts and prayers,

Karen Venis, CEO

(October 29, 2020)

Praise God!

We are so happy to have had 20% of the residents in the COVID unit released by the Health Department and move out of the COVID unit today. We tested all staff and residents of the Healthcare Center this morning and are all currently standing by tonight. Please continue to pray with us. We pray for good news for our residents and staff tonight.

Wayne B. Smith Compassionate Care Fund

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for everyone.

Our staff and residents at Sayre Christian Village have taken on a large share of tough times as they face down a virus that attacks the most vulnerable and the staff that care for them.

Every year, we rely on funding raised from the Wayne B. Smith Chuckles, Chicken & Charity Fundraiser to help both residents and staff in crisis throughout the coming year.

In 2019, we were able to cover 90 RESIDENT’S MEDICAID GAP AND ALSO HELP 5 STAFF IN NEED FOR A TOTAL OF $125,900. AMAZING!

Last year we impacted so many lives because of YOU.

Folks, we are in a crisis right now. Our yearly comedy show & dinner event are cancelled this year so that we can put all our energy to fighting the virus right here in the Sayre Healthcare Center.

We have Healthcare and Housing Heroes that are showing up daily to the front lines to protect and care for our residents that are themselves fighting off the virus.

Our mission to help those in need has not decreased, it has increased.

We know that you have a great love for our ministry and you’re looking for ways to help.

We invite you to stay safe and participate this year in lieu of the Chuckles, Chicken & Charity event by making an ‘event gift’ that will go directly to the needs of residents and staff that are in a true crisis.

In the spirit of Wayne B. Smith, we humbly ask you to give generously to those that need it most in a year that your gift will make a BIG impact.

Special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Southland Christian Church and our Gold Sponsor Hayden Company.

If you’re interested in making a large gift, becoming a ‘covid-style’ sponsor or would like to help us honor the legacy of Wayne B. Smith in an impactful way that will benefit residents such as matching donations, reach out to Elise Hinchman, VP of Marketing & Development.

(October 28, 2020)

Important Updates & Good News!

  • We are testing all SHC residents and employees on Thursday, 10/29. 
  • We have installed a UV Zone footwear sanitization station at the Greenfield Drive entrance
  • The Office of Inspector General made an unannounced visit earlier this morning and conducted our 3rd targeted infection control inspection.  They spent the entire day conducting staff interviews, performing observations and reviewing our infection control practices.  They exited late this afternoon and noted no deficiencies in our infection control practices!  Congrats to everyone for a job well done and a special thank you to Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing Services for playing a critical role in the inspection.
  • Today, we finalized our staffing plan for the Strike Team that the state will be sending in.  The team consists of 2 nurses and 4 nursing assistants and they will start on Friday, 10/30.

COVID Unit Phone Line

If you have been calling the COVID Unit directly, we understand your frustration at not getting through. During this time, nurses have a priority to resident care first and may not answer the phone, especially during peak dining times and shift turnover. We ask for grace, as we have also experienced phone and internet outages, as recently as Monday where our hands were absolutely tied as well.

Sometimes, when it rains it pours.

Families and friends, if you are calling for a COVID-related resident update or have a question about COVID, we ask that you please call the COVID-19 Info Line at (859) 899-0831. 

That voicemail will be checked every 2 hours, Monday – Friday from 8 – 4:30 PM, and frequently on the weekends. The calls are triaged and are returned by the Social Services team. Social Services will be giving most, if not all, status updates for COVID positive residents.

Our commitment is to resident safety and care, but also transparency. We understand that this time, more than ever, is an anxious time for families of loved ones on the COVID unit. If you do not have your phone call returned in a timely manner, please reach out to Elise at so that she can troubleshoot for you.

Important Communication Info:

  1. COVID Related Questions? COVID-19 Info Line (859) 899-0831 (non-urgent, resident status check, general questions)
  2. Urgent situation with COVID Unit resident – Social Services
  3. Phone Lines Down  – Back Up Line (859) 447-7925
  4. No Response in a Timely Manner – Elise at

If your loved one has a change in condition or tests positive, you will always be notified rapidly.

(October 27, 2020)

SCV Joins National Nursing Home COVID-19 Action Network

The National Nursing Home Covid-19 Action Network is supported by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and in collaboration with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), Project ECHO is launching. The goal is to collaboratively advance improvements in COVID-19 preparedness, safety and infection control. Some of the issues that the network will collaborate on is how to:

  • Keep the virus out of nursing homes where it has not entered.
  • Identify residents and staff who have been infected with the virus early.
  • Prevent the spread of the virus between staff, residents and visitors.
  • Provide safe, appropriate care to residents with mild and asymptomatic cases.
  • Ensure staff practice safety measures to protect residents and themselves.
  • Reduce social isolation for residents, families and staff.

(October 26, 2020)

 

(October 24, 2020)

(October 23, 2020)

Local & State Assistance

  • On 10/22, our Team met with the Fayette Co. Health Department, Kentucky Department of Public Health and the Cabinet for Health & Family Services to review our COVID infection control measures.
  • We have requested that the OIG provide us with a strike team to help relieve our weary team. They have been tied up at other facilities thus far; we are thrilled for the short-term relief cavalry.
  • Each week, Karen Venis, CEO attends the Mayor’s Healthcare Stakeholder call with other local healthcare leaders and they are aware of our increasing numbers and share that we are not alone. Long term care facilities all over the region are experiencing COVID outbreaks due to our congregate settings and the recent surge in cases.
  • The Health Department delivered another round of PPE for our facility just this last week. We are incredibly grateful for our partnerships, especially at the local and community level.

Additional Education & Deep Cleaning

  • We have entered a consultant agreement with Dr. Ali, an infectious disease expert, to provide ongoing education for infection control practices.
  • ServPro has conducted a viral pathogen cleaning of the facility, starting in the areas affected most by the virus. It is a 2-step process that includes an anti-viral mist that wraps around surfaces for a deep & total cleaning. The process is EPA certified and safe for all things, excluding food, but including clothes.
  • ServPro has also installed negative pressure machines on all 4 units, including the  in the Covid Unit to increase fresh air and promote air filtration.
  • The Team is in process of relocating the designated COVID Unit to Unit 3 due to the outbreak being more prevalent already among that population of residents. There is ample dining space, a kitchen, room for residents to spread out and the beautiful courtyard to enjoy. There remaining residents that are COVID-19 free on Unit 3, and they are being relocated safely to rooms that have been ServPro-certified COVID-19 clean on Unit 1.
  • The front door to the Healthcare Center will temporarily be used as the dedicated COVID Unit staff entrance. We have sealed off the building near the reception area to prevent any cross-over. Adrianne and the reception team will be at the Greenfield Drive Human Resources and Outpatient Therapy Entrance.

How will I know if my loved one gets COVID or condition worsens? 

Rest assured, responsible parties are notified right away in the event of new COVID symptoms, change in condition or positive case. Going forward, all responsible parties will receive an email with positive or negative results when COVID test results come in. If a resident is positive, you will also receive a phone call shortly after from our team.

Celebrate the wins, big & small!

  • We have staff and residents recovering and being released by the Health Department from quarantine. The staff celebrates each one!
  • Resident friends that haven’t been able to socialize with each other due to COVID social distancing measures over the past months have been reunited in the COVID Unit, where they DO get to congregate! It brings tears to your eyes.
  • Our team is being forged by fire and we are bonding through the crisis. I’m so proud of this ministry.
  • Our families and communities are supportive and giving. SCV is on a lot of prayer lists!

Simplified communication channels

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we shift resources and staff to infection control during the COVID outbreak at the Healthcare Center and to the additional care necessary for COVID positive residents.

Clinical staff in the COVID unit are assessing each resident very often, and that takes an incredible amount of time due to the number of positive cases currently. All other staff are taking on additional tasks to cover for those staff that are quarantined.

COVID INFO LINE – (859) 899-0831

Please direct all non-urgent questions here. Voicemails can be left after the daily update. The line is monitored regularly (between 8 – 5 PM) and messages will be triaged & returned.

BACK UP LINE – (859) 447-7925

Please use this phone # if calls are not going through. Occasionally, Windstream will cut a fiber & phone lines will fail for a short time.

DELIVERIES

The Health Department has asked us to limit movement in the building, which includes deliveries. Please limit all deliveries & restrict food/drinks for a brief time. Items *may* not be delivered for 24 hours. Deliveries will go to the Greenfield Drive entrance. The main SHC doors will be the temporary COVID staff entrance.

eCARDS 

Free, easy, safe and delivered directly digitately to the unit to limit movement, usually within 24 hours.

VIRTUAL VISITS

Schedule with Adrianne at (859) 271-9000 or if resident is in COVID unit, please leave a request on the COVID Info Line.

(October 22, 2020)

COVID Response Plan Review

Our Healthcare Administrator, CEO and clinical team had a call with our state and local public health officials today to review our COVID response plan.

We are also identifying additional steps we will need to take in the event we have more positive cases as a result of this morning’s mass testing – rest assured, we have a solid plan in place that we will continue to do everything we can to keep everyone healthy and safe.

We are #TeamSCV

Many of you have seen that we have turned the Facebook profile picture green to honor the unfortunate COVID-related passing of a beloved member of our SCV family. For over 7 months, we have largely been able to stave off this beast, but now it is in our building and we are drawing on the strength of God, our fellow team mates, families and community.

The team has bonded over the last months through this hardship and a week like this will continue to strengthen our unity. Today we took a brief moment to thank our team with boxed Chik-fil-a lunches and encouraging words this Thankful Thursday, before diving back into work.

“I can do all things through Christ
who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Sayre Christian Village Reports First COVID-19 Related Death

Lexington, KY– As Sayre Christian Village works to combat the spread of COVID-19 at the Healthcare Center, they report the death of a resident (Female, age 75) in connection with this disease.Green COVID Logo

The campus is lit green every evening for all those that have passed from COVID-related deaths in Kentucky. Today, SCV will also be turning their logo green on social media for the first time to honor their beloved resident. Chaplain Tyler will be holding a moment of silence and community prayer at 4 PM. We hope you will join us virtually on Facebook during that time. 

There are 21 residents at the Healthcare Center who are currently testing positive for the virus (19 of which are asymptomatic or experiencing very minor symptoms and 2 who are being treated at a local hospital out of an abundance of caution). There are 10 staff currently testing positive. To date, there have been no other COVID-19 related deaths on campus and all residents and staff at the other three buildings on campus are COVID-free.

“We have prepared for this day, although we hoped it would never come. I’m incredibly proud of the way our staff have responded to this swiftly moving, invisible disease. The way they have pivoted from standing guard against COVID to an all-out war against the spread inside is admirable,” said Karen Venis, CEO.

“You cannot possibly imagine the feeling when the test results start coming in and you see your SCV family, both residents and staff, testing positive for COVID. You want to cry, but you move…you just MOVE and put the response plan in motion, no matter how much time or resources it takes, knowing that we will sleep later.”

Residents and staff are undergoing PCR testing at the Healthcare Center twice per week, per local, state and federal mitigation guidance at the direction of our Medical Director, Dr. Richard. Because residents and staff are often asymptomatic, while they are screened and monitored carefully for any signs or symptoms of the disease, it is often not until a positive test result that COVID is even suspected in an individual.

“The disease is on the rise in Kentucky. It has always been a matter of when, not if it would infiltrate our campus. No congregate setting is invincible; we often forget that our Healthcare Heroes are not superhuman. More than ever, we need the community to rally in support of us. Our staff, residents and families need encouragement, we need prayers for strength, energy and perseverance,” said Venis.

All COVID positive residents have been relocated to the designated COVID unit and are being monitored for change in condition or new symptoms. SCV is following protocols identified by CHFS, CMS and CDC to ensure their safety and well-being.

SCV is communicating all updates to residents, families and employees through one-call mass notifications and phone calls. They will be providing on-going updates via the webpage (www.sayrechristianvillage.ord/news), COVID-19 Information Line (859) 899-0831 and social media channels for families, media, and the greater community.

Sayre Christian Village continues to offer transparency and every assurance to residents, their families and staff that they will be following all recommendations and will act in the best interests of the entire community.

Moment of Reflection and Prayer with Chaplain Tyler

(October 19, 2020)

“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

New Seasonal Fall eCards

Fall eCards

Brighten someone’s day with a quick pick me up! eCards are free and easy. You can send one right from your desk at work. We try to deliver within 24 hours to residents or staff.

While in-person Compassionate Visits and Chatter Box Visits at the Healthcare Center are temporarily paused to allow our team to put all energy to resident care and infection control, we do have Virtual Visitations currently happening. If you would like to schedule one, please contact Adrianne at (859) 271 – 9000 or .

(October 18, 2020)

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Covid Testing at Sayre Healthcare Center on Monday

All Sayre Healthcare Center residents and staff will be tested tomorrow, 10/19/20. We continue to follow our approved Covid-19 mitigation plan to prevent and reduce the risk of transmission, in accordance with CDC, state and local guidance.

Pray with Us

“The Lord bless you
and keep you;
the Lord make His face shine on you
and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn His face toward you
and give you peace.”’ Numbers 6:24-26

We encourage you to join us at our first ever ZOOM Sayre Prayer Circle on Monday, October 19th at 12:00 pm. We will be praying for our campus, families and staff in a short, encouraging and uplifting 15 minute virtual prayer circle at lunchtime. We covet your prayers, especially now. If you can’t join us ‘in-person’ tomorrow, please keep us in your daily prayers.

(October 17, 2020)

We encourage you to join us at our first ever ZOOM Sayre Prayer Circle on Monday, October 19th at 12:00 pm.

(October 16, 2020)

We will get through this.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Communication from Sayre Christian Village 

For the foreseeable future, all communication for resident and staff COVID positive updates will take place here on the website and on the COVID-19 Information Line (859) 899-0831, by 5 pm each day.

You may always leave a voicemail on the COVID-19 Information Line should you have a question. It will be followed up with in a timely fashion.

We will continue to keep you updated.  We will be having a call with the OIG, the Fayette County Health Department and the Kentucky Dept of Public Health to ensure that we are taking every precaution to contain the spread.

Deliveries to the Healthcare Center 

We are asking families to please try to limit deliveries to the Healthcare Center. If you do have a delivery, we hope you understand that it *may* be 24 hours before delivery to a resident.

Because we’ve had four new cases, we are needing all staff to focus on resident care at this time.

In-person Visitation 

There will be a brief halt to in-person & chatterbox visitation to allow our teams to focus on resident-centered care. Their safety is our primary concern and we need all available hands to carry the load. During this time, end-of-life visits will still be allowed.

If you feel there is a dire need for an in-person visit that is not end-of-life qualifying, please contact VP of Healthcare Services, Ann Reed at or (859) 514-0043. This pause will be evaluated daily and we will return to safe, compassionate in-person visits as soon as we’re able to do so.

(October 15, 2020)   

During our facility wide testing for COVID at Sayre Healthcare Center on 10/08, we had two employees test positive. All residents and employees were tested again on Monday, 10/12/20 and we received results that we had three residents test positive and three additional employees test positive. We have since had two additional positive results, for a total of 10 current cases.

Of the five residents, three are asymptomatic and being cared for on our dedicated COVID unit and two residents are being treated at our local hospitals out an abundance of caution. The residents are from units 100, 200, and 400. Of the 5 staff, one is symptomatic and four are asymptomatic. All staff are cooperating with the local health department and quarantining at home.

Because we have the new cases, our local health officials advised us to test all residents again, and that is taking place now.  We are also in the process of testing all staff as well.  All Healthcare Center staff in resident care areas are wearing protective eye wear, have been assigned N95 masks, and have additional PPE as needed depending on resident care area or room. We continue to follow our approved Covid-19 mitigation plan to prevent and reduce the risk of transmission, in accordance with CDC, state and local guidance.

Heroes Work Here

While the past couple of days have been incredibly tough for our ministry, our staff has risen to the challenge and I’m so proud of them! We will be providing additional compensation under the Sayre CARES Program – in summary, all SCV employees who are primarily assigned to the Sayre Healthcare Center will be eligible to receive additional compensation until further notice.

Sayre Prayer This is the day that we have prayed that wouldn’t come for our ministry, but also the day that we have prepared for.

I’m asking you to pray for our staff, our residents, family members, our providers and our leadership team – we need every single prayer we can get at the moment. In fact, we encourage you to join us at our first ever ZOOM Sayre Prayer Circle on Monday, October 19th at 12:00 pm.

We will continue to be transparent and let our families, staff and residents know when we have more news to share. Thank you, #TeamSCV.

God’s Blessings,
Karen Venis, CEO

(October 14, 2020)

Psalm 130:5  I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope;

Keep Sayre Christian Village in your prayers as we get ready for another round of campus-wide testing on Thursday. Currently we have 8 positive COVID-19 cases at the Sayre Healthcare Center, 3 of those 8 are residents.

Keep our positive cases in your prayers. Keep the families of those that are positive in your prayers. Lift each other up!

(October 13, 2020)

SCV COVID-19 Testing Update

All residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, 10/12/20.

We are reporting 3 residents who have newly tested positive, all other residents have tested negative. 

2 of the residents are asymptomatic and have been relocated to our designated COVID unit and 1 resident is exhibiting symptoms.  Out of an abundance of caution, that resident is being treated at one of our local hospitals.

We also have 3 employees who have newly tested positive. 

This is in addition to the 2 employees who tested positive last week who continue to test positive at this time.  That is a total of 8 current cases at Sayre Healthcare Center.

None of the employees who have tested positive are working at this time and all but 1 remain asymptomatic.

We are working with our medical director, our local and state public health officials to ensure we are taking every measure to minimize the spread of COVID in our facility.  We will be testing all staff again on Thursday, 10/15 and all staff and residents on Monday, 10/19.

For more information, you may call our COVID information line at 859-899-0831 and leave a voicemail after the tone. Your message will be responded to shortly.

We also ask that you continue to pray for our ministry during this time.  Thank you, Karen Venis/CEO

Sayre Christian Village updates our COVID-19 Action Plan frequently. 

  • New “Mask Up, #TeamSCV” posters have been placed around the SHC
  • New social distancing floor decal reminders have been placed throughout the SHC.
  • Staff are wearing N95 masks while performing direct resident care at the Healthcare Center, as well as eye goggles.
  • All employees, vendors, visitors and residents/patients perform a Wellness and Travel screen upon entrance to the buildings on campus.
  • All residents are screened for symptoms during each shift.
  • Our Medical Director has been frequently reviewing resident cases with our team.
  • Employees who test positive  follow  CDC  guidelines for self-isolation and work hand-in-hand with the local Health Department.

Octoberfest Happenings across Campus

Stay tuned for more fun pictures! Residents at Friendship Towers get in on the fun next week as host a weeklong celebration.

There are fun arts and crafts being made – everything from German ornaments to German hats!

Both the Healthcare Center and Friendship Towers will have a special Octoberfest Dinner on October 22nd with German Vegetable Soup, Smoked Pork Loin Braised with Kielbasa, Saurkraut and Caraway, Potato Pancakes & Braised Red Cabbage. Top it all off with German Chocolate Cake!

(October 12, 2020)

We have no new positive COVID cases to report today. We are required to test staff campus-wide (and also Healthcare Center residents today due to the 2 new positive Healthcare Center employee COVID results from last Monday).

Compassionate Visit at the Healthcare Center

We noticed that there were some things that we needed to re-educate on to make sure everyone follows the intention of the guidance, keeps infection control standards high, and limits movement throughout the building. Thank you for your patience!

At Each Compassionate Visit

  • Temperature taken at digital kiosk. We have added another kiosk at the Greenfield Dr. entrance so that you do NOT have to go to the main entrance first if you are scheduled for an outdoor visit.
  • Fill out attestation form (please read carefully each time)
  • Put on a clean/fresh medical mask (provided by SCV at each visit). Mask must be worn at all times and cover the nose & mouth while in the facility.
  • Sanitize hands directly after putting on mask
  • You will then go to the Reception Desk to check-in (if you are at the Greenfield Dr. entrance, you will now be checked-in right there).
  • You must be 18 or older for a Compassionate Visit. No exceptions please – Window Chatterbox or Virtual Visits are the option for under 18.

Bringing Outside Food to the Compassionate Visit

  • Visitors can bring food for residents during their visit. However, visitors are asked to leave food & any drinks for themselves at home. Drinking or eating would cause the mask to be lifted and would not follow the guidance. Our residents are not currently allowed to eat communally with their friends at this time, so we ask that all visitors also adhere to this infection control practice.

Outdoors (preferred)

  • Limit 2 visitors per outdoor visit
  • Stay on opposite ends of the 6-foot table
  • If mask comes off the visitor(s), unfortunately the visit will be ended.

Indoor

  • Limit 1 visitor per indoor visit
  • Visitor will be escorted directly to the resident room or to the assigned location for semi-private room resident visitation to limit movement inside the building.
  • Please ONLY use call buttons to request assistance from the staff. Visitors are not allowed at the nurses’ stations or any other areas for infection control purposes.
  • If mask comes off the visitor, unfortunately the visit will be ended.

(October 10, 2020)

SCV COVID-19 Testing Update

In accordance with local and state public health guidance, all employees at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on Thursday, 10/08.  We do have 2 new positive employee cases to report as a result of that round of testing.  Both employees are asymptomatic and have been tested again to confirm the results.  As a reminder, because we have had new positive cases, all employees (campus-wide) and residents at Sayre Healthcare Center will be tested again on Monday, 10/12.

(October 9, 2020)

We have one new positive Employee case at the Sayre Healthcare Center. The new positive staff member is quarantining at home, asymptomatic and working with our team and the health department on contact tracing. All other employees and staff are negative.

We will be testing all staff campus wide and Sayre Healthcare Center residents on Monday, 10/12/20. Because we have a new positive case, communal dining & activities and in-person visits (aside from Compassionate Care visits), will not take place at this time.

Fayette County has dropped to the “orange” zone on the COVID-19 incident map.

Sayre Prayer Circle ZOOM

Join fellow family members, residents, staff, volunteers, and community members VIRTUALLY for a quick & uplifting jumpstart to your week.  Spend a few quiet moments of your Monday focusing on Him and the blessings in our lives to set the tone for your week.

Reverend Sara Beth will lead us in prayer for the following & more:

Above all, praise God for the ways in which he has watched over this campus for over 35 years. He is with us, as always, during these COVID-19 visitor restrictions.

Pray for our residents and families as they yearn to be together again.

Pray for our staff and lift them up, as they navigate a new normal at work & at home.

Pray for wisdom for our leaders, both on and off campus.

Pray for any special prayer requests you might have sent in privately to Reverend Sara Beth ahead of time or publicly at the end of her prayer.

Prayer WORKS. If you can’t join us virtually that day, keep us in your daily prayers.

ZOOM INFORMATION:

Topic: ZOOM Sayre Prayer Circle
Time: Oct 19, 2020 12:00 PM Eastern

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99387714379?pwd=VDBTNEEwQzY0WmVlZEVUZzczWjh2Zz09

Meeting ID: 993 8771 4379
Passcode: 9Q2Zw8

Love Conquers All

(October 7, 2020)

We have no new positive cases of COVID to report for residents or staff as a result of the COVID testing we did earlier this week on Sunday/Monday.

Because Fayette County is still in the “red” zone on the COVID-19 incident map, we are required to test SHC staff again tomorrow, Thursday, 10/08. We will also be testing all staff and residents of the Healthcare Center again on Monday, 10/12.

As always, please let us know if you have any questions at all. Anyone can call the SCV Covid-19 Info Line at 859-899-0831 and leave a voicemail. It will be returned promptly Monday – Friday.

(October 6, 2020) 

There are no new Covid cases to report today. The test results that have come in so far are all negative, praise the Lord!

Compassionate Care Visits

Compassionate Care Visits began at the Healthcare Center today, along with continued Chatter Box (window visits) and Virtual Visits. If you have questions about scheduling any kind of visit at the Healthcare Center, please contact Adrianne at or call 859-271-9000 Monday – Friday. It can get confusing for where to go and how to schedule at the appropriate time for your loved one. We are here to help! 

Remember, requesting an outdoor visit is a great option for Compassionate Care Visits right now because the weather is BEAUTIFUL and residents love to be outside. We do have outdoor heaters to keep them comfortable under the pop-up canopies on Greenfield Dr. as well.

If you have a question about if your loved one qualifies for a Compassionate Care Visit under the Kentucky guidance, the social worker for your loved one will be able to talk through the guidance with you.

(October 5, 2020) 

There are no new Covid cases to report as of today! We are conducting mass testing for the residents and staff of Sayre Healthcare Center today.

We will be administering flu vaccines for all staff and residents as required by October 15th.

(October 2, 2020) 

There are no new Covid cases to report from the Sayre Healthcare Center staff testing on 10/1/20.  We will send out notifications only if we receive a new positive case.

We will be administering flu vaccines for all staff and residents as required by October 15th.

We will be testing all SHC residents and staff again on Monday, 10/05/20.

(September 30, 2020) 

We have one new positive staff case at the Healthcare Center. This staff member was reported positive yesterday and has been following protocol. All other campus staff and residents are negative. Healthcare Center full time staff will test again on 10/1.

If you missed the chance to participate in the LIVE ZOOM call with Karen Venis, CEO and families on Monday, here is playback video.

Many have had questions about Compassionate Care Visits. If you have a question, you can always reach out to the COVID-19 Information Line and leave a message after the weekday update. Messages are returned shortly. Or, you can speak to the social worker for the corresponding unit directly. The team is meeting on Thursday to finalize details.

(September 29, 2020) 

We have one new staff COVID positive case to report at the Healthcare Center. All other campus staff and residents are negative. 

The new positive staff member is quarantining at home, asymptomatic and working with our team and the health department on contact tracing.

Unfortunately, that does ‘reset our clock’ for in-person visits, communal dining, and activities. We will need to be 14 days with no new cases at the SHC and be in the green or yellow on the incidence map for Fayette County.

However, the team is working on the plan for compassionate care, in-person outdoor or indoor visits that will be available in the near future. If you have a question about whether your loved one qualifies for a compassionate care visit under the new guidelines, please contact the social worker for the corresponding unit.

The new Kentucky guidelines are located here.

Please pray for the Healthcare Center as we continue stepped up cleaning and infection control, contact tracing, educating and reviewing guidelines and protocols with staff.

(September 28, 2020) 

There are no new Covid cases to report as of today. We are conducting mass testing for the entire campus staff and also for the residents of Sayre Healthcare Center today. We will be testing later in the week as well (for staff only) at the Healthcare Center since Fayette County was in the red (Level III) category on the map as of Thursday September 24th.

Karen Venis, CEO will explain all this and more during today’s ZOOM Q&A.

Don’t forget! There’s still time to send in your questions to be answered LIVE. Send questions to .

NOTE: Karen references the new guidance several times in the ZOOM.

If you couldn’t make it LIVE today, you can watch the recording here on Facebook:

(September 25, 2020) 

Scheduling Virtual & Chatter Box Visits

We want to always ensure that you have the best experience scheduling visits with your loved ones. There have been recent technical difficulties with the scheduling app we use for scheduling visits at the Healthcare Center. Until further notice, all Chatter Box & Virtual Visits will be scheduled by calling 859-271-9000 or emailing Adrianne Nichols.

“All You Need To Know About In-Person Visits & Testing” Q&A ZOOM

We encourage you to join us on Monday at 3 PM on September 28th for an interactive ZOOM with CEO Karen Venis. We understand that there are many questions about the new Kentucky guidance that just came out six days after the CMS guidance regarding in-person and outdoor visitation, etc. It is a LOT to pick through and our team has been working diligently on the new plan.

Families of Healthcare Center residents will be receiving a letter in the mail tomorrow that lays out the new information as it stands today. Both state associations are working to clarify the new guidance as we speak. Please send us your questions to and Karen and will answer those LIVE.

ZOOM Information

Join Zoom Meeting

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Meeting ID: 922 8659 6889

Passcode: 589107

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Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adO9BRwQbZ

(September 24, 2020)

Here is a quick update from this week’s round of COVID-19 testing at the healthcare center:

• NO NEW positive cases to report!
• All residents tested negative
• We have just a handful of staff still pending at this time

We will be testing ALL staff campus wide on Monday, 09/28/20. We will also be testing all residents at SHC on Monday, 09/28/20 as well.

We have received new guidance from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and it looks like because of the current positivity rate in Fayette County, we may have to test employees twice next week.

We will receive confirmation of that tonight at 8pm. IF we have to test twice next week, we will test again on Thursday, 10/01. We are working through the guidance now as it just came out and our team is picking that apart.

Thank you for your continued efforts to keep our campus safe, we appreciate it so much!

(September 23, 2020)

COVID Testing Update

Residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center underwent COVID testing Monday, 9/21. Results so far are as follows:

  • 168 SHC staff are negative
  • 26 SHC staff are pending results
  • All SHC residents, except for 2 pending, are negative

(September 22, 2020)

COVID Testing Update

Residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center underwent COVID testing yesterday, on 9/21. Results so far are as follows:

  • 142 SHC staff are negative
  • 60 SHC staff are pending results
  • All SHC residents, except for 2 pending, are negative

We will test again, campus-wide for staff and for SHC residents on Monday, September 28th. If our results are all negative at the Healthcare Center, we will have fulfilled our 14 day threshold of no new positive results and, according CMS guidance, we will be able to conduct in-person indoor visitation at the Healthcare Center on October 1st. Keep praying for our residents, staff and families. We are looking forward to having our families back inside these doors, safely.

(September 17, 2020)

NEW CMS Guidance

We are SO EXCITED about the new guidance that came out from CMS! We got it in hand this morning and have already started to figure out how this works for the Healthcare Center and our families and residents.

Folks, rejoice. This news is a big answer to prayers. Stay tuned for more concrete news as we pick through this, but here is the exact guidance from CMS.

(September 16, 2020)

COVID Testing Update

All residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, 09/14/2020.

All SHC residents have tested negative.  

We have 2 new SHC employees testing positive and 12 employees who are still pending at this time.

Both Sayre Healthcare Center employees who tested positive are asymptomatic and we are working with our local health department to follow the protocol for a new positive case.

All other employees have tested negative.

Because we have new positive cases, all employees and residents will be tested again on Monday, 09/21/2020.

Art Therapy at Sayre Healthcare Center

Mark Sparkman, Activity Director at Sayre Healthcare Center, says

“I have always enjoyed spending time with older adults. I had a special bond with my grandparents; they taught me so much about the world and the real Appalachia culture that is nearly extinct. They were very hard workers and just good honest people.”

Mark loves empowering our residents to CREATE. “I love to see how calming a project can be for them. I love to see their smiles of accomplishment and sense of pride.”

His  art (and art therapy classes here at SHC) are inspired mostly by nature.

Mark says he gravitated towards art really as soon as he could hold a brush or a crayon. He was encouraged a lot by his parents and eventually studied at the Pratt Art Institute in NY, where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree.

Church Services at Baunta and Friendship Towers

Chaplain Tyler is thrilled to announce that in-person Church services, following communal guidelines, will begin on Sunday, September 20th. Residents will be assigned a group and attend at their assigned time if they want to participate. We are glad to worship together again in person SOON!

(September 15, 2020)

COVID-19 Testing Update

All Sayre Healthcare Center residents and all campus employees were COVID tested on Monday, 09/14.

So far, all but one resident result has come back. We currently have no new COVID-19 residents at the Healthcare Center. Results are still pending for one resident.

We have one staff member of the Sayre Healthcare Center that tested positive on 9/8 and has since tested negative. This staff member is asymptomatic, quarantining at home and cooperating with the Health Department. We still have results coming in from the testing on 9/14, but we did receive a new staff positive result at the Healthcare Center. This staff member is asymptomatic, quarantining at home and tested again today. Staff and residents at the SHC will be tested again on 9/21.

At this time, there are no new cases for residents or staff on the housing side of campus. We will continue to update these results as they come in.

(September 14, 2020)

National Assisted Living Week 2020

(September 13, 2020)

Scheduling a Chatter Box Visit

If you have had difficulty scheduling a Virtual or Chatter Box visit in the past or if the dates are full, please contact Adrianne at 859-271-9000 Monday – Friday or . We often have cancellations and Adrianne does a great job of filling those gaps to make sure that family connections are made.

Happy Grandparents Day!

We are so blessed to care for Grandmothers and Grandfathers that come from all over the Bluegrass. We’re used to hosting families onsite and having potlucks, picnics and cookouts. COVID visitor restrictions have changed that this year, but #LoveStillGetsIn. Follow our Facebook page for pictures from the day’s festivities…you’ll see them trickled out throughout the week!

COVID-19 Testing Update

All Friendship Towers residents were tested on Wednesday, 09/09. All Friendship Toweres residents and staff are negative. 

We are testing all employees on campus on Monday, 09/14. Currently, we have no new COVID-19 cases on campus. We have one staff member of the Sayre Healthcare Center that tested positive on 9/8 and has since tested negative. This staff member is asymptomatic, quarantining at home and cooperating with the Health Department.

(September 11, 2020)

Federal SNF/NF Testing Rule Issues Questions and Concerns

CMS posted the county COVID-19 positivity rate data that can be accessed through a link here under “COVID-19 Testing”.  This  CMS website is generally updated every Thursday.

There is concern that the federal rates given are not accurate and are probably over-inflated. The concern is all positives are reported but not all the negatives. Kentucky has a more accurate system for having more complete data.

LeadingAge Kentucky sent a letter of support to the CHFS recommending that CMS allow Kentucky to use Kentucky’s data to determine county positives and to rely on Kentucky’s fully financed PCR Testing regimen. You may find that letter here.

In the meantime, Sayre Christian Village will be following the recommendation to utilize the testing frequency based on our county positivity rate as determined through the federal data.

In addition, the recommendation is to continue to use the state supported PCR testing method as opposed to the POC rapid machines.

Family Connections are Vital

If you have had difficulty scheduling a Virtual or Chatter Box visit in the past, please contact Adrianne at 859-271-9000 or . We often have cancellations and Adrianne does a great job of filling those gaps to make sure that family connections are made.

Please continue to pray for our staff, our residents and family members. We are all 6 1/2 months into this COVID chaos and it’s easy for fatigue to set in.

Have a great weekend!

(September 10, 2020)

COVID-19 Testing Update

Sayre Healthcare Center

• 1 new positive employee
• 4 employees still pending
All other employees and residents have tested negative

The 1 employee who tested positive is not working, is asymptomatic and was retested today to confirm the test result. Because we had a new positive case, we are testing all employees and residents on Monday, 09/14.

Friendship Towers

• 0 new positive employees
• 3 agency staff are still pending; all other agency personnel that were tested, have tested negative

All residents were tested on Wednesday, 09/09 and we have 25 negative results and the remainder of the residents are still pending at this time.

Because we have to show no new positive cases for 14 days, we are testing all employees on Monday, 09/14.

Baunta & Forest View

• All employees have tested negative
• Because we had new positive cases on campus, we are testing all employees on Monday, 09/14.

(September 8, 2020)

COVID-19 Testing Update

Residents and Staff tested at Friendship Towers Assisted Living on Thursday, September 3rd due to the two positive employees. Both employees have since tested negative twice and have been cleared by the Health Department.
There are no new positive cases. All residents and staff have tested negative for COVID at Friendship Towers.
Staff and residents will be tested again on Wednesday, September 9th. Public health guidance is to test every 3-7 days until no new positive cases for 14 days. Communal dining, activities and indoor Chatter Box visits have been paused during this time. However, Virtual Visits and Window Chatter Box Visits may take place. Please contact Assisted Living Director Angela Goodlett for more information about Window Visits and Activity Director Marcia Martin for Virtual Visit Questions.
All staff campus-wide are being tested today for COVID-19 and we expect to have results within 72 hours. The positive staff member at the Healthcare Center from 8/31 has since tested negative 3 times and has been released from by the Health Department from quarantine.

Derby Day at Sayre Healthcare Center

(September 6, 2020) I hope everyone is having a great Labor Day Weekend.  I wanted to give you an update from our most recent round of COVID-19 testing last week.

Covid Testing Update

Sayre Healthcare Center 

  • 1 new positive employee
  • 3 employees still pending
  • All other employees have tested negative
  • The 1 employee who tested positive has had 3 subsequent negative tests and has been released from the health department.
  • Because we had a new positive case, we are testing all residents and employees on Tuesday, 09/08 from 5:30am to 7:00pm.

Friendship Towers 

  • 2 new positive employees
  • All other employees have tested negative
  • All residents were tested on Thursday, 09/04 and we have negative results on all but 1 resident who is still pending.
  • Both employees who tested positive have had 2 subsequent negative tests and we are waiting for releases from the health department for those individuals.
  • Because we had a new positive case, we are testing all employees on Tuesday, 09/08 from 5:30am to 7:00pm.

Baunta & Forest View Apartments

  • All employees have tested negative
  • Because we had new positive cases in 2 other buildings on campus, we are testing all employees on Tuesday, 09/08 from 5:30am to 7:00pm.

(September 2, 2020)

Sayre Christian Village Mass Testing Update

All employees of SCV were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, 8/31/2020.

Sayre Christian Healthcare

There is 1 new positive case of an employee to report at this time.  There are 13 employees tests still pending.  The website and COVID-19 Information Line will be updated as more results come in.  Because we have a new positive case, all residents and employees at Sayre Healthcare Center will be tested for COVID on Tuesday, 09/08/2020.   Window visits are still occurring!  You may schedule visits through the calendar on the website.  If you have any questions about window visits, please reach out to .  Inside Chatter Box visits, Communal dining, in-person activities, and the beauty shop are on hold at this time.

Friendship Towers

There are 2 new positive employee cases to report at this time.  All other employees tested negative.  Because we have new positive cases, all residents at Friendship Towers will be tested for COVID on Thursday, 09/03/2020.  All employees will be tested for COVID on Tuesday, 09/08/2020.

Chatter Box visits (including outside visits), communal dining, transportation, beauty shop and in person activities are all on hold at Friendship Towers for at least 2 weeks.

Baunta/Forest View

Baunta has 1 employee test pending and all others negative.  Forest View has no positive or pending results, and all others are negative.  Because we have had new positive cases on campus, all employees will be required to test again on Tuesday, 09/08/2020.

Please PRAY for each other, our employees and family members during this vulnerable time!

(September 1, 2020)

SCV COVID-19 Info Line (859) 899-0831

Under the guidance of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, all employees were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, August 31, 2020.  At this time, we have not received all the test results back, but we want to inform you that 2 employees of Friendship Towers and 1 employee of the Healthcare Center have tested positive for COVID-19.  We are still waiting on several employee tests to come back from the lab.

On Thursday, September 3, all residents at Friendship Towers will be tested for COVID-19.  On Tuesday, September 8, all residents of the Sayre Healthcare Center and all campus employees will be tested.  We will continue to test weekly until we go 14 days without a new positive case of COVID-19.  At this time, Chatter Box visits are suspended until further notice.

Please PRAY for each other, our employees and family members during this vulnerable time.  Please continue to check the SCV COVID-19 information line at (859) 899-0831 for daily updates.

(August 31, 2020)

In-Person Visits

It’s In-Person Chatter Box Eve! We couldn’t be more excited to welcome our families back into the building tomorrow.

In addition to in-person visits, we’ll also be starting communal dining and visits to the beauty shop. It’s going to be a great day for our residents! We praise God and commend our staff for preventing COVID on campus so that we may start these in-person visits.

If you have any questions about in-person visits, please reach out to .

Mandatory COVID Testing

I am happy to report that we have not reported any new positive cases on our campus for staff or residents since 08/03/2020.  Moving forward, our COVID-19 testing protocol will be as follows:

  • All staff are required to test every 2 weeks
  • Residents will NOT be tested unless they show symptoms consistent with COVID-19
  • Of course, this would be subject to change in the event we have a confirmed case of COVID-19 for a resident and/or staff

All campus staff are COVID testing today and we expect results within 72 hours.

(August 27, 2020)

The Sayre Healthcare Center In-Person Chatter Box sign ups are LIVE! We are only 5 days away from our families visiting inside the building again Tuesday, September 1st. Sign up and watch the video so that you know what to expect on the day of your visit. We can’t tell you how happy we are to have you in the building again SOON.

On Tuesday, we’re also VERY excited to announce that the Beauty Salon will be back ‘OPEN FOR BUSINESS’, as well as communal dining and more as we will have met the 28 day threshold for no new COVID cases.

(August 26, 2020) 

Aloha!

Residents at Friendship Towers are searching their closets for their brightest clothes for tomorrow’s highly anticipated Luau. The Life Enrichment Team has worked with dining and residents will be transported on a 3-Hour Tour to a tropical isle, complete with palm trees and coconut bowling! Their menu has our taste buds ready!

Starter

SAUSAGE AND PINEAPPLE BITES

Main Course
GRILLED HULI HULI CHICKEN
BROCCOLI WITH ROASTED RED PEPPER
HAWAIIAN FRIED RICE
HAWAIIAN ROLLS

Dessert
PINEAPPLE UPSIDE DOWN CAKE
TROPICAL VIRGIN DAIQUIRI

In-Person Chatter Box Visits

Folks, we are almost there! We are planning on starting in-person Chatter Box visits at the Healthcare Center on September 1st. That same day, communal dining, the beauty salon and more will also open up. The link to schedule will go live TOMORROW, August 27th.

To help you understand what the state guidelines look like for in-person Chatter Box visits, we’ve made a video to walk you through what to expect. The residents will be SO excited to see you!

Congratulations, Colleen!

(August 25, 2020)

The Healthcare Center resumed communal activities yesterday for residents! Residents were happy to meet in the Life Enrichment Center, following all guidelines, to have an “Ask Ann” session with Ann Reed, VP of Healthcare Services. Residents were able to ask Ann anything at all, town hall style, and hear the updates that are coming.

Some of those updates included the upcoming in-person Chatter Box visits that will be starting on Tuesday, September 1st, barring any new COVID cases. In addition to in-person Chatter Box visits that will take place in the lobby of the Healthcare Center, the beauty salon will be opening and communal dining will begin in the dining room.

Keep praying, we’re so excited to be moving forward. We will be testing Monday, August 31st. The residents will NOT be tested on Monday.

(August 21, 2020)

Praise the Lord!

We are so excited to announce that we have met the threshold for starting up communal activities again because we have met our threshold for no new COVID cases for 14 days at the Healthcare Center!

We will begin communal activities on Monday, August 24th and communal dining on September 1st. Residents will be social distancing, must be screened and have their hands washed or sanitized, and wear masks to and from the activity or dining room. We are thrilled to move forward with this plan!

We will also be allowing non-emergent physicians to come in such as podiatry, audiology, psych, and optometry now that we have met the threshold.

In-Person Chatter Box Visits can begin as soon as September 1st, as long as we continue to be COVID-free. Please be on the lookout for more information as that date draws nearer for how to schedule those visits. We’ll also be posting a video of what you can expect during your in-person visit at the Healthcare Center.

Super Food Tasting Event

You say tomato, I say fried green tomatoes! Residents at Friendship Towers had a chef tasting today with our monthly super food focus, tomatoes!

In addition to the tasting, we viewed sample menus for the Expansion, voted on potential table settings, and talked about the exciting things around the corner this fall.

Residents at the Healthcare Center got in on the action as well – they had Fried Green Tomatoes brought right to their door from the ‘Whistle Stop Cafe’ cart. The Life Enrichment Team and Dining Team worked hand-in-hand to pull off this fun event!

(August 19, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Mass Testing Update

On 8/17, we mass tested all SHC residents and campus staff. Currently, there are no new cases with 1 resident and 19 employees still pending. Praise the Lord. We are hoping for an all-clear so that communal dining and activities can begin very soon and so that we can mark the date on the calendar for in-person family visits at the Healthcare Center.

(August 18, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Mass Testing Update

On 8/17, we mass tested all SHC residents and campus staff. Currently, no new cases with 1 resident and 82 employees are still pending.

Results that have come in so far:

  • 126 negative residents
  • 144 negative Healthcare Center staff
  • 31 negative Housing staff

Celebrating 63 Years in Love

(August 17, 2020) On 08/10/20, we tested all staff and residents at SHC for COVID-19 – this was the 11th round of mass testing for SHC residents and staff.

We are happy to report that from this week’s round of testing, we have NO NEW positive cases to report.

In total, we have had 17 positive COVID cases at SHC and 1 positive case at Forest View. All cases are resolved and/or have recovered at this point in time.

We will test all residents at SHC and all staff campus-wide today, Monday, 08/17. In the event that we don’t have any new positive cases from Monday’s round of testing, we won’t be required to test again for 2 weeks unless we have someone test positive in the meantime.

Please pray that today’s testing yields great results for us – we appreciate your support!

(August 13, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Mass Testing Update

Praise the Lord, all test results that were pending have come back negative. We have NO new cases. We will test again on Monday, 8/17! If we all staff and residents test negative, since we will have met the 14 days no new cases streak, we will start communal dining and activities on the 24th (because we likely won’t have all test results back till mid-week). Please continue to pray for us as we are so excited to move forward!

Progress at the Friendship Towers Expansion

It’s going to start all happening very rapidly now, so we’ll be sharing updates more frequently here and on our Facebook page! We can’t wait for our residents to enjoy all these amazing new common spaces.

Our current Friendship Towers residents will really enjoy being able to stretch out and socially distance easily for their communal activities and dining! If you’ve visited the current Friendship Towers dining room, you know this sunshine-filled restaurant-style dining room is going to be a HIT! Check it out.

We do have one bedroom availability now and two bedroom availability SOON on the Heritage (current wings) of Friendship Towers. We also have some very exciting news coming soon, so stay tuned for that reveal.

It’s Time to Vote!

HAVE WE EARNED YOUR HERALD LEADER READERS’ CHOICE VOTE?

We are honored to be nominated in multiple categories, including:

  • Assisted Living
  • Physical Therapy
  • Retirement Community

VOTE in all 3 categories for Sayre Christian Village under Health & Fitness.

2020 has been…SOMETHING! If you think we’re doing a good job, it would mean the world if you’d vote for us!

(August 12, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Mass Testing Update

We are just waiting on results for 3 employees at this time. There are no new positive cases to report for residents or staff.  We currently have 1 positive employee, who previously tested positive and is under quarantine until she is released by the Health Department.

We will test residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center as well as all housing staff on Monday, 08/17.  If all SHC staff/residents test negative, we can set a date to resume dining and activities at the Healthcare Center since we will have met our 14 day, no new cases streak.

(August 11, 2020)

Sayre Healthcare Center Mass Testing Update

Residents and employees of SHC were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, 8/3/2020.

126 Residents Tested 

  • 0 Positive
  • 0 Pending
  • 126 Negative

202 Employees Tested 

  • 0 new positive
  • 56 Pending
  • 146 Negative

49 Smart TVs Granted to the Healthcare Center

Thank you, Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels and Blue Grass Community Foundation for grants to purchase 49 smart TVs and Rokus for the Healthcare Center to help us level up technology. Residents are excited and moved by the generous grants that help to decrease social isolation!

Smarts TVs will be able to not only access internet and cable, but also our in-house TV channel with everything from daily schedules, streaming exercises, activities, our own Bible studies and services, important COVID-19 updates and more.

Since spring, we have added over 14 iPads to our our mobile technology to assist with Virtual Visits and are currently expanding our WiFi coverage throughout the Healthcare Center.

(August 10, 2020)

Residents and staff at the Healthcare Center were tested today. As of 11:50 PM, have had 140 results come back and thus far, all of those tests have come back negative.  We will continue to update on Tuesday.

(August 7, 2020)

All residents and employees at SHC were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, 08/03/2020.  All residents tested negative and we did have 1 new positive case for an employee – all other employees have tested negative.  We currently have 3 employees who are positive for COVID-19.  All 3 employees are not working at this time and we are working with local and state public health officials.

Because we had a new positive case at SHC, all residents and staff will be tested again on Monday, 08/10/2020 from 5:30am to 7:00pm.

“You’re doing God’s Work”

We’re all doing the best we can during this crisis and looking for the good in each day. Residents, Families, Supporters, Volunteers, Staff – we’re in it together.

You may now schedule both Chatter Box Visits & Virtual Visits at all our buildings on the self-scheduling calendar – now including weekend visits!

(August 6, 2020)

Chatter Box Visit Scheduler Is LIVE for the Healthcare Center

Thank you for your patience! You may now schedule Virtual Visits or Chatter Box Visits at the Healthcare Center on the self-scheduling calendar.

Visits will once again be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and take place at the Greenfield drive entrance for units 300 & 400 and the Palliative breezeway for units 100 & 200.

Ice Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream!

What is GUARANTEED to put a smile on your face? Hearing the ice cream truck song getting louder as it gets closer & closer!

This sweet resident was giggling so hard, her eyes squeezed shut while she laughed! It was so much fun to share that experience with her & reminisce!

(August 5, 2020)

Mass Testing at Sayre Christian Village

We  conducted Mass Testing today for all staff and residents of Sayre Healthcare Center and for all Housing staff on 8/3/2020.

Sayre Healthcare Center

  • 193 employees negative
  • 6 employees pending
  • 3 employee positive (1 new, 2 previous)
  • 126 residents negative
  • 1 residents pending (retest/invalid)
    329 TOTAL

Housing Employees

  • 46 employees negative
  • 1 employees pending
  • 1 employee out of town
    48 TOTAL

All team members that are positive (two previous, one new) are cooperating with the local health department and are doing well. However, because we have a new positive employee at the Healthcare Center, we will retest again on Monday, August 10th. Of course, our primary goal is to keep residents and staff safe and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the facility. Maintenance testing will take place for the Housing staff every two weeks, so long as there is not a positive case. Their next testing date is August 17th.

“Brothers and sisters, pray for us.”  1 Thessalonians 5:25

  • Our team continues to do regular in-servicing on educate on hand-washing and latest CDC guidelines.
  • We encourage staff not to attend large gatherings and not to go to hot spot areas.
  • We continue to wear N95 Masks when there is a positive case.
  • We have ensured that the facility has plenty of access to PPE for staff.
  • We are keeping staff unit consistency and continue to screen staff daily.
  • We continue to encourage residents to wear masks.

Chatter Box Visits at the Healthcare Center will be Re-Opening

We are working with our team to create a new schedule for Chatter Box Visits at the Healthcare Center. Thank you for your patience as we adjust the schedules. Visits will once again be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance and take place at the Greenfield drive entrance for units 300 & 400 and the Palliative breezeway for units 100 & 200. Please watch our website and Facebook page for links to the new schedule availability. We expect that scheduling feature to go live again for Chatter Box Visits on Thursday, August 6th.

(August 4, 2020)


(August 3, 2020)

Mass Testing at Sayre Christian Village

We are conducting Mass Testing at the Healthcare Center today for all staff and residents. Today, we are also testing all Housing employees as well, due to new state guidance.

We expect results to start coming in from Gravity Diagnostics Lab within 72 hours. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Have You Signed Up For The Virtual Race?

Team SCV, we need you! Show your solidarity for residents, staff and families! We are #racingforhope! Learn more about the race and help us spread the word by sharing the Facebook post below!

(July 31, 2020)

Surveillance COVID-19 Testing for Friendship Towers Assisted Living

On July 9, 2020, the Kentucky Department for Public Health issued an order indicating that a licensed clinician’s order is not required for a lab to perform (or bill for) a COVID-19 FDA-approved diagnostic test. The testing lab will communicate test results to our community within 48-hours and will notify the Kentucky Department for Public Health of any positive test results.
Now the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services will provide financial support of COVID-19 surveillance testing, so there will be no cost to our community, residents, or staff.

Until further notice, here is how the testing will work:

  1. All staff and outside agency personnel who frequently visit our community will be tested on a bi-weekly basis.
  2. Any staff member or outside agency personnel who tests positive for COVID-19 will quarantine for 14 days and the Kentucky Department for Public Health will be notified by the testing laboratory.
  3. Residents and staff members who were exposed to a positive staff or agency personnel member will be tested.
  4. If the exposed resident or staff member tests positive, he/she will be required to quarantine for 14 days and the Kentucky Department for Public Health will be notified by the testing laboratory.
  5. Any resident or staff member who displays COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, rigors, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, change in sense of smell or taste or gastrointestinal symptoms) will be tested. If the test result is positive, the same steps outlined above will be followed.

What if there is a positive resident result in Friendship Towers Assisted Living?

If a resident receive a positive test result, someone from the Kentucky Department of Public Health may contact them to follow up. This person will likely ask about symptoms. They may also ask the resident who they have been in recent, in-person contact with over the past several days.

Because COVID-19 can be carried without there being any noticeable symptoms present, a member of the Public Health Department may reach out to those individuals to advise them that they may have been exposed to COVID-19 and recommend that they be tested. But don’t worry, the Health Department will be kept strictly confidential.

Our leaders and staff are committed to staying healthy so that we may continue to provide a safe and healthy place for our residents to enjoy life. If you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19 testing at Friendship Towers, please contact Angela Goodlett at .

Chatter Box In-Person Visits Started TODAY on the Housing Side of Campus

Healthcare Center COVID Testing Update

On Friday, 07/24/20, we received notification that an employee at the Healthcare Center had tested positive for COVID-19. She had worked at Sayre during her infectious period and had signs/symptoms consistent with COVID. Obviously, this was not the news we wanted as we spent a large part of the week finalizing plans for in-person visits (you have to have no positive cases for 28 days for in-person visits, and our date WOULD have been 08/04).  Due to those results, we conducted another round of mass testing on Monday, 07/27. A total of 334 residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID and below are the results:

  • 127 residents tested negative
  • 1 resident tested positive
  • 202 employees tested negative
  • 3 employees are still pending
  • 1 employee tested positive

The resident who tested positive was on Unit 2 but was immediately relocated to our designated COVID cohort unit and remains asymptomatic. Out of an abundance of caution, the resident was tested again on Tuesday, 07/28 and tested negative. The resident was tested again on Thursday, 07/30 and we are waiting on those results. While I’m thrilled the resident tested negative, I can’t begin to explain the emotional toll this news takes on our staff, residents and family members.

If you have not watched the ZOOM video with Karen Venis and the Inspector General, Adam Mather, about inconsistent testing results, we encourage you to.

The employee who tested positive was the same employee who previously tested positive on Friday, 07/24 and we expected her results to be positive.

We also received notification that a resident at Forest View has tested positive for COVID. The resident is asymptomatic and is working with the health department for necessary contact tracing.

(July 30, 2020) On Friday, 07/24/20, we received notification that an employee at the Healthcare Center had tested positive for COVID-19. Due to those results, we conducted another round of mass testing on Monday, 07/27. A total of 334 residents and staff were tested for COVID.

127 residents tested negative
1 resident tested positive

200 employees tested negative
5 employees are still pending
1 employee tested positive

The resident who tested positive was relocated to our designated COVID cohort unit and is asymptomatic. Out of an abundance of caution, the resident was tested again on Tuesday, 07/28. We received those results and the resident has tested negative. 

The employee who tested positive was the same employee who previously tested positive on Friday, 07/24 and we expected her results to still be positive. We will conduct another round of testing on Monday, 08/03.

We also received notification yesterday that a resident at Forest View has tested positive for COVID. The resident is asymptomatic and is working with the health department for necessary contact tracing.

Pen Pal Update

(July 29, 2020) 

SCV COVID-19  Update

On 07/27/20, all 128 residents and  206 staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19. 127 residents tested negative and unfortunately, we did have 1 resident test positive for COVID-19. The resident is asymptomatic and has been relocated to our COVID cohort unit and is being cared for by a designated team of individuals.

Out an abundance of caution, the resident has been retested for COVID and we are awaiting the results. The resident, family member along with the resident’s roommate and responsible parties have been notified.

198 employees have tested negative, 7 are still pending and 1 employee who previously tested positive has tested positive again. That individual continues to be off work and will be retested again soon.

Because we have had a new positive case, residents and staff (both healthcare and housing employees) will be tested again for COVID-19 on Monday, 08/03/20 from 5:30am to 7:00pm.

In addition, we have a confirmed positive case at Forest View Apartments. That individual is self-isolating and cooperating with the health department. We are not at the liberty to release any more information, out of regard to that individual’s privacy.

We continue to ask for your prayers as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19. This battle takes the coordination of so many and we are proud of the way our team pivots quickly.

Looking for the Good

Our residents teach us every day about resiliency and how to LOOK for the good to find joy in even the smallest or regular things.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24 

(July 28, 2020) 

Friendship Towers Construction Update

We are excited to share some behind the scenes pictures of the Friendship Towers expansion site! Residents are now getting to see the long-awaited restaurant-style dining room take shape! The light flooding is going to be such a pleasant reward after COVID restrictions. We are thrilled that the extremely generous size of the multipurpose center (over 6,000 square feet, including the pavilion) will allow for a wide-range of activities and socially-distanced and safe dining.

We Are in this Together 

“We are in an escalation of cases, where our positivity rate also continues to increase. This virus is now escalating and spreading so much statewide that statewide action is necessary. That’s the opinion of the Trump administration, and that’s the position of this state government. It’s every expert on the federal level and at our state level,” said Gov. Beshear in a news conference on Monday.

Please continue to wear your masks in public spaces, practice proper social-distancing and wash your hands. Continue to keep us in your prayers as we wait for test results.

(July 27, 2020) 

Healthcare Center staff and residents are completing mass testing today and we expect to start receiving results from Gravity Diagnostics Lab in around 72 hours.

Staff at the Healthcare Center have completed additional continuing education on COVID-19 symptoms and precautions to stop the spread of COVID-19 and we continue to follow CDC guidelines for cleaning and sanitizing. Our staff will wear PPE, such as N95 masks and continue to encourage residents to wear masks when out of their room.

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

(July 24, 2020) 

We have just received notification that an employee at Sayre Healthcare Center has tested positive for COVID-19.

This employee tested negative for COVID-19 on 07/20/20, but has been having symptoms consistent with COVID. Out of an abundance of caution, the staff member was tested again yesterday. We are currently doing internal contact tracing and are working with the employee and the health department.  The employee won’t be released to return to work until we receive a negative COVID-19 test.

As such, we will be required to conduct mass testing for all residents and employees of the Healthcare Center on Monday, 07/27/2020. 

Virtual VisitsGroup Activities, Dining & Chatter Box Visits at the Healthcare Center

Unfortunately, we will need to discontinue group activities and Chatter Box visits at the Healthcare Center until further notice, and for that, I’m truly sorry. We will not go forward with communal dining at this time at the Healthcare Center.

If you have a Chatter Box visit scheduled at the Healthcare Center already for next week or beyond, you will be getting a cancellation email. Our team has ramped up the Virtual Visit self – schedule calendar to add more availability.  

We ask for your prayers for good results on Monday.

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1

Thank you, Karen Venis, CEO

(July 23, 2020) 

SCV COVID-19 07/20/20 Testing Update

A total of 332 residents and staff were tested for COVID-19 on 07/20/20.  No new positive cases to report at this time.  All 126 residents have tested negative.  203 employees have tested negative.  2 employees are still pending at this time.  1 employee who previously tested positive remains positive and will be retested in the next couple of days.  Our next round of testing for residents and staff will take place on Monday, 08/03/2020.

ZOOM Recording with Special Guest Inspector General on COVID Testing

While there is certainly a science to the testing process, but there are a lot of unanswered questions for residents, family members, staff and public health officials about lab results.

This is especially so after the recent ‘false positive’ news stories coming out of the University of Kentucky and out of Connecticut.

Of course, we have had some questions as well here at our own facility considering the very similar and unexpected positive, then negative test results for five asymptomatic residents in a previous round of testing. Those previously presumed positive asymptomatic residents that we had earlier in June have long since been cleared of quarantine by the state health department.

We want to thank our special guest, Adam Mather, Kentucky’s Inspector General for providing answers to your questions about the COVID-19 testing process. This one-hour session was an opportunity for family members, residents and employees to get a behind the scenes look at the COVID-19 testing process and how it stood earlier in June 2020. 

New Resources to Protect Nursing Home Residents Against COVID-19

LeadingAge Kentucky has recently reported that the President announced several new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) initiatives designed to protect nursing home residents from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

New Funding: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will devote $5 billion of the Provider Relief Fund authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to Medicare-certified long term care facilities and state veterans’ homes (“nursing homes”), to build nursing home skills and enhance nursing homes’ response to COVID-19, including enhanced infection control.

This funding could be used to address critical needs in nursing homes including hiring additional staff, implementing infection control “mentorship” programs with subject matter experts, increasing testing, and providing additional services, such as technology so residents can connect with their families if they are not able to visit.

We do not know how this will affect us yet or how quickly we’ll know more about this new initiative, but we’ll update as we hear more.

It was also announced that:
• The administration is sharing with governors lists of high risk nursing homes, so they can take action.
• The CDC and PHS are providing enhanced technical assistance and support to the highest risk nursing homes. CMS an CDC are putting an infection control training program in place, targeted at the highest risk nursing homes which we have pinpointed.
• If a nursing home has three or more COVID cases “we alert the state and check on it very quickly.”
Additionally, CMS is slated to release a rule requiring that nursing homes in states with a 5 percent positivity rate or greater test all nursing home staff every week. On a call with reporters, CMS Administrator Seema Verma declined to comment on the timeline for the rule’s release.

(July 22, 2020) 

A total of 332 residents and staff were tested for COVID-19 on 07/20/20.

  • 201 employees negative
  • 5 employees pending
  • 126 residents negative
  • 0 residents pending

(July 21, 2020) 

SCV COVID-19 07/20/20 Testing Update

A total of 332 residents and staff were tested for COVID-19 on 07/20/20.

  • All 126 residents have tested negative.
  • 146 employees have tested negative.
  • 60 employees are still pending at this time.

(July 20, 2020) 

Mass Testing at the Healthcare Center

We are conducting Mass Testing at the Healthcare Center today for all staff and residents. We expect results to start coming in from Gravity Diagnostics Lab within 72 hours. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Small Group Communal Activities at the Healthcare Center

The Activities Department has exciting news at the Healthcare Center! Since we have not had a positive resident case on campus in over 14 days, we will be able to start small group activities on Tuesday, 7/21/20! We will be following CDC guidelines and limiting our groups to no more than 10 residents, residents will be wearing masks and stay at least 6 feet apart. Residents will be screened before each activity and their hands will be sanitized as well, as well as any surfaces they may come in contact with.

To help alleviate the admin time devoted to coordination of Virtual Visits, we have created a self-schedule sign-up calendar with available slots. This will allow our Activities Department to spend more time with the residents in communal activities.

We ask that families please limit their calls to 20 mins in length and schedule no more than 1 a week so every family has an opportunity to have an activities-led Virtual Visit that would like one. Of course, Virtual Visits (Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo, Phone Calls, etc) maybe done at any time, but the Activities Department will not be able to lead them for residents as frequently as before with the exciting return to group activities, the focus on sanitizing group activity environment and supplies, in addition to screening all residents.

Reservations must be scheduled using the Chatter Box & Virtual Visit Calendar 24 hours in advance to allow our teams time to shift gears

We are so excited about the next steps for the Sayre Christian Village Healthcare Center. Dining will be opening for small group communal dining on July 29th and in-person visits are set to begin on August 3rd, barring any new positive cases.

Racing for Hope Virtual 1K, 3K, 5K, and 10K

Racing for Hope Join us for a Virtual race to raise funds for our battle against COVID-19. The Coronavirus crisis has taxed our resources and Sayre Christian Village residents & caregivers need your help!

IMPORTANT RACE DATES
Registration July 20th – August 9th
Race ANYTIME from August 28th – September 7th

RACE TYPES
We are offering four different race lengths. There will be a 1 mile fun run for kids, a 5K, and a 10K available so that any and all willing participants of all experience levels can participate!

If you have been thinking of a way to help, but are just at a loss for where to start…your support will make a big impact here at Sayre Christian Village.

Your donations will help us offset the daily costs of doing business during this time (costs associated with testing, PPE, extra cleaning supplies, etc) AND help us procure items that help to engage residents during a time with no visitors.

RACE RULES
Pick your race type (1 mile fun run, 3K, 5K, or 10K), run (or walk) race wherever and however you choose to do so…on the treadmill, on a road, at your local park, at the track, or around your house….. whatever works for you! Don’t forget to record your time. We will have directions for uploading your time to be given once you register. Packet Pick-Up Info will be given upon registration!

SWAG
The top finishers in each category, both male & female, will receive a medal! We will be sending swag to the top 3 finishers in each category as well! Every participant will receive a soft, vintage feel t-shirt if signed up before August 10th.

#RacingforHope2020
Be sure to commemorate your race by snapping a photo and sharing to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with hashtag #RacingforHope2020. We are so excited and can’t wait to “see you” at the race!! PS…it’s ok to just get the t-shirt & not run…we won’t tell!

(July 19, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

SCV COVID-19 07/13/20 Healthcare Center Testing Update

A total of 334 residents and staff  at the Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on 07/13/20. 127 residents tested negative. 205 employees tested negative. 2 employees tested positive.

Employee #1 who tested positive is the same individual who tested positive 07/07/2020 and is still off work and is asymptomatic.

Employee #2 who tested positive on 7/13/2020, has not worked in the building since 05/14/20, so the state won’t require us to count that individual in the number of positive cases we report for the facility because of the lack of exposure.

All residents and staff will be tested again on Monday, 07/20 from 5:30am to 7:00pm, as required by the health department.

Thank you, Karen Venis, CEO

(July 17, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

We did another round of mass testing on 07/13/2020 and we are still waiting on one resident test due to the first sample being invalid. All other residents are negative. We expect the outstanding resident test to be negative and we expect that result back from Gravity Diagnostics Lab at any time. Please see the update from July 16th for a more detailed explanation of results.

We will do another round of mass testing at the Healthcare Center on Monday, July 20th.

Stay tuned for a video of the ZOOM call we had with families, employees, our CEO and Adam Mather, Kentucky’s Inspector General. You’ll learn the ins and outs of testing at Sayre Christian Village.

Activities & Dining at the Healthcare Center

We are so thrilled that activities will be resuming next Tuesday, July 21st! The team is anxious to get our residents into safe, small, socially-distant groups for some of their favorite exercises, Bible studies, some art and BINGO!

Communal dining is set to return on July 28th with a newly re-imagined dining menu and philosophy. We’ll be sharing more SOON, but we’ve been using this time to rededicate the dining services to it’s full potential, with a focus on scratch cooking and fresh fruits and vegetables. Our dining services team is dedicated to being ‘the best part of someone’s day!’

Remember, if testing goes well on July 20th and 27th, we are on track to have in-person visitation at the Healthcare Center on August 3rd! 

(July 16, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

Combating Social Withdrawal Due to COVID-19

We are combating social withdrawal in long term care due to COVID-19 visitor restrictions with many different techniques.

One of the most common concerns we get is, “I’m worried Mom will forget me.”

Recreational Therapist & Activity Director, Sarah Davis shows us how sensory therapy can be used to spark memories. These techniques are really resident-led and can be calming for a resident that is feeling restless or stimulate and focus a less verbal resident.

Loretta talked for over 30 minutes about happy trips with children, how her kids will want to ‘claim’ the different jellyfish, how her husband is just a wonder at making things, how he reads the children books at nighttime and how the children are so funny asking about all different kinds of things ALL THE TIME.

She was very focused on making sure that she could figure out how to get an aquarium for her children; she’s certain they’ll enjoy it, even if they do fight over it and cause a ruckus. Once a mom, always a mom.

Help us raise funds for more sensory therapy toolkit carts for our residents in long term care with our online auction. HURRY! Auction ends Friday, July 17th at 8 pm!

(July 15, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

COVID-19 Testing for Residents and Staff

As you know, all Healthcare Center residents and employees were tested for COVID-19 on Monday, 07/13/2020 and below are the results as we know them now:

• 204 employees tested negative
• 1 employee still pending
• 2 employees tested positive
• 126 residents tested negative
• 1 resident still pending
• 334 individuals in total were tested

Below is some additional information on the 2 employees who tested positive:

Employee #1
This employee initially tested positive for COVID-19 on 07/07/2020 and did test positive again on 07/13/2020. As such, this is not a NEW positive case. Through our contact tracing, we have been able to determine that the exposure was most likely not acquired in the facility. The employee remains asymptomatic and will remain off work until we have 2 negative COVID-19 tests and a release to work from the health department.

Employee #2
This employee initially tested positive for COVID-19 on 07/13/2020 BUT is PRN and has not worked in the facility or been in the building other than to test since 05/14/2020. This employee did test negative on 07/07/2020 so we do know that the exposure was recent. The employee is asymptomatic and of course, will not be permitted to work until they have 2 negative COVID-19 tests and a release to work from the health department.

We are working with our state and local public health officials and because this employees has not worked/been in the facility for so long, they are not requiring us to “count” this positive test in the number of cases that we report to the state for Sayre Christian Village.

Next Round of Mass Testing

Our next round of mandatory testing will take place on Monday, 07/20/20 from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm.

Error in Reporting

There was an error in reporting on the public list for communal living facilities and Friendship Towers was listed as having 9 positive COVID-19 cases. They actually have zero positive cases. We have not had any positive residents or employees at Baunta Apartments, Forest View Apartments or Friendship Towers.

I’ll leave you with one thing – yesterday, the Governor reported 576 new cases of COVID-19 cases, but of those only 24 new cases came out of long term care! The spike in cases are for the most part, community acquired and are in the 20-40 year old demographic. We are proud of the long term care community in this state. It IS working. Thank you so much for your diligence and for doing your part!

God’s best, Karen Venis

(July 14, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

COVID-19 Testing for Residents and Staff

The results of the mass testing that we completed at the Healthcare Center on Monday, July 13th are starting to roll in. A total of 334 were tested and here is the current breakdown:

  • 122 residents negative
  • 5 residents pending
  • 138 employees negative
  • 69 employees pending

We are praying for peace of mind for our #TeamSCV (families, residents, staff and supporters) as we wait on results.

Sweetest Pen Pals Around

(July 13, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

COVID-19 Testing for Residents and Staff

Healthcare Center staff and residents are completing mass testing today and we expect to start receiving results from Gravity Diagnostics Lab in around 72 hours.

The last round of testing at Sayre Healthcare Center took place on Tuesday, 07/07/20 and here is an update of those results:

  • 124/124 residents tested negative
  • 205 employees tested negative
  • 1 employee tested positive
  • 4 employees are pending due to being out of town/testing at other labs

The employee who tested positive has not been in the building since the positive test result and is asymptomatic.

Ask Ann Ann - Sayre Christian Village

As a commitment to transparency, our VP of Healthcare Services, Ann Reed, will begin a new series at the Healthcare Center called “Ask Ann.”

She is looking forward to fielding questions from residents and informing them of the new things that are happening at the Healthcare Center.

Some of the first topics are likely to include the exciting new dining options at the Healthcare Center, introductions of new key team members, updates on the newly completed refresh of the Life Enrichment Center for their activities and spiritual services, the beauty shop re-opening questions and more.

In-Person Visits at Friendship Towers

Preparations are underway for a safe roll-out of in-person visitation at Friendship Towers on July 31st. Visits will be able to be scheduled MWF, 10am-4pm and T/Th 1-6pm. Visits will take place in a new ‘chatter box’ (Plexiglas partitions) right inside the Friendship Towers vestibule, in the lobby, near the location of the grand piano. This is an area where social distancing can be observed, but also allows for privacy.

Some of the precautions include:  

  • Health screenings and temperatures will be taken before visits
  • Masks must be worn the entire visit
  • Hands must be wash (sanitized) before the visit
  • A Plexiglas barrier will remain around the residents and visitors at all times and social distancing guidance applies
  • Two visitors per resident please
  • Chatter box visiting area will be disinfected between each visitor

Of course, everything is subject to change from the State or from DAIL. We encourage all of #TeamSCV (residents, families, supporters, volunteers and staff) to continue to do their part by washing hands, social distancing and wearing a mask in public.

(July 10, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case on our campus.

We have been working incredibly hard at Sayre Christian Village for the past 4 months to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.  The countless hours we are working, the rounds of mass testing and the restrictions are exhausting but they are absolutely necessary.  I think about all of the things we accomplished during the past 4 months and praise the Lord that we continue to blessed in so many ways!  Because of Team SCV efforts, we have been praised by residents, family members, other industry leaders, government/health officials, the media, etc for our response to COVID-19!

Update for KY Long-Term Care Facility/Assisted Living Cases

As of 4 p.m. July 7, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 2,072 residents ever testing positive for COVID-19, 609 residents currently testing positive, 1033 staff ever testing positive for COVID-19, 346 staff currently testing positive and 390 residents have died due to COVID-19, including three LTC staff persons. At least 197 facilities have had positive COVID-19 results.

Update for Sayre Christian Village

Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers – as of July 10, 2020, we have no residents or staff ever testing positive for COVID-19

Sayre Healthcare Center – as of July 10, 2020, we have 1 employee currently testing positive and no residents currently testing positive.  In total, we have had 5 residents and 6 employees ever test positive but only 1 employee currently testing positive.

COVID-19 Testing for Residents and Staff

Our most recent round of testing at Sayre Healthcare Center took place on Tuesday, 07/07/20 and here is an update of those results:

  • 124/124 residents tested negative
  • 204 employees tested negative
  • 1 employee tested positive
  • 5 employees are pending due to being out of town/testing at other labs

The employee who tested positive is not working and is asymptomatic and out an abundance of caution was tested again yesterday.

We are working with our local and state health department to do the contact tracing.  Employees and residents who were in contact with the positive employee have been notified to monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.  The health department has been very impressed with the measures we are taking to minimize the spread but because we do have a positive case, they will require us to complete mass testing every 3-7 days until we are all negative for 14 days.

As such, our next round of testing for employees who work at SHC will be on Monday, July 13, 2020 from 5:30am to 7:00pm.

Action Plans are in Place

We have done a remarkable job keeping COVID-19 out of our facilities and we will continue to follow OSHA, CDC, CMS and other public health guidelines to provide an environment that is safe for residents and staff. We have procured an adequate supply of PPE for our employees and are encouraging our residents to wear masks as well.  Stepped up cleaning and sanitizing, social distancing reminders are part of our continuing education in morning meetings. Please make sure that you are doing your part and that you are wearing your mask correctly – it doesn’t protect you if it is not covering your mouth AND your nose.  Please continue to do your part!

Reopening Guidance on the Housing Side

The Governor announced on June 25th that senior living communities such as ours can begin communal dining, small group activities and limited visitations.  There are certain requirements you have to meet prior to doing so.  Friendship, Baunta and Forest View are working on re-opening plans now as their plan has been approved by the state.

Communal Activities will resume on Wednesday, July 15th, with approved restrictions, July 20th for communal dining and in-person visits are scheduled to start taking place on July 31st. We will have more on in-person visitation soon.

Unfortunately, our plans for reopening at Sayre Healthcare Center must be delayed because the guidance requires the facility to have no positive cases for a certain period of time before bringing back activities, dining and in-person visits.

Chatter Box Visits at the Healthcare Center

Chatter Box ScheduleA ‘chatter box’ is what we are now calling a visit that takes place with a safe barrier between; either a plexi-glass barrier or an actual glass window in a designated spot.

Our goal for chatter box visits is to provide a safe and controlled environment for residents and families to connect.

The love expressed in less than 30 minutes ‘fuels’ everyone up till the next face-to-face meeting!

We kindly ask that you please not do unscheduled ‘walk-up window’ visits to actual resident rooms due to HIPAA & privacy restrictions. A resident might have a room mate or might be receiving care themselves.

Please schedule online at least 24 hours in advance.

Healthcare Center Chatter Box Visits 

Visits must be scheduled 24 hours in advance, please:

  • UNITS 100 & 200 – Chaplain Tyler will be hosting Units 100 and 200 in the Life Enrichment Center. Resident families for these two units will now park in the visitor parking or along the street and go to the LEC exterior doors at your scheduled times for a visit. The LEC exterior doors are to the left of the main Healthcare Center and Palliative Entrances, at the end of a little sidewalk.
  • UNITS 300 & 400 – Recreational Therapist & Activity Director Sarah Davis and Social Services Director Vicki Phillips will be hosting Chatter Box Visits at the Greenefield Dr. entrance windows (where the visits have traditionally taken place).

We are so excited for you to visit face-to-face with your loved ones again!

Nominations Open for the Herald Leader Readers’ Choice Awards

Herald Leader Readers' Choice We smashed it last year by winning:

  • FAVORITE ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY – Sayre Christian Village/Friendship Towers
  • FAVORITE PHYSICAL THERAPY – Sayre Christian Village
  • FAVORITE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY – Sayre Christian Village

How to nominate:

We have to make it past the nominations FIRST, so we’re asking that you nominate Sayre Christian Village EACH DAY till Sunday, July 19th.

  • Follow this link 
  • Click Health & Fitness Category
  • Write in Sayre Christian Village in all 3 categories:
    • Assisted Living
    • Physical Therapy
    • Retirement Community

HAWP $1,000 Winner Announced!

As promised, all employees who received the Heroes at Work Pay bonus for every pay period that it was offered were entered into a drawing today for the $1,000.  We had 95 employees receive the bonus for every single pay period it was offered – which is INCREDIBLE!  We did the drawing on Facebook Live on the SCV Employee page.  Congrats to Connie Clouse at Sayre Healthcare Center for winning the $1,000!

Don’t give up now!

The hard work that we have done over the last 4 months IS paying off!  Please, please keep doing your part – I have never been more proud to serve at Sayre Christian Village. We were chosen to care for the residents during these unprecedented times.

Karen Venis, CEO

(July 9, 2020) We currently have one positive COVID-19 staff case at on our campus. (UPDATED WITH NEW NUMBERS AT 6:52 PM). 

All residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on 07/07/20.  All 124 SHC residents have tested negative.

170 employees have tested negative, 35 are pending at Gravity Diagnostics Lab and 5 are pending tests results from other labs.

As of now, we do have 1 employee who tested positive for COVID-19 on 07/07 and we are working with the health dept to do both internal/external contact tracing for that individual.

The employee is not at work, not symptomatic and out of an abundance of caution, was tested again today.

Unfortunately, because we do have a positive case, the health dept will require us to test again on Monday, 07/13/20 from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm.

Because we have a positive test, our plans for small group activities, communal dining and in-person visitations will be delayed.

We will continue to update as test results roll in. Thank you so much for your patience – we know it’s so difficult to wait on results.

Thank you, Karen Venis, CEO

(July 8, 2020) We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus.

COVID testing at the Sayre Healthcare Center took place yesterday and went very smoothly. The staff and residents did a great job and we expect results to start trickling in today and throughout tomorrow. We are using Gravity Diagnostics to process our results. As soon as those start coming in, we’ll be reaching out to families and staff and updating the COVID information line.

(July 6, 2020) We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Results from June 29, 2020 COVID-19 Mass Testing

In total, we tested 321 individuals (120 residents and 201 staff) at the Healthcare Center for COVID-19. All residents & staff tested negative.

Next Mass Testing Day is Tomorrow

The Fayette County Health Department and Kentucky Dept of Public Health is requiring the Healthcare Center to test again on TUESDAY, JULY 7th from 5:30am to 7:00pm.  We will use Gravity Diagnostics again to process our results for this round of testing.

We Will Never Forget

We are honored to care for the Greatest Generation and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from our elders that have gone through many hardships in their lifetimes.

Folks in other industries go about their day and most likely do not have the privilege of being surrounded by so many reminders that community sacrifice has been done on many, many levels before during times of great national stress.

Our residents tell us stories of victory gardens, food, gas and tire rations, scrap metal drives, and many, many, MANY other willing sacrifices for the common good…for the benefit of their neighbor both here and abroad…to help those fighting the battle have a fighting chance.

I’m proud of my team and their dedication to testing, to wearing masks, to socially distancing and making responsible choices to give scientists a fighting chance to figure this virus out.

I urge all of Team SCV, all families, residents, staff, volunteers and supporters to do the same as we look to safely find ways to safely ease some restrictions on campus. We must all do our part and we will get through this together.

No ‘Walk-Up’ Window Visits

We appreciate families coordinating with activities and social services to coordinate Virtual Visits instead of walking up to residents’ windows on the exterior of the building due to privacy and HIPAA restrictions.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(July 2, 2020) We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Results from June 29, 2020 COVID-19 Mass Testing

In total, we tested 321 individuals (120 residents and 201 staff) for COVID-19.  All residents tested negative and 200 employees also tested negative.  We are waiting on results for 1 employee.  The 1 employee was out of the state when we tested and tested at another lab – we are just waiting on those results.

COVID-19 next Testing Date

The Fayette County Health Department and Kentucky Dept of Public Health is requiring us to test again on Tuesday, July 7,  2020– that will give us 14 days since our most recent positive results on June 23, 2020.

We will continue to update the website and hotline as needed.  We hope you have a great 4th of July weekend!

God’s Blessings,
Karen Venis, CEO

(July 1, 2020) We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

A total of 321 individuals were tested on June 29th for COVID-19 at Sayre Christian Village Healthcare, including 120 residents and 201 employees.

Here is an update of results so far:

ALL 120 Residents tested negative!

196 employees have tested negative, 5 employees tests are still pending:

  • 1 tested at out of state lab and results will take longer to return.
  • 3 had bad samples/were re-tested yesterday (June 29th).
  • 1 vial wasn’t labeled but we have confirmed identity and it is being processed now.

We will continue to update the website and hotline as the results are confirmed.

Thank you for your continued prayers for strength and for your encouragement, we appreciate it so much more than you know.

Thank you,
Karen Venis, CEO

(June 30, 2020) We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

A total of 321 individuals were tested on June 29th for COVID-19 at Sayre Christian Village Healthcare, including 120 residents and 201 employees.

Here is an update of results so far:

119 residents negative, 1 resident pending

152 employees negative, 49 employees pending

We will continue to update the website and hotline as the results are confirmed.

Thank you for your continued prayers for strength and for your encouragement, we appreciate it so much more than you know.

Thank you,
Karen Venis, CEO

(June 28, 2020) We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Q&A with Karen Venis, CEO & Kentucky’s Inspector General is TOMORROW

Don’t forget! The live zoom call with Karen and Adam Mather from the Office of the Inspector General is tomorrow at 3 PM. 

There are many unanswered questions for residents, family members, staff and public health officials about lab results from the recent rounds of mass testing at the Healthcare Center. The Inspector General has agreed to be our special guest and field questions sent in by staff, residents and family members on the COVID-19 testing process.

As an update, all five employees who tested positive for COVID-19 on 6/23 have tested negative on 6/24 and 6/25. There are three tests pending from the mass testing on 6/23, none of which are suspected.

Please register for the Q&A below and submit your testing questions for us to answer live.

Registration for LIVE Q&A

“All You Need to Know about COVID-19 Testing at Sayre Christian Village” ZOOM REGISTRATION 

Submit COVID-19 testing questions to  

Thank you for your continued prayers for strength and for your encouragement, we appreciate it so much more than you know.

New Guidance for Assisted Living

Our team will be meeting this week to discuss in detail all the new guidance for the potential opening to visitors at Friendship Towers Assisted Living. We will not be opening to limited visitors on Monday, June 29th at Friendship Towers. We know there are strong feelings on both sides of this issue. We have protected the residents thus far and want to ensure that they continue to have a safe living environment.

In fact, Karen Venis will be on WKYT tonight discussing the new guidance and how we will have measured steps moving forward.

We will be working on a plan for a phased reopening of Assisted Living, it will then be submitted to the state and once approved, we will share with you. If you have not seen the state guidance, here is your chance. There’s a lot to look through!

If you have specific questions, please direct them to Angela Goodlett, Assisted Living Director at . We understand that feelings are mixed on this for everyone. It’s hard to be separated and hard seeing cases go up in many areas too. Many are naturally nervous. Our concern will be for resident and staff safety first, you can be sure.

The state proposed date for the Healthcare Center reopening is July 15th. We are likely to receive more specifically tailored guidance closer to the date for skilled care.

(June 26, 2020) *Updated at 12:24 PM* We currently have no presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

New Rules 2 NEW Assisted Living Guidelines for Easing of Restrictions

We JUST received guidance late this morning for the proposed June 29th ease of restrictions, so we’re sharing with you!

There is a LOT to unpack for our team. We will be working on a safe plan to submit for approval, so we ask for your patience as we work through these. Keeping the residents and staff safe is our top concern.

TUNE IN to LEX 18 tonight for a further explanation of how we’re pivoting to meet the guidelines safely.

I had quite literally JUST been handed the guidelines that were announced by the state today before the interview, but that’s how life is right now. We pivot 2-3 times per day, depending on new guidelines.

Things change quickly as we all learn more about this virus, so it’s inevitable that there are lots of adaptations.

COVID-19 Testing Update

As you may know, all residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on Tuesday, June 23rd.  At this time, we still have 1 resident and 4 employees who are pending.  The 5 employees who tested positive on Tuesday all tested negative on Wednesday and were tested again on Thursday as directed by the Fayette County Health Department.  We have received 2 negative tests for 2 of the 5 employees and the remaining 3 are still pending.

The 2 employees who have 2 negative tests have been cleared to return to work and we are glad to have them back! ALL 5 of those employees are now NOT considered presumed positive.

Because of the issues we have had with our lab provider, we will be changing lab providers going forward.  Our next round of facility-wide testing will take place on Monday, June 29th and will be processed by Gravity Diagnostics.

You Probably Have Questions

While there is certainly a science to the testing process, it leaves a lot of unanswered questions for residents, family members, staff and public health officials about lab results. This is especially so, considering the very similar and unexpected positive, then negative test results for five asymptomatic residents in a previous round of testing. Those previously presumed positive residents have since been cleared of quarantine by the state health department.

On Monday, June 29th at 3 PM, I invite you to join me and our special guest, Adam Mather, Kentucky’s Inspector General to provide answers to your questions about the COVID-19 testing process. This one-hour session will be an opportunity for family members, residents and employees to get a behind the scenes look at the COVID-19 testing process.

Please register for the Q&A below and submit your testing questions for us to answer live.

Registration for LIVE Q&A

“All You Need to Know about COVID-19 Testing at Sayre Christian Village” ZOOM REGISTRATION 

Submit COVID-19 testing questions to  

Thank you for your continued prayers for strength and for your encouragement, we appreciate it so much more than you know.

Thank you,
Karen Venis, CEO

(June 25, 2020) We currently have 5 presumed positive staff at the Sayre Healthcare Center, 0 positive residents.

To say that the COVID-19 testing process at the Sayre Healthcare Center has been stressful is an understatement and in particular, the last couple of weeks have been nothing short of an emotional roller coaster ride for our staff, residents and family members.

The amount of time and resources that one round of testing requires is nothing less than exhausting and it takes a team of dedicated individuals to make it all run smoothly.  I’m SO proud of our COVID-19 testing team, it certainly takes a village!

SHC Resident COVID-19 Results

As you know, all residents and staff at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on Tuesday, June 23rd. This was our fourth round of facility-wide testing for residents and staff.

As an update to our testing results, 120 of our 121 residents have tested negative and we still have one resident who is pending at this time.

SHC Employee COVID-19 Results

189 of our 200 employees have tested negative and we have six employees who are pending at this time.

Yesterday, I reported that five employees tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, June 23rd. All five employees are asymptomatic, and out of an abundance of caution, were tested again on Wednesday, June 24th.

All five of the five employees that tested positive the day before, tested negative for COVID the next day, on June 24th.

Under the direction of the Fayette County Health Department, those five individuals will be tested again today for COVID-19 to validate the test results. The five employees who originally tested positive will not be able to return to work until they are cleared by the health department.

QuestionYou Probably Have Questions

While there is certainly a science to the testing process, it leaves a lot of unanswered questions for residents, family members, staff and public health officials about lab results. This is especially so, considering the very similar and unexpected positive, then negative test results for five asymptomatic residents in a previous round of testing. Those previously presumed positive residents have since been cleared of quarantine by the state health department.

On Monday, June 29th at 3 PM, I invite you to join me and our special guest, Adam Mather, Kentucky’s Inspector General to provide answers to your questions about the COVID-19 testing process. This one-hour session will be an opportunity for family members, residents and employees to get a behind the scenes look at the COVID-19 testing process.

Please register for the Q&A below and submit your testing questions for us to answer live.

Registration for LIVE Q&A

“All You Need to Know about COVID-19 Testing at Sayre Christian Village” ZOOM REGISTRATION 

Submit COVID-19 testing questions to  

Thank you for your continued prayers for strength and for your encouragement, we appreciate it so much more than you know.

Thank you,
Karen Venis, CEO

(June 24, 2020) We currently have 5 positive staff at the Sayre Healthcare Center, 0 positive residents. 

Sayre Christian Village is a mission-driven organization with deep roots in our community. The services we have provided for over 35 years are critical to the lives of the people we serve, their families, and our community. We are driven by a higher moral purpose to serve this population in accordance with our mission. We care deeply about the role we play to provide much-needed care, services and support for older adults in the Bluegrass.

Our team members are the front line of the coronavirus pandemic and they are heroes to the residents they serve.

The Sayre Healthcare Center staff & residents participated in mass COVID testing on Tuesday, June 23rd. 120 of the resident results have returned negative, with one pending. We have no reason to believe the pending test would return anything but negative. 172 employees at the Healthcare Center have received negative test results, 23 are pending and unfortunately, five came back positive.

The five asymptomatic staff have not worked on campus since results came in. We have notified residents, family members, employees and are working closely with state and local public health officials and the CDC to contain the spread and contact trace. All five COVID-19 positive staff will be quarantined at home for 10 days minimum and must pass two COVID screens and have no symptoms before returning to campus.

These team members will be taken care of until they are made whole. They are Team SCV and Team SCV looks out for each other. We prepared for this day, although we had hoped it would never come. I’m proud of how our clinical staff have responded to these unexpected results. We continue to keep safety for our residents and staff first and foremost and will redouble our efforts against the virus.

  • No cross campus travel/stay on units in the Healthcare Center
  • Temporary halt to Window Visits
  • Beauty Salon will not open yet
  • All staff must wear N95 masks
  • Increase use of PPE like goggles & face shields
  • Continue to educate on the hand hygiene, infection control and PPE usage
  • New restrictions on smoking areas
  • Temporary halt to admissions to the Healthcare Center

We continue to be praised for being able keep the virus at bay for so long at the only nonprofit skilled nursing facility, and one of the largest, in Fayette County. We will continue to update and amend our prevention and preparedness plans and work closely with public health officials and state government.

It’s an honor to care for these residents and I feel lucky to have such a dedicated and focused team. They show up every day to serve this mission during the pandemic of a lifetime. It is a great responsibility and we can’t do it alone. We are grateful for the support of resident families and the larger community.

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” 1 John 5:14

God’s Blessings,
Karen Venis, CEO

(June 23, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Prayers for Sayre

Thank You.

We are constantly humbled by the outpouring of love for our team. Those small messages of encouragement mean so much, especially on these long testing days at the Healthcare Center. Thank you for keeping the Sayre Christian Village campus in your prayers as we continue to give godly care to older adults in the Bluegrass.

Testing at the Healthcare Center Today

Healthcare center resident and staff testing started today at 5 AM and will continue til 7 PM this evening to catch all shifts. So far, testing has gone very smoothly and we should expect results to start coming in tomorrow and thereafter. Residents, staff of the Healthcare Center and Responsible Parties will get a one-call notification and we’ll update everyone via the SCV COVID-19 Information Line (859-899-0831) and website as receive results.

Statewide Baseline Testing

Sayre Healthcare Center participated in mandatory baseline testing on May 28th and all residents and staff were negative for COVID-19. We’ve have had some questions about the statewide testing and how many are left to have that done. We are included in that 27.8% that tested ‘Whole House Negative.’

Current Surveillance Testing Overview

  • Number of facilities left to test 103
  • Number of facilities completed testing 183
  • % Tested Whole House Negative 27.8%
  • Number of facilities scheduled in the next 2 days 17
  • Number of residents tested 18285
  • Number of staff tested 22843

Assisted Living Visitor Restrictions Easing

We have continued to reach out for more concrete guidance from our state agencies. The Kentucky Senior Living Association (KSLA) said that they received a draft of the guidance on Sunday and they turned in their comments on Monday. We should expect official guidance by Thursday or Friday. should have the official guidance by Thursday or Friday. While it’s not much to go on, we know that the date everyone is talking about is June 29th for small group activities, potentially opening some dining and also limited visitors.

If you have any specific questions, send them into the COVID-19 Information Line and we’ll get them answered on here. Your questions might be the same as someone else’s! We are so proud of the way our residents have met the challenge. Trust that our teams are rapidly pivoting to create mock scenarios of what might be allowed. It’s a guessing game, but you can be sure that masks continue to be a part of daily life both on and off campus for everyone’s safety.

Please do your part and wear your mask and keep us in your prayers.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(June 22, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

The 5 Healthcare Center residents who initially tested positive have had additional testing for COVID-19 and have since tested negative.  Because they have tested negative on multiple occasions since their positive test, the health department notified us today that they are no longer at risk for spreading COVID-19 and can be relocated back to their regular rooms on Tuesday, June 23rd – we are very excited for this guidance and I know the residents and families will be as well.

We will continue to keep families updated with the one-call notification system, the COVID-19 information line and also the website as we go through the testing tomorrow at the Sayre Healthcare Center.

Testing at the Healthcare Center

All residents and staff results have come in from the June 19th mass testing at the Sayre Healthcare Center and all were negative.

Our next round of mass testing will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, June 23rd and again on Tuesday, June 30th. If the Healthcare Center staff & residents continue to test negative throughout June, we expect the Window Visits and Beauty Salon to resume.  Window Visits at the Healthcare Center have been temporarily paused to keep residents on units and not moving through the building, increasing the risk for exposure.

(June 18, 2020) We currently have 5 presumed positive COVID-19 cases at the Healthcare Center. 

Loretta “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad!” Psalm 11:24

The results from the COVID-19 testing that took place for residents and employees of the Sayre Healthcare Center on June 16th are almost all in.

ALL RESIDENTS TESTED NEGATIVE for COVID-19.  196 Sayre Healthcare Center employees have tested negative and 4 SHC employee tests are still pending at this time.

The 5 residents who previously tested positive remain asymptomatic and are still being cared for in our designated cohort COVID unit.  All 5 residents were also tested on June 16th and have since tested negative.  Based on guidance from local and state public health officials, these residents will continue to be presumed positive and remain in our COVID unit for 14 days, at which point they will be retested for COVID-19 again.  If they remain asymptomatic and test negative, they will be removed from quarantine after the expiration of the 14-day quarantine period.

Please direct your questions to the COVID-19 Information line at 859-899-0831 and we will follow up in a timely manner.

(June 17, 2020) We currently have 5 presumed positive COVID-19 cases at the Healthcare Center. 

The results from the COVID-19 testing that took place for residents and employees of the Sayre Healthcare Center yesterday on June 16th are coming in.

ALL RESIDENTS TESTED NEGATIVE for COVID-19.   

The 5 residents who previously tested positive remain asymptomatic and are still being cared for in our designated cohort COVID unit.  All 5 residents were also tested on June 16th and have since tested negative.  Based on guidance from local and state public health officials, these residents will continue to be presumed positive and remain in our COVID unit for 14 days, at which point they will be retested for COVID-19 again.  If they remain asymptomatic and test negative, they will be removed from quarantine after the expiration of the 14-day quarantine period.

171 Sayre Healthcare Center employees have tested negative and 29 SHC employee tests are still pending at this time.

Please direct your questions to the COVID-19 Information line at 859-899-0831 and we will follow up in a timely manner. We are so grateful for your prayers! Thank you for being a part of Team SCV.

(June 16, 2020) We currently have 5 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases at the Healthcare Center. 

Keep on the Sunny SideAll five Healthcare Center residents who tested positive last week are not showing any signs/symptoms of COVID-19 at this time. There are no cases on the housing side of campus.

We have received all results from last week’s testing, now including the last two pending employees’ tests. All Healthcare Center employees have returned negative. 

Our next round mandatory COVID-19 testing for all Healthcare Center residents and staff started this morning at 5:30 am and will continue till 7:00 pm.

We will continue to update with those results and there will continue to be testing here at the Healthcare Center until all SHC resident and employee COVID-19 tests return negative.

We ask that you continue to pray for our campus, residents, families and staff.

Philippians 4:6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

We humbly ask for your continued prayers!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(June 15, 2020) We currently have 5 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases at the Healthcare Center. 

All five Healthcare Center residents who have tested positive are not showing any signs/symptoms of COVID-19 at this time. There are no cases on the housing side of campus.

We have received all results from last week’s testing, except for two employees. All employees test results that we have received so far have come back negative.

We do now have confirmation, our next round of mandatory COVID-19 testing for all Healthcare Center residents and staff will be on Tuesday, 06/16/20 from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm. 

There will continue to be testing here at the Healthcare Center until all resident and employee COVID-19 tests return negative.

eCards for Residents

Please take advantage of this option for contacting your loved one. Sending an eCard is quick & easy. Just select the card, fill out the information and type in your message. Cards are usually delivered within 24 hours. Residents love the unexpected ‘mail call!’

Keep an eye out for Father’s Day cards that will go live today!

One Year Ago

Who can forget the Pearl’s Memory Babies Delivery Day? We love this memory from a year ago. Thank you for spreading joy, Pearl’s Memory Babies! 

(June 14, 2020) We currently have 5 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases at the Healthcare Center. 

We have 5 confirmed COVID-19 positive residents. We are still waiting on 3 staff tests to come back from the lab. , but so far, all staff have been negative. There are no cases of COVID-19 on the housing side of campus. Because we have confirmed cases at the Healthcare Center, we will do more mass testing, until we are all negative. The next testing date is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, June 16th. (As soon as we have confirmation, we will update on this page.)

Here are a few immediate updates we are making to limit movement around the Healthcare Center:

  • Window visits  at the Healthcare Center are suspended until further notice.
  • The beauty shop will not open as scheduled on Monday, 06/15.
  • Staff will continue social distancing whenever possible while working.
  • We are encourage residents to stay in their rooms – and will need to  wear a mask if they come out of their rooms.
  • Ongoing COVID-19 surveillance testing will be required for all staff and residents until we are all negative.

Please PRAY for each other, our residents and their family members during this vulnerable time. Please continue to check the SCV COVID-19 Information Line (859-899-0831) for daily updates. Please direct your questions there – we welcome them. Having one strategic place to gather questions helps us to focus the attention of our staff on healthcare. The messages also help us determine what questions we need to elaborate on in further detail here on the website (of course, respecting HIPAA privacy laws and respect for the residents and families affected).

“God is our refuge and strength, our ever present help in trouble.” Ps.  46:1

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(June 13, 2020) We currently have 5 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases at the Healthcare Center. 

As you may know, all 335 residents and employees at Sayre Healthcare Center were tested for COVID-19 on Thursday, May 28th and all tested negative at that time. The mandated testing was a requirement for Kentucky Long-Term Care Facilities. Many housing residents and all housing employees participated in testing on May 29th; all those that tested were negative as well. There are no confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on the housing side of campus.

COVID-19 Positive Cases at Sayre Healthcare Center

On Thursday, June 11th, a single resident at Sayre Healthcare Center tested positive for COVID-19. The resident and their responsible party were notified, and the resident was immediately moved to our designated COVID-19 cohort unit and is being cared for by a dedicated team of staff members. The resident remains asymptomatic at this time and is being closely monitored for a change in condition. We notified residents, family members, employees, state and local public health officials and the CDC as required.

Retesting All Healthcare Center Employees & Residents

Under the guidance of our Medical Director, Dr. Richard, all Healthcare Center residents and staff were tested the following morning on Friday, June 12th.
I regret to inform you that four additional residents have since tested positive for COVID-19. The four residents who tested positive did not have a roommate and are all asymptomatic at this time. All COVID-19 positive residents have been moved to the cohort unit and are under quarantine, separated from all other staff and residents. We have notified the additional four residents and have also been in contact with their family members.

Currently, we have negative results for almost all Healthcare Center staff and only a handful are pending at this time. As we receive more results, we will keep you informed.

Containing the Spread

We prepared for this day, although we had hoped it would never come. I’m so proud of the way our VP of Healthcare Services, Ann Reed and her clinical staff have responded to these unexpected results. We are diligently working to contain the spread. We continue to keep safety for our residents and staff first and foremost.
We are taking every step as recommended by local and state public health officials to contain the spread. We want to make your loved ones, you, our dedicated staff, and our community aware and reassure everyone that we are on top of the situation.

Daily Updates on the COVID-19 Info Line

We ask that you continue to check the SCV COVID-19 Information Line (859-899-0831), as that will have our latest daily information. Please direct all questions there by leaving a voicemail. Our team will be checking those messages several times per day and will respond in a timely manner.

Update Your Responsible Party or Resident Information

Healthcare Center responsible parties are being notified of COVID-19 status changes with a rapid one-call system. If you believe any of this information needs to be updated, please email with any of the below that apply:

  • Resident Name:
  • Resident Phone Number:
  • Resident Email Address:
  • Responsible Party Name:
  • Responsible Party Home Phone Number:
  • Responsible Party Cell Phone Number:
  • Responsible Party Email Address:

Thank you for continuing to keep us in your prayers.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

Potential Re-opening Dates for Long-Term Care

There is chatter from the state associations, the Governor and the Inspector General about when and how to re-open long-term care facilities. We knew that when they decided that the beauticians can start to come back, things were moving in a positive direction. While we must temper our expectations and know that these are just dates with no guidance attached, we finally have some targets for the calendar.

  • June 29 – Communal dining is permitted to begin (expect additional guidance)
  • June 29 – Limited communal activities are permitted to begin (we will seek clarification on this in the coming days)
  • July 15 –  Controlled visitation is permitted to begin (expect additional guidance)

Please understand that any of these dates may change if the state experiences a spike in cases. We encourage you to remain flexible. As soon as we have additional details and guidance, we will provide it to you!

(June 12, 2020) We currently have one confirmed positive COVID-19 case at the Healthcare Center. 

On June 11, 2020, a resident of Sayre Christian Village tested positive for a COVID-19, the illness resulting from the novel coronavirus.  

The asymptomatic resident was in a private room and has since been moved to the COVID-19 cohort unit with the designated COVID-19 team. The resident and the resident’s family members were notified yesterday. We have notified public health officials as required and are following procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

We are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread. We want to make your loved ones, you, our dedicated staff, and our community aware and reassure everyone that we are on top of the situation. While we wish we never had to use them, the plans have been in place for a long time for this scenario.

We implemented our COVID-19 plan on March 4th and have updated and amended the plan daily, sometimes two-to-three times per day, as guidance was relayed from public health officials and state government. We have been aggressive about prevention and infection control from the beginning and will continue to be aggressive going forward with protocols. The safety of the residents and staff will continue to be the highest priority.

Healthcare Center COVID-19 Testing on June 12th

Under guidance from our Medical Director, we are undergoing Healthcare Center-wide COVID-19 testing this morning. Every resident & staff member here is being tested today and we should have results within two to three days. Baseline COVID-19 testing was completed on May 28th facility-wide and all 335 tests were negative at that time.

Temporary Suspension of Window Visits at Healthcare Center

Due to an abundance of caution, we will be suspending window visits at the Healthcare Center at this time to limit the movement throughout the building. Please utilize virtual visits, because connection with your loved one is so important. Please contact activities directors to set up a date and time. In addition, the Father’s Day Parking Lot Parade will also be postponed so that we are not moving residents around the facility at this time. Window Visits are NOT restricted on the housing side of campus at this time.

Please Check the Daily COVID-19 Information Line

We ask that you continue to check the SCV COVID-19 Information Line (859 – 899 – 0831), as that will have our latest daily information. We ask that you please direct all questions there by leaving a voicemail after the daily update message. Our team will be checking those messages multiple times per day and will respond in a timely manner.

You are an important part of TEAM SCV and we are grateful for your support. Please continue to pray for our campus. We will get through this together.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(June 9, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Father's Day

***Update*** The Father’s Day Parking Lot Parade has been cancelled at this time.

Families of residents and staff, please join us to honor your fathers. Our residents enjoy the parades and enjoy seeing the antics of their families rolling by!

Parade begins at 580 Greenfield Dr. Entrance (Friendship Towers Apartments Entrance).

Residents/staff that are participating will be practicing safe social distancing. We ask that families stay in cars at all times.

Resident families, please RSVP to Cindy () at the Healthcare Center or Marcia () on Housing side.

 

See you soon!

(June 4, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Love Your Neighbor. Period.

Because words are not enough, we are taking action and partnering with Green Dot Lexington, a nationally celebrated non-violence program that believes our everyday decisions hold the power to prevent and reduce violence in our home community. Each time someone in Lexington chooses to act to ensure the safety of others, they are putting a green dot (a moment of safety) on our community map.

Green Dot Lexington “envisions Lexington’s community map to be filled with green dots, showing that here in the bluegrass, we do not tolerate any form of violence, and everyone is expected to do their part in keeping this community safe.”

Our staff will undergo training with Dawn Runyon of Green Dot Lexington, to give practical ways to be aware and active bystanders, equipped with the personal tools needed to peacefully resolve potential moments of conflict and live lives that promote respect and safety for all, whether the abuse happening is intimate partner abuse, racial violence, elder abuse, etc.

We have no room here at Sayre Christian Village for racism and will be one of the first in line for the newly revamped Green Dot Lexington training programs.

Salon Services are Coming Back

Mark your calendars! June 15th, Lois and Brenda will be THE most popular folks on campus, because the Beauty Shops are reopening.

Salon Services will be available:

  • 9 AM – 3 PM, Monday – Friday at the Sayre Healthcare Center
  • 9 AM – 3 PM, Monday – Friday at Friendship Towers Apartments
  • Saturdays at Baunta Apartments

Activities will assist with scheduling at the Healthcare Center. For the safety of residents and the cosmetologists, we will be following not just the state guidelines for salons to reopen, but also the even stricter long-term care guidelines. For example, only one resident and one cosmetologist will be in the salon at a time.

An Answered Prayer

We are celebrating an answered prayer today! God is good. Through an incredibly generous private donation (THANK YOU) and some behind-the-scenes help from a few community do-gooders, including Jeff Layne of Dever Inc. Golf Car, Sayre Christian Village welcomed home twin golf carts to help us tour potential residents & families and shuttle community members that come for our mission walks across the 27 acre campus.

Jeff said, “When I heard that Sayre needed help, I jumped at the chance to get involved. Older adults have a special place in my heart & I just love what Sayre Christian Village is doing in the community.”

He said that the twins will be very happy here in ‘retirement.’ We should all be so lucky to retire at such a young age! Welcome to #TeamSCV, new speedy little carts.

Help us name them below!

(June 1, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

 

Testing on the Housing Side of Campus

Thank you for continued patience for testing results at Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers Apartments. Testing was done on the housing side on Friday and those results are just starting to roll in. We do not have any suspected cases in any of those buildings at this time.

(May 28, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Testing at Sayre Healthcare Center Today

Earlier in May, Governor Beshear announced state-wide COVID-19 testing for long-term care facilities. Our residents and staff at the Sayre Healthcare Center underwent the large undertaking of testing today and we couldn’t be happier with the effort from the team.

Thank you to our Medical Director Dr. Richard, his testing team, Donna Jean Meadows Maynard (Director of Nursing), Teresa Adams (Assistant Director of Nursing) and our amazing nursing staff for a great testing day. Your organization, compassion for residents/staff taking the test, plus attention-to-detail made the process go smoothly.

I’m so proud of this team! We have been preparing for this moment and everything went as planned.

Because the lab is processing a mass quantity of tests from all over the state, we do not expect results for up to 72 hours.

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock. Isaiah 26:3-4 

God’s Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 27, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

The Chaplain is IN!

Our residents at Baunta and Forest View Apartments are excited about the newest addition to their neck of the woods…the sight of Chaplain Tyler in his Peanuts knock-off booth! One happy resident recently commented,

“Fantastic idea Tyler. Really needed my visit with you.”

The weather is nice and sunshiny and having an outdoor booth where folks can be socially distant, while wearing their masks has been a great way to safely reintroduce some of our most cherished spiritual services on campus. These services are some of the very reasons that Sayre Christian Village is the top choice for many of our residents.

We are beyond blessed to have a full-time Chaplain on campus and it’s through community support from generous donors that make it possible.

(May 26, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

We hope you enjoyed the Memorial Day holiday! We really can’t believe we didn’t get the rain that was called for! What a blessing to have sunshine after such a rainy spring.

Our campus is truly grateful for those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, those that have served and those that are still serving.

One of the more light-hearted ways the holiday was spent was with a scavenger hunt at Friendship Towers. Patriot leis were the prize for completing our Memorial Day Scavenger Hunt. The photos brought back memories of loved ones who have bravely served our country over the years.

#LoveStillGetsIn with Technology

We are over the moon to report that we have earned a grant from CMS for TWELVE iPads to be used at the Healthcare Center to aid in communication for Virtual Visits, campus communications and also for activities. Just one way our Activities Director is planning to use them is for Zoom BINGO. Can you imagine a year ago that we’d be learning how to pull off Zoom BINGO? Our volunteers would be able to join in to call out BINGO numbers for the residents. We know everyone will be excited to see and hear their voices.

Monticello Banking Company and Senior Crime Stoppers has moved up their grant award for us to be able to purchase several more iPads to round out needs on different units with their yearly Wish Come True grant. They realize that during these tough times, the need is NOW.

Praise God that we have also been approved for a grant for 21 smart TV’s from Blue Grass Community Foundation. With the addition of smart TVs to Healthcare Center rooms, we’ll be able to communicate through a dedicated in-house channel and relay everything from menus, activities, Bible studies and sermons and campus communications.

Testing at the Healthcare Center

We know that you are curious about when mandatory COVID-19 testing will begin at Sayre Christian Village. Unfortunately, we don’t have those answers yet, but anticipate soon as there was a spike in COVID-19 cases in Lexington over the holiday weekend.

We have been aggressive with our measures in place to prevent COVID-19 on campus, but should we have asymptomatic cases, we are fully prepared with an equally aggressive plan for containment of potential positive cases.

What we urge our Healthcare Center residents and families to remember is that testing does not take the place of infection control practices and social distancing, but it is a step that will give everyone peace of mind that asymptomatic cases are caught quickly. We will continue to follow the infection control practices laid out by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS), Kentucky Health Department and local health agencies.

We continue to do our part and are thankful for your patience as we look to the future. We also continue to look to the state for guidance on testing across campus and will share with you as we learn more.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 21, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Mayor Gorton’s Economic Recovery Task Force includes Karen Venis, CEO

Mayor Gorton is releasing her Blueprint for Economic Recovery for Lexington, Kentucky to ensure that we our friends and families can get back to work and do it safely. Karen Venis was honored to be part of the Healthcare Subcommittee and represent the senior living industry for Lexington and add her insight to the discussions.

Mayor Gorton wrote,

“I want to thank all the leaders who contributed to our Blueprint for Economic Recovery, our guide for the transition from Healthy at Home to Healthy at Work. I have no doubt our conversations will continue in the months ahead as the recovery unfolds.

Opportunity is often missed because it comes dressed in overalls and looks like work.

In Lexington, we’re not afraid of work, and we don’t miss opportunities for our City.”

Karen Venis has said she is encouraged by the plans that she has seen and more importantly, by the thoughtful discussions of community leaders. Everyone is working together to push forward safely.

Contact Tracing

Participation in contact tracing turns out it is going to be a vital step in allowing our facilities to be open to visitors in the future. Please, if you do receive a call from an epidemiologist, please answer it.

If all team members, families, residents in housing and of course, the public in general, do this simple thing that costs you nothing but about a half hour of your time, skilled nursing facilities will be one step closer to opening their doors for visitors and volunteers. We are thrilled that the state is rapidly hiring citizens to do more contact tracing so that they can be up to full speed to mitigate pockets of outbreaks in the general public when they occur.

Memorial Day Weekend

I don’t know about you, but Memorial Day Weekend feels like HOPE to us. We are starting the summer months and we are cautiously optimistic as we look forward to baseline testing. We are urging families to keep gatherings to 10 or fewer people this weekend to do your part to keep chances for COVID-19 spread lower.  As we start to see guidance from the state about opening back up in the future, we don’t want one weekend to get in the way of that progress. We all want you back on campus!

“This weekend, think about hands, face and space. So, hands clean and to yourself. Face covered if you’re close and don’t touch it. And, finally, space,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’re going to be really excited to see folks we haven’t in a while, but stay six-feet apart, do it outside if you can, it’s going to make it very safe comparatively.”

The Governor says that other guidance includes wearing masks, gathering outside instead of inside, washing hands frequently and covering food and individually wrapping plates.

(May 20, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Guidance for Safe Reopening of Skilled Nursing Homes

Everyone, including us, has been waiting with bated breath for news of when and how nursing homes will be allowed to open back up.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) very recently announced new guidance for state and local officials to ensure the safe reopening of nursing homes across the country. It details critical steps nursing homes and communities should take prior to relaxing restrictions implemented to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including rigorous infection prevention and control, adequate testing, and surveillance.

However, nothing is set in stone yet. They are still in discussion stage, but it’s something for us all to look at.

CMS gave states different options on how to implement the recommendations, including:

  • A State requiring all facilities to go through each phase at the same time (i.e., waiting until all facilities have met entrance criteria for a given phase).
  • A State allowing facilities in a certain region (e.g., counties) within a state to enter each phase at the same time.
  • A State permitting individual nursing homes to move through the phases based on each nursing home’s status for meeting the criteria for entering a phase.

Factors in the recommendations that should be used to evaluate the relaxation of restrictions included:

  • Case status in community
  • Case status in the nursing home(s)
  • Adequate staffing
  • Access to adequate testing
  • Universal source control
  • Access to adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for staff
  • Local hospital capacity

Testing

With regard to testing, the guidance suggested that the plan should at least test every resident and staff person to establish a baseline. We know this is already happening. We have actually requested to go ahead and do our baseline testing as we are ready and prepared. Please note, that while we wait test results are pending, the state has said that obviously team members can continue to work while this baseline testing occurs if they don’t have symptoms (otherwise we’d have the entire facility off for a day). We are very fortunate in the fact that our Medical Director can get testing results usually within 24 hours.

The guidance suggests that residents should be tested again if in individual(s) later tests positive in the facility. Also, the capacity for weekly testing until all individuals test negative will play a factor. The guidance also suggested that staff should be able to be tested once for an initial baseline test, and then weekly thereafter. State and local leaders can adjust this schedule based on local COVID-19 prevalence.

So, while we do not have anything definitive yet, you can see that we have hope on the horizon. Please continue to pray for the campus as we look forward to our baseline testing. We hope to get approval to start ASAP. We are looking forward to a day when we get the green light to phase back into visitors and volunteers!

Cloth versus Surgical Masks

The following departments will wear surgical masks instead of cloth masks, per recommendations from the CDC.

  1. Housekeeping
  2. Nursing
  3. Therapy

Our staff has been in-serviced regarding mask usage and all other Depts can wear cloth masks at this time. We will also be labeling cloth masks for all residents with their names on them. We are continuing our policy of asking that residents wear masks outside of their rooms.

May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you. — Psalm 33:22

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 18, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

We’d like to thank so many of our supporters by name – you all have just continued to lift us up! Thank you for caring for the only nonprofit senior living community in Fayette County so faithfully.

Today, we’d like to recognize Williams Brothers Health care Pharmacy and Peggy Vernon. She has hunted down PPE for us numerous times and has delivered shipments all the way from Indiana! She also brings little gifts with her for our healthcare heroes. We appreciate your support, Peggy.

(May 15, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

As we wrap up National Skilled Nursing Care Week, we are recognize our team and our residents and families and celebrate another week down with no cases.

Please take a moment to watch the video below from the the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services to learn more about recent steps and future steps that are being taken in response to COVID-19 preparedness in long term care. We appreciate the support of CHFS because, yes, we are ALL in this together.

Mayor Gorton Announces a Special Proclamation

We are honored that Mayor Linda Gorton, a nurse herself, has chosen to honor our profession in this way and declare National Skilled Nursing Week in Lexington, Kentucky!  Select to view the official proclamation.

WHEREAS we honor and respect our elders and citizens of any age with physical or intellectual disabilities who reside in skilled nursing care centers in Lexington, KY and,

WHEREAS skilled nursing care centers throughout our area are holding socially distanced & virtual activities in observance of National Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 10 to 16, 2020, using this year’s theme of “Sharing Our Wisdom,” and,

WHEREAS I urge all citizens to virtually visit, send an eCard or call a loved one, family member or friend residing in any care setting and offer a kind word to unite those from all walks of life in need of our continuing love and support; and,

NSNCWWHEREAS my administration is committed to quality health care, we take this moment to embrace the essence of the theme “Sharing Our Wisdom.” Let’s join all residents, patients, caregivers, nurses, other staff and volunteers in celebrating this special week; and,

THEREFORE, do I, Linda Gorton, as Mayor of Lexington, declare the week of May 10 to 16, 2020, as National Skilled Nursing Care Week, a week to honor both our vulnerable citizens who receive care and the dedicated ones giving care.

WHEREAS we honor and respect our elders and citizens of any age with physical or intellectual disabilities who reside in skilled nursing care centers in Lexington, KY and,

WHEREAS skilled nursing care centers throughout our area are holding socially distanced & virtual activities in observance of National Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 10 to 16, 2020, using this year’s theme of “Sharing Our Wisdom,” and,

WHEREAS I urge all citizens to virtually visit, send an eCard or call a loved one, family member or friend residing in any care setting and offer a kind word to unite those from all walks of life in need of our continuing love and support; and,

WHEREAS my administration is committed to quality health care, we take this moment to embrace the essence of the theme “Sharing Our Wisdom.” Let’s join all residents, patients, caregivers, nurses, other staff and volunteers in celebrating this special week; and,

THEREFORE, do I, Linda Gorton, as Mayor of Lexington, declare the week of May 10 to 16, 2020, as National Skilled Nursing Care Week, a week to honor both our vulnerable citizens who receive care and the dedicated ones giving care.

I Am Proud Of This Campus!

To have the Mayor recognize our profession makes me over-the-moon proud. I am proud to work here and serve our deserving residents. It’s truly an honor to work at a mission that is standing by the promise to provide hope, housing and healthcare.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 13, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” — C.S. Lewis

This week is National Skilled Nursing Care Week and we are celebrating all things skilled nursing. We are sharing words of wisdom and we are telling our stories. We are so grateful for the amazing staff we have at Sayre Healthcare Center. You  are doing essential work that is seen and appreciated.

(May 12, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Amazing Turnout for the Parade!

Wow! All we can say is WOW. Thank you for showing up and showing how much you care for your mamas that live here and work here.

We can honestly say we were blown away by the community support. Rodders, Inc and The Rebel Corvettes of the Bluegrass showed up with the most amazing classic cars, Elvis LIVES and we got to see the newest firetruck from the Local Fire Department. We so appreciate the Belleau Wood Neighborhood for being so patient because cars backed all the way from Friendship Towers to the Wilson Downing street light.

All I have to say is, if we have this much support for a drive by parade, what is the rejoicing going to look like when we get to welcome families back to campus? That’s a fun thing to imagine! Thank you for showing us all that #LoveStillGetsIn.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more videos and clips of the parade!

Guidance for Care Packages, Personal Items & Deliveries

Due to COVID-19 and visitor restrictions in place, we are receiving so many deliveries for our residents and we need your help! 

Can you please make sure that any items you drop off or that you have delivered include your loved one’s name and/or room number?  This will allow us to get the items to our residents in a much quicker fashion. Your loved ones really enjoy these thoughtful gifts.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 11, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Mother’s Day Parking Lot Parade is TODAY!

We hope to see you later today at the Mother’s Day Parade! It will be chilly, so some residents will be viewing from their windows. Wave & honk loud! We will be joined by two classic car clubs and a brand new fire truck! Should be quite the sight!

The parade starts at 2 PM sharp at 580 Greenfield Drive entrance, by Friendship Towers. Here is a map to ensure you know where to line up!

Sharing our Wisdom

National Skilled Nursing Care Week is in full force today with a kickoff parade, but we have also already started ‘sharing our wisdom’, this year’s theme.

If you follow us on Facebook, you’ve seen several posts lately featuring history and stories of our residents and their great accomplishments. If you haven’t read this story of resiliency, you need to! It will brighten your day.

Thank you to our wonderful staff! The Sayre Christian Village healthcare center team is playing a critical role in caring for residents and saving lives, and that deserves to be honored and celebrated this week.

NSNCW is also a time to recognize residents, their special relationships with staff, and the family members that all make up our unique and wonderful community.”

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 8, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Mother’s Day Parking Lot Parade on Monday

Monday’s schedule looks sunny (and a little cool), so the Mother’s Day parade has been rescheduled for Monday, May 11th at 2:00 pm. We will line up at 580 Greenfield Drive (entrance to Friendship Towers). My hope is that you will invite your family members to join in the fun! Some residents may be inside waving from windows due to the unseasonable chill in the air, but they will see lots of fun classic cars and a fire truck drive by…as well as what they want to see most – glimpses of you!

National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW) May 10th through May 16th

NSNCW recognizes the essential role of skilled nursing care centers in caring for the residents that we serve. This year, while it is more important than ever to recognize our staff and residents in our skilled nursing care centers because of COVID-19, it is a challenge to figure out how best to do so. Because we are restricted from doing group activities and have to encourage good social distancing, things will look a little different for us this year, but we will still have a great time!

Complete the 2020 Census

The 2020 Census is happening now and you can respond online at www.2020census.gov, by phone at 844-330-2020 or by mail. Census results have an impact on planning and funding for health clinics and highways, fire departments and disaster response, education programs such as Head Start and college tuition assistance, and so much more.

COVID-19 Testing

The Governor and the Office of Inspector General are launching a plan next week to test everyone, both residents and staff in long term care facilities for COVID-19. As we know more about how that affects the residents and team members at the Healthcare Center, we will communicate that information with you. We are also working with the Department of Aging and Independent Living to get guidance on COVID-19 testing for Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers. Gov. Beshear is urging Kentuckians to take advantage of expanding coronavirus testing across the state. More information to follow.

Face Mask Fundraiser

Looking for a face mask for you or your family members? Wearing a mask can reduce the chance from spreading the virus to others. Design Link Interiors has been racking their brains on how they can help with COVID-19 and they are selling masks for $10 each, and the best part? The proceeds will go to Sayre Christian Village so we can further our mission of hope, housing, and healthcare for over 375 older adults amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Look at the patterns and purchase yours today!

The next few weeks are going to be tough for us because as Kentucky “opens up”, it also increases the risk of COVID-19 on our campus. Please continue to work hard and do your part, our residents are counting on you!

I hope all the Mothers I have the honor to work with and serve have a great Mother’s Day. We feels it’s a special honor to be caring for Mothers even more so this year than ever before.

“Motherhood is the biggest gamble in the world. It is the glorious life force. It’s huge and scary — it’s an act of infinite optimism.” Gilda Radner

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 7, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Testing Residents and Staff in Skilled Nursing

Next week, testing will begin in all skilled nursing facilities across Kentucky. There is currently not a plan to test assisted living and independent living state-wide.

While we don’t know what date our facility will be tested, we know it is based on current ‘hot spots’ in the local area. We are currently preparing on the front end all requirements that the state has asked for and will be ready for the call from either the HealthCare Acquired Infection team from the Division of Epidemiology in the Department for Public Health or from a Representative of Norton Health Care.

The testing team and our team will work together on a testing strategy. Staff will be allowed to work while waiting on test results if they are asymptomatic and we should expect test results to be  given 24 to 48 hours after collection.

Ways to Stay in the Loop

We are sure you’ll be looking for test results (so will we), so please make sure you have updated your contact information. If there should be a positive case on campus, we will use the one-call notification system to alert POAs, residents and staff. We will also update the SCV Covid-19 Information Line (859) 899-0831 with the announcement as well, and you can call it 24/7. We will also be frequently updating this website, several times/week with new protocols and plans and guidance, when it is passed on to us.

Thank you for your prayers – we are grateful for them always.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6-7

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 6, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Largest Single Day Spike

Tuesday was the largest jump in number, with 625 cases, of which were newly confirmed Tuesday. More than 300 of the positive cases were from testing at Green River Correctional Complex.
Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear also reported 14 new deaths Tuesday, raising the state’s toll to 275 deaths related to the virus. Many of those deaths were related to long-term care facilities, the Governor said.

LeadingAge reports that as of 5 p.m. May 4, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 828 residents testing positive for COVID-19 in Long Term Care or Assisted Living across the state. 331 staff tested positive for COVID-19 and 152 people have died due to COVID-19, including two staff persons. This is based on 79 LTC/Assisted Living facilities.

With numbers like those, including a larger number than normal reported for Lexington yesterday, we are continuing to go over education for our staff on PPE and proper usage. There can never be enough review! We constantly review protocols and plan so that we are ready in the event that we have a case on campus.

Mother’s Day Is Around the Corner

Connecting residents like Betsy & her son & daughter-in-law with a window visit gives them HOPE for the future during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our mission at Sayre Christian Village is to provide HOPE, housing & healthcare to older adults. While visitors have to stay out for now, LOVE STILL GETS IN.

Thank you to Mothers and daughters and sons for making that sacrifice this upcoming holiday.

National Nurse Day

We are so proud of the way Team SCV cares for our residents and nurses play such a big role in how we do that. We also honor all the nurses that we have the privilege to care for.

Have you thanked a nurse today? Here is your chance! Click the ‘card’ below and comment on Facebook!

https://www.facebook.com/sayrechristianvillage/videos/1329307583930678/

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 5, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

#GivingTuesdayNOW

Today is ‘Giving Tuesday NOW,’ a global day of online giving. You may recognize ‘Giving Tuesday’ because it is the day right after Cyber Monday in December when supporters give back to nonprofits after a couple days of heightened online shopping. It’s a wonderful idea and the folks behind the drive decided December was just too far off – the need was NOW, and the #GivingTuesdayNOW campaign began.

This year, we are participating in the global drive and asking folks to also think outside the box! We have two unique campaigns – the Mother’s Day campaign to honor a loved one in your life and also the #LoveStillGetsIn Face Masks.

Please consider a gift on this international day of giving that will directly benefit older adults in the Bluegrass and further our mission of hope, housing and healthcare.

COVID-19 Testing Guidelines 

Skilled Nursing Residents:

While the guidelines are technical in nature, we believe in transparency.

If a skilled nursing resident has a temperature of 99.0 or greater, we will recheck their temperature and document how temperature was obtained (orally, axillary, rectal, or tympanic). Resident will be placed in isolation for and will be tested for COVID-19.  Staff will be required to wear appropriate PPE for COVID-19 (N95 mask, face shield, gown, gloves and shoe covers). The resident will remain in isolation for 14 days. On the 13th day resident will be retested for COVID-19 and if negative will be removed from isolation on the 14th day. MD/ARNP should be notified of any change in residents’ status. CEO, Administrator, and Director of Nursing should be notified.

Employees:

Any employee entering the building will be screened and have their temperature checked and given a mask before reporting to work.

Any employee that has a temperature of 99.0 or greater will have their temperature rechecked and the facility will document how the temperature was obtained ((oral, axillary, tympanic etc.). If an employee exhibits more than one COVID-19 symptom (sore throat, cough, SOB, Temperature, diarrhea) along with temperature, the employee will be tested for COVID-19.  The Director of Nursing should be notified in the event an employee has a temperature and more than one symptom.  The Director of Nursing will notify the Administrator and CEO in the event an employee is tested for COVID-19.

Mother’s Day Parade Rescheduled

Brr! This week looks to be a strange one with colder temps and lots of rain. The forecast is calling for a 70% chance of rain on Friday, so we are rescheduling the Mother’s Day Parade to Monday, May 11th when skies should be sunny again! What could be a better way to kick off National Skilled Nursing Care Week AND celebrate our Mothers, both resident and staff!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(May 1, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Long-term care facilities continue to be one of the hotspots for the coronavirus in Kentucky, according to the Governor’s briefing yesterday.

Twenty-four new cases were reported among residents, five staff members and two residents died. This brings the totals to 727 residents, 307 staff and 122 deaths, 121 of which were residents. Seventy-four facilities have now reported cases and account for just over half of the deaths in Kentucky.

This is why we must continue to be vigilant. Of course, over the weekend, with the gorgeous weather, folks will get a bit of ‘spring fever.’ We urge you to continue to stay 6 feet apart and follow the the guidelines that are in place for social distancing. These folks below are worth it.

(April 30th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

We are closing out another month and are grateful that we can say that we remain COVID-19 free. March and April have been so challenging, let’s just say it.

It felt like March came in AND out like a lion. April certainly brought the showers and now let’s really hope for some May flowers.

We definitely feel calmer than we did at the start of this because we have less daily pivots for new regulations. There is a wee bit less whiplash. Of great concern for us is what will come as things start to reopen, so we remain on heightened alert and continue to be vigilant about infection control, education and constant review of protocols.

Mother’s Day Challenge

Let’s change our Facebook profile pictures to our favorite pics of “MOM” or a picture of yourself as a mom. We have a new Facebook frame to honor moms that reside in senior living since they won’t be able to give kisses to their children on Mother’s Day this year. We also honor moms that care for the most vulnerable in senior living.

We’re keeping the virus out, but #LoveStillGetsIn.

https://www.facebook.com/sayrechristianvillage/posts/3297506526950106

Window Visits

Family members interested in scheduling a window visit can do so in advance. Window visits are no simple task and require a lot of work on all fronts – thank you to so many staff members for helping make these go smoothly. If you haven’t done one, we certainly encourage you to! They are really helpful for family members to feel that connection and get the reassurances that everyone is OK. These mamas worry about their children!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 29th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Be The Light

Be The Light

Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

We praise God for the fact that we remain COVID-free. Please keep #TeamSCV in your prayers as we continue to give compassionate care to over 375 residents while battling to prevent the virus from entering our campus.

The responsibility is heavy, but we are strengthened by your prayers & community support! Thank you to so many of our supporters that continue to lift us and our residents up.  

Stop the Spread…Let Love In

We have some exciting news! The fantastic ladies at Design Link Interiors are partnering with us to raise funds for SCV COVID-19 Relief. They are custom designing masks with designer fabrics that you won’t make you groan to wear!

Head over to their Facebook page and give them a LIKE. You’ll be one of the first to snag the limited edition, custom Design Link Interior designer masks! We are mission driven and community-supported. Thank you for furthering our mission. Stay tuned!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 28th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

LEC PAINT Refreshed Life Enrichment Center

We’re looking to the future. We’re excited about the day when our residents are allow to get together in small groups again…and then big groups…and then when our doors can open back up to visitors. To prepare for that, we’re working on refreshing our Life Enrichment Center at the Healthcare Center. It’s separated from the main skilled care wings, so work can go on without disturbing our residents and they’ll be in for a treat when they see the finished product!

Carpet is coming up and matching plank flooring is going down. Beige-gold walls are getting refreshed with a light and bright grey! The space will be inviting and exciting for our residents, team and families! See the difference already – look at the difference between the ceiling and the walls.

Mother’s Day Photos

We’re thinking OUTSIDE the box this year for ways that we can make Mother’s on campus feel special.

We’d love to show off retro or vintage pictures of ‘Mom.’ We know you’re proud of her and she’s proud of YOU. If you’d like Mom to be featured on Facebook in a photo that she would find special, please send to Elise Hinchman, VP of Marketing & Development at with a ‘message’ from family for us to post!

Grants for Tablets

CMS is allowing for small CMP grants for nursing facilities to be used for the purchase of communicative devices, such as tablets and web-cams, to increase the ability for nursing homes to help

residents stay connected with loved ones and help residents attend telehealth visits. The money will be limited to purchase one device for every 7 to 10 residents with a maximum of $3,000 per

facility. We have applied for the maximum amount and hope to have an announcement soon!

We are always working on ways to improve communication and we have been ramping up our digital communications over the past month. Please click the infographic and take a look at the different options for rapid communication and changes. If you feel your information needs to be updated so that you receive all these options, please contact .

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

 

(April 27th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

#TeamSCV

We have worked too hard and now is not the time to let up – it is critical we keep up the hard work! It’s easy to “cheat” but we need to remain committed to the health and safety of our team members and our residents. Show everyone around you that you are doing your part so they can model your great behavior. I’ve never been more proud to serve on this campus.

We will continue to follow the guidelines set out for us by the Governor and CMS, etc…we must remember that this campus is THE MOST vulnerable population, so while the state is phasing into reopening some businesses, the senior population is one thing that the federal and state do agree on. We are to sit tight and bide our time for a wee bit more.

So, until then, we’ll remain with masks on, 6 feet apart, following social distance guidelines…and staying HEALTHY!

Please DO go outside and get fresh air on beautiful days like today, just be oh so careful not to congregate. Please absolutely set up Window Visits and continue to get that contact that is so important with families.

Blue Willow Farm Horse Visit

Our friends at Blue Willow Farm were on campus with Grace & Reggie to visit with the residents. Can you imagine a more beautiful day for it?

The 2 horses have been laid off since 03/18 and were in great need of some exercise and have lots of free time on their hands (hooves). The residents were all smiles for the friendly and BIG visitors!

Mother’s Day Parking Lot Parade

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Friday, May 8th at 2:00pm for our Mother’s Day Parking Lot Parade! This will be a fun event for residents, staff and family members. I encourage you to invite your family to come and participate in the parade. My husband and kids are looking forward to it! You can decorate your cars with balloons, signs, streamers, etc. Of course, families will need to stay in the cars at all times so that we are practicing safe social distancing. Please refer to the map for the starting position.

Do you know anyone that has a vintage car or belongs to a vintage car club that would like to participate? We’d love to have them join us! Please contact Marcia Martin at .

Honoring Mom

We didn’t expect to be planning a Mother’s Day Parking Lot Parade instead of a Mother’s Day Tea, but here we are, practicing social distancing, under visitor restrictions, and working toward creating positive, engaging and entertaining ways for our residents to still feel connected.

As much of our attention is focused, rightly so, on critical services like health care, PPE supplies (we spent over $26,000 on PPE at the Healthcare Center alone last month!), and ever-changing guidelines, we want to continue to inspire, encourage, and empower our residents during this precarious time.

We look forward to when our doors will re-open and our programs will resume. Until then, we will prepare to make up for lost time and set a course for the future. We hope that you will join us in making sure that our mission remains sustainable as we navigate this unknown territory with a gift that honors Mom. 

Mothers Day Donation

We believe in keeping love, joy, and patience flowing – even while engaging in social distancing.

Honoring your Mother with a gift to Sayre Christian Village will bring happiness and light NOW and also allow us to plan for when we can stretch beyond the borders of campus again.

Until then, #LoveStillGetsIn.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 23th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

The rainy weather can not keep our spirits down!

We are feeling energized on campus today with the return of Window Visits! If you have not signed up, give it a look over and pick your day! You’re going to love how easy it is to schedule and you’ll give your loved one something to look forward to!

For Window Visit questions, please reach out to Chaplain Tyler at and he’ll be glad to walk you through the process of scheduling.

God’s Blessings,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 22th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

COVID-19 Relief Facebook Fundraiser

Thanks to all our families, residents, staff and community supporters, the SCV COVID-19 Relief Facebook Fundraiser has raised over $16,ooo! Your generosity  has been so touching during the past weeks. We are grateful for the investment you have made in the mission. There is just a little more time before the Fundraiser is over, so if you feel called to donate, your gift would make an impact.

Story Corps…Sayre Christian Village-Style

The residents on campus never cease to amaze me and all the 1:1 visits the Activities teams are doing with residents are uncovering even more interesting and fascinating stories than ever before. We have been featuring some on Facebook, so check back frequently to find stories such as Mary Ann’s wedding dress and many others.

Many residents like to have the comments read to them or read them themselves and get a kick out of folks leaving positive comments. If your loved one likes to ‘show & tell’, let us know and we’ll pay a special visit to document their story in a post or video.

This generation is SPECIAL and sharing the creativity and resilient backgrounds of our dearest is one of VP of Marketing & Development’s favorite things. Contact Elise at and let her know a little background information and she’ll do her best to interview, photograph or capture the essence of a favorite family story, a favorite family heirloom, a funny family story that the resident likes to tell (again & again)!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 21th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

LTC COVID-19 Positive Cases in Kentucky

As of last night at 5pm, Governor Beshear announced that there have been 408 residents that have tested positive for COVID-19, 184 staff have tested positive and 59 deaths attributable to COVID-19 have occurred in LTC/Assisted Living facilities. We are so very fortunate to not have a positive case of COVID-19 on our campus and we thank you for all the ways you are helping to keep it at bay.

We are all in this together and the Steele family example shows us just how connected we all become, especially after being in residence for 6 years on campus. Thank you for sharing your insight, Lisa. It’s great to hear from residents, families and team members. This is NOT easy, but we’re in it together.

Window Visit Update

Congratulations on making it through the ’14 Day Healthy at Home Challenge!’ We are so proud of our campus. We credit the hard work of staff, residents and families for working together and being patient.

After the challenge, we reviewed our protocols and guidance and put additional safety measures in place so that we can open these back up!

  • Window visits will occur Monday through Friday and must be scheduled in advance using the calendar tool.
  • Residents and staff will wear masks to/from and during window visits to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
  • We are going to schedule them one hour apart to allow time to transport resident to/from window visit, clean/sanitize location, etc.
  • Windows/doors must remain closed during the entire visit.
  • Staff members and residents will need to stay inside the building during the entire visit.  Families who wish to drop off goodies/items need to leave those items at the front door so we can properly sanitize them before bringing items into the facility.
  • Window visits should not have more than 2 family members/friends per visit so that we ensure we are engaging in proper social distancing.
  • So that everyone has an opportunity to visit, we are asking that family members limit their visits to once/week.
  • Our goal is to limit movement of residents and staff throughout our buildings, so we encourage virtual visits as well that can be scheduled through activities directors and also social services.

Blue Willow Farm Therapeutic Horse Visit

Blue Willow Farm has contacted us and would like to bring their horses, Moran Mare & Reggie to have window visits with our residents.  The 2 horses have been laid off since 03/18 and are in great need of some exercise and have lots of free time on their hands (hooves).  They will be volunteering their time and be visiting our campus on Monday, April 27th.  We will be visiting all 4 buildings on campus!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 20th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Mother’s Day Parking Lot Parade

Can you believe this is right around the corner? We anticipate that this holiday will be extremely poignant for you this year. Let’s make sure we mark the occasion with something memorable.

We’ll be hosting a parking lot parade/car parade throughout campus at 2 pm. Dress up your vehicle, make signs and get ready to honk, cheer & wave at your loved one, whether they are staff or resident!

Resident families, please RSVP to Cindy Adwell at () or Marcia Martin () to let us know that you’ll be joining us that day.

Of course, we ask that all families stay inside their car and we will ensure that we all socially distance during the parade as well.

Window Visits

Congratulations on making it through the ’14 Day Healthy at Home Challenge!’ We are so proud of our campus. We continue to be COVID-19 free and credit the hard work of staff, residents and families for working together and being patient.

As we speak, we’re working on plans to open up limited window visits at all buildings across campus very soon. Of course, everything is subject to change, but right now we’re looking at setting designated locations, designated times & schedules with limitations on how many family members can attend to ensure that we’re still not gathering in groups. Stay tuned for more information because you’ll hear something likely within a day!

Hospital Coordination

As you know, our plan is to transfer a resident to a higher level of care for their safety and for the safety of other residents and staff if we should have a positive case of COVID-19 on campus. We can report that we feel confident in the protocols and relationships we have with our local hospitals and feel certain that transfers will go smoothly and rapidly.

We are appreciative of the collaboration to ensure that our residents get the best care and treatment both at the hospital and at Sayre Christian Village. Praise God that we have made it through yet another weekend without a case on campus.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 17th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Our Logo is like a Stained Glass Window

The Sayre Christian Village logo represents several things, much like a stained glass window. Our logo represents all four buildings on campus. The cross is front & center to remind us to have Christian compassion in all that we do. Hope, housing & healthcare are the foundation. Hope comes FIRST…for how can you provide housing & healthcare without first providing hope?

#TeamSCV

Team SCV consists of our essential staff, residents and families. We are proud of our team AND residents and families – they are all working together to prevent the virus from entering the campus. We wore our spirit swag today to celebrate the teamwork and for making it through another week COVID free.

“Sayre has always been a very special place. From the standpoint of a former employee and now resident I can honestly say God has blessed me beyond imagination by placing me here.” — Charlotte Potter, resident

Good Neighbor Spotlight

Thank you, Lynn Imaging & Monster Color, for your generosity! You support our mission in so many ways. I appreciate your commitment to our ministry!

The donation of face shields means the world to us, our residents & their families. Thanks for checking on your neighbor.

Transparency

We are committed to continuing to be a source of solid information and transparent facts for our residents, team members and families. We know the fear of not-knowing heightens anxiety. We have been aggressive in our measures to keep the virus to date, and promise to continue fight to keep it off campus and promise to share knowledge.

  • Daily COVID-19/Coronavirus Update Information Line – Sayre Christian Village has set up a dedicated information phone line that will be updated daily with any new information that has changed. If you have a concern or question, you may leave a message and your call will be returned within 24 hours. The direct number is (859) 899-0831 or you may dial our main number and you will be prompted for the hotline: (859) 271 – 9000, dial 9. Messages that are left will be returned within 24 hours.
  • Website News Tab – Please continue to check our website for updates for changes in protocols or recommendations. (There may not ALWAYS be a weekend update on the website, but there should always be a hotline update).
  • Social Media – As information changes, we will update the Sayre Christian Village Facebook page.

Have a great weekend and take of yourselves!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 16th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Healthcare & Housing Warriors

The teams’ hard work continues to pay off!  We are blessed to report that we do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus!  While the measures we have taken may seem to be aggressive and inconvenient, they are necessary and THEY ARE WORKING!!  Governor Beshear has reported the following information for nursing homes in Kentucky (as of 5:30pm on 04/15/20):

  • 156 residents in 38 senior living facilities are confirmed positive
  • 137 staff members have tested positive
  • 37 resident deaths, including 1 staff member

OIG Targeted Health Inspection Survey

The Office of Inspector General was onsite on Wednesday, 04/15/2020 to perform a targeted infection control survey for the Healthcare Center.  The OIG has previously announced that they will be surveying facilities who don’t have confirmed cases to ensure we are following all guidance to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  The surveyor was very pleased with our response and prevention plan and found no deficient practices/policies in place.  A special thank you to Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing Services and Ann Reed, Administrator for their efforts to ensure we have a sound plan in place!

COVID-19 Testing

The governor has issued a new executive order requiring long term care facilities to report the following information to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) on a daily basis:

  • Total number of staff and residents tested for COVID-19 each day; and
  • Daily total of staff and residents whose COVID-19 test results are positive

The intent of this order is so that the CHFS can rapidly identify potential outbreaks.  We will update our policy to include this going forward.

Encouraging Residents to Wear Masks

We simply can’t be too safe, and where appropriate, we have encouraged our residents to wear masks if care is being provided or if they are in public/common areas.  While there is no regulation mandating this, it can help slow the spread.

“Thankful Thursday” Lunches

Today’s lunch was provided by The Brown Barrel in Midway, Kentucky and it was delicious!  Can you help lift up our small businesses and go to their Facebook page and give them a shout out.  Also, feel free to add them to your list of options when you don’t want to cook!

Keep doing your part!

I am so proud of the work that my team is  doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on our campus!  I continue to be humbled by the support we are receiving from our residents, our staff, our donors, our volunteers and our community in general!  You have my commitment that we will do everything we can to continue to fight for our team members and residents during these vulnerable times.  Hang in there, love one another and continue to lift each other up!

Thank you for your sacrifices. Remember, even in the darkness, love still gets in.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 15th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Light Up GreenThe last few days have been tough for other senior living facilities across the state of Kentucky.

Praise the Lord, we don’t have any confirmed cases at Sayre Christian Village, but we are all fighting the same fight – to protect our most vulnerable population.

We are saddened to hear of the passing of the first healthcare worker in Kentucky. She cared for older adults honorably at a long-term care facility in Adair County.

We Pray for our Brothers & Sisters in Senior Living

Last night and going forward, we honor her and other Kentuckians, many of them residents of long-term care facilities, that have died from the virus.

The coronavirus has now made it’s way into 38 facilities. As of today, 256 residents and 137 staff in senior living communities have contracted the virus.

Please continue to keep them and their families in your prayers.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 14th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

Love Thy Neighbor

Help us say THANK YOU to Smashing Tomato for the incredibly generous donation of tables & chairs to help us refresh out-of-date staff break rooms at the Healthcare Center.

They overheard that a new coat of paint was all that was in the budget due to the COVID-19 crisis & they got right to work in their warehouse! Our Healthcare Heroes will be so appreciative once we can “gather ‘round the tables” again in the remodeled break areas.

ABC36 shared the Good Neighbor story about “one business reaching out to another to meet a need. And they both are saying thank you.” We are blessed to partner with a restaurant that shares many of the same values that we do. In their own time of need, they are reaching out to help the community and they are loving their neighbor!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis

(April 13th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

I just want to take a moment to lift up our team members who are working this holiday weekend. I appreciate the work that you each do to provide great care to our residents! Thanks for spending your Saturday and Easter Sunday with our residents. You truly went above and beyond to ensure that virtual visits and phone calls that were scheduled in abundance all happened, while also spreading light and love and HOPE.

Happy Easter from the Weekend Staff

Easter Group Picture Easter Group Picture 2 Easter Group Picture 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday Service is Digital

Chaplain Tyler and our own Lead Housekeeper, Millie Johnson, delivered an Easter message this Sunday again and the video is worth the watch. We are so fortunate to have a full-time chaplain on campus. Good infection control practices mean limiting movement around campus, so our housing residents have not been able to visit in person with Chaplain Tyler as they would like. He is making himself available to them digitally via phone call, virtual visit and also through new Sunday sermons that we’ll air on Facebook and YouTube.

Thank you for the ways in which you continue to show your support. We were blown away by the positive messages of “we’re in this together” from families and residents alike after the WTVQ news story aired late last week. We are battling for your loved one, but to a person, I believe we all feel that you’re right there with us. We’re tired, you’re tired. You’re anxious, we’re anxious. But, together, with God’s help, we’re going to come out the other side stronger. Our team is proud to serve!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 10th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus. 

During Governor Beshear’s nightly address yesterday, he spoke about how he is proud of the faith community. He said that we have to be wary of folks dropping the social distancing guidance due to the holidays because it risks those that didn’t make that choice.

“I have never been as sure of anything in my faith as I am in this: We must protect each other,” Gov. Beshear said. He said now is not the time to make an exception on social distancing. “Let’s make sure we do even better this weekend than we did last weekend…. We are in a test of our humanity,” Gov. Beshear said. “And you are passing it. But here’s the challenge: We have to pass it every day, we have to pass it every hour of every day.”

Thank you to our Baunta, Forest View, and Friendship Towers Residents

It is the same with our congregate living situation. We are thinking very much of our fantastic residents on the housing side of campus. They are doing a great job of staying healthy at home and we are thankful for their sacrifice that can save their own lives, and the lives of their neighbors.

Let US do the heavy lifting for you.

We intend to hold the hand of our housing residents through these uncertain times.

  • Questions about groceries & supplies? We can help.
  • Don’t know how to communicate via video chat? We’ll set you up!
  • Not sure when Bauta Café is serving? We’ll assist.
  • Concerned about your medications? You just call us.
  • Telehealth? What’s that? We’ll get it sorted. 

Housing Contact List for Resources & Assistance (859) 271 – 9000

Think of us as your concierge. Families, residents, please don’t hesitate to ask. 

Campus Chaplain – Tyler Greene –
Service Coordinator – Keri Marcum –
Assisted Living Director – Angela Goodlett –
Director of Independent Living – LeeAnn Peach –
Occupancy Specialist – Amanda Gannon –
Property Manager – Vicki Allawati –
Housing Activities Director – Marcia Martin –

Good Friday Communion

Chaplain Tyler, Sara Beth Floyd and our team will be passing individually packaged communion wafers and juice to our residents today so that they may partake if they wish. Chaplain Tyler will also be leading an Easter service that will air on our Facebook page at 10 am on Sunday. We encourage you to watch for a message of HOPE.

Thank You

We can’t express in one paragraph all the ways that our community is ‘remembering us.’ We have recently received a donation of 100 face shields from Monster Color, more hand sewn face masks from Sharron Lanham, support from friend of SCV, former MLB star Doug Flynn, and many more gifts of love shown to us! Thank you to everyone reaching out with messages of courage and stamina for our team!

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 9th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

We are All in This Together

Governor Beshear announced yesterday there are 1346 positive cases of COVID-19 in Kentucky and that there have been 73 deaths.

The Governor is starting to increase focus placed on Long Term Care Facilities because there are 25 facilities that have confirmed cases of COVID-19.  72 residents and 35 staff have tested positive, with 13 deaths to complications. Please keep these other facilities in your prayers as we are All in This Together! 

Heroes at Work Program

As you know, we value our team members very much! They are fighting the good fight in this COVID-19 battle. We had implemented a COVID-19 Employee Stimulus to help them during the first weeks of anxiety. This program will now be replaced with our new Heroes at Work Program starting Sunday, April 12th.  Through this program, all staff will receive an additional $7 per hour worked, replacing the $2 per hour stimulus. This is a temporary program in response to the pandemic and available due to the Payment Protection Plan that Sayre Christian Village has applied Easter Service for.  This grant has the potential to give an employee an additional $1120 a month for 80 hours worked during this stressful time. We sure can’t do what we do without our amazing team and we’re grateful to be able to reward them for their great service. I know that they are all anxious during this time and we just ask that you lift them up in your prayers tonight.

Easter Service

Chaplain Tyler has prepared an Easter Service for our team, residents and family members. A message of HOPE is just what we need at this time in our lives. Please follow us on Facebook to view the video that will air on Sunday morning.

Please keep us in our prayers. We know you are as we are celebrating the Heroes at Work program win for our hardworking team members today. Thank you for all your support and encouragement.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 8th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus.

Thank you for all the love, prayers and support. We have needed it all! WKYT was on campus today to talk to us about new guidance that came out overnight and also about our ability to stay COVID-19 free on a campus so large.

We continue to have to make difficult decisions for the welfare of our residents and staff as the cases of coronavirus  in the state of Kentucky are on the rise. While the decisions we had to make about further healthy at home measures won’t be popular around the Easter holiday, they will be evaluated after two weeks. We are doing our part and listening to the Governor’s advice.

14-day “Healthy at Home Challenge”

The next 2 weeks will be absolutely critical to slow the spread of the coronavirus and we are notifying all residents that if they leave the campus for any reason that is not medically necessary, that they will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon their return OR they won’t be permitted to return until the visitor restrictions are lifted.  This aggressive measure, while inconvenient will primarily affect the residents who live at Friendship Towers, Baunta Apartments and Forest View Apartments.  This measure is based on guidance from our regulatory agencies and is specific guidance for congregate living settings, such as ours.

Additionally, we have made the decision to suspend window visits for family members for the next 14 days.  Governor Beshear is asking all Kentuckians to stay “healthy at home” and have strict compliance with his recommendations which include NOT leaving home unless you have to go to work, get groceries or seek medical care.  Unfortunately, window visits for families/residents aren’t included in this list and we are asking our families members to make difficult sacrifices as well to help prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.  Chaplain Tyler will be increasing the amount of virtual visits for our residents and families as a way to fill the gap.

The 14-day challenge will be difficult because of cabin fever, the beautiful weather and Easter season but this challenge is absolutely necessary to save lives.

All admissions to Sayre Healthcare Center will be placed in isolation in our palliative suites for 7 days and will be re-evaluated after 7 days.  We are using the same set of staff to work in palliative for anyone that is on isolation precautions and the appropriate PPE will be used.

We continue to fight daily for our campus. I could ask for no better folks to go to battle with than our current staff and our supportive families. Thank you for all you do to help encourage us.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 7th, 2020) We currently do not have any confirmed or positive COVID-19 cases on our campus – and that is a blessing, an answer to prayers but most importantly a result of the hard work we are doing on our campus!  I am SO proud of our teams’ efforts and our commitment to maintain a safe and healthy campus!

Governor Beshear has reported the following information for nursing homes in Kentucky (as of 5:30pm on 04/07/20):

  • 55 residents in 21 long-term care facilities are confirmed positive
  • 22 staff members have tested positive
  • 11 resident deaths

We are ready to react quickly and swiftly in the event that we do have a positive case in the future. Below is some new information/updates and additional measures we are taking:

Meals for Staff

I appreciate the efforts of our dietary/dining services staff.  They are not only feeding 375 residents every day, sometimes 2 and 3 times per day, but have now been tasked with feeding staff every day/every shift.  I’d like to give our dietary/dining services staff a break so moving forward – Thursdays and every other Saturday, we will be catering a take-out meal from one of our local businesses.  I’m requesting that any employee who has an office, to eat meals in their office, rather than congregating with other staff.

Friendship Towers Construction

The construction project to expand Friendship Towers is still underway.  As a matter of caution, we are requiring that The Hayden Company (our construction company) conduct health screenings on their employees and contractors as well.  Right now, our targeted completion date for this expansion is late summer.

Congregate Activities

Because our population is the most vulnerable and we are in a congregate living setting, all congregate activities must be suspended.  This includes any gathering of 2 or more residents – visits on the porch, outside, etc.  Our activities department has done a fantastic job and have pivoted quickly every single time we have made a change.  They are already on top of this initiative and are working hard to be creative with activities.

Going Green

On Monday, April 13th we will be lighting up our campus in green at night to reflect our sorrow of the lives lost to the COVID-19 fight.  The light will remind us of our commitment to push on and keep fighting for Kentuckians.  The color green is a symbol for compassion and we want to do our part to show our community that we care.

COVID-19 Fundraiser

If you are interested in purchasing the “COVID-19 Hair, Don’t Care” hats, the “To care for those who once cared for us is the highest honor” t-shirts or the hand painted “Team Kentucky” Barrel staves, please contact .  Each can be purchased for just $25 and ALL proceeds to our COVID-19 fundraiser to help us continue our fight against the Coronavirus.

Keep up the great work everyone!  If everyone does their part, we will certainly come out stronger on the other side.  We will get through this and we will get through it together.  Remember that when times are tough and sometimes dark, love still gets in.  #LoveStillGetsIn

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 6th, 2020) As of 2 pm on Monday, we do not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 and continue to take aggressive measures to prevent the coronvirus on campus. 

We start the week off with SUNSHINE and we’re loving it. We have gorgeous courtyards here at the Healthcare Center and 27 acres total of beautiful grounds for the residents and staff to enjoy.

We continue to shift our internal processes to be even more aggressive as the positive cases in Kentucky increase.

  • Employee Health Screening – We will also be revising the screening form to add a question “Do you work in other place that has confirmed COVID-19?”
  • Changes to Admission Process – going forward, all admissions will go to Palliative Suites first for 7 days and either come to our facility with a negative COVID test already or be tested on admission before being placed in general population
  • Staff meals – kitchen will continue to provide bagged lunches for staff. We are so thankful for the extra work they have taken on gracefully!
  • Breaks/Lunches – I will be asking all employees who have an office to eat their meals in their offices even if the option to eat in a group/social distance is available.
  • Friendship Towers Expansion –  We are requiring Hayden Company employees, contractors and subcontractors to have a health screening every day before going to work and also requiring they wear masks since most of the work is inside/under roof at this time. Their employees do not come into our existing buildings or share areas with residents.

Amazon Wish List

So many of you have reached out to ask how you can help. We are extremely grateful for community support at this time and thank you for reaching out. Donations for our COVID-19 Relief Fund are so appreciated. Our mission of hope, housing & healthcare is contingent on supporters like yourself.

In addition, we have created an Amazon Activities & Spiritual Wish List that has many different ways to help our activities and spiritual programming make an impact with residents across campus.

You can turn a resident’s day around with a gift from our Amazon Activities & Spiritual Wish List.

We continue to be so grateful for not only our amazing Healthcare & Housing Heroes, but also to our resilient residents and fierce families. We’re all in this together.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 3, 2020) As of 3 pm on Friday, we do not have any confirmed cases of COVID-19 and continue take aggressive measures to prevent the coronavirus on campus. 

We had already put many of the stronger recommendations from the CDC and CMS into place before they were announced last night.

  • We continue to comply with all CMS and CDC guidance related to infection control.
  • We had already implemented symptom screening for all staff/residents – including temperature checks early in March.
  • We are using appropriate PPE when our team is are interacting with patients and residents, to the extent PPE is available and per CDC guidance on conservation of PPE.
  • To avoid transmission within a skilled nursing facility, we are using separate staffing teams for residents to the best of our ability. We have designated a separate unit to separate COVID-19 negative residents from COVID-19 positive residents and individuals with unknown COVID-19 status. We have already identified that our Palliative Suites wing will be used for COVID-19 positive or pending residents, while they wait for transfer to a higher level of care.
  • We have also asked our team NOT to travel outside the state, as they would have to comply with a 14 day quarantine upon re-entry.

Admission/Readmission Policy

Policy

It is our goal to to maintain  and protect the health and well-being of our staff, residents and our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose

Our plan for admission/readmission to the healthcare facility

  1. Residents will be screened through our referral process to determine their healthcare status
  2. Approval for admissions will be determined by the Administration staff (Administrator, Director of Nursing or Assistant Director of Nursing)
  3. Admission to facility resident will be screened for any respiratory symptoms (fever, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, red eyes etc.)
  4. Resident will be placed in Private room and be placed in contact isolation for at least 7 days. ( If resident continues to develop no respiratory  symptoms then the resident will be discontinued from contact precautions)
  5. (UPDATE) All admissions will go to palliative suites first for 7 days and either come with a negative COVID test or be tested on admission before being placed in general population.

Presumed positive COVID-19

If a resident shows any signs/symptoms that they may have COVID-19 such as (fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath etc.) the resident will be placed in contact isolation, the MD/ARNP will be notified for further direction. Staff will follow Center for Diisease and Control and Kentucky Department of Healthcare guidelines.

Message to Our Campus Residents

I want to leave with you a message that Chaplain Tyler recorded for our residents across campus. He has not had interaction, except from afar, with housing residents to keep movement between buildings to a minimum for the safety of all. He wanted to share that we’re not stuck at home, but safe at home. They will enjoy seeing his face for sure!

We can do big things…we can do hard things…but we can’t do anything without God’s help and our TEAM.

We are so fortunate to have a great team protecting our residents, doing extra tasks, cross-training on new duties, and ensuring that we continue our mission of Godly-care to older adults in the Bluegrass.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(April 1, 2020) March was…LONG.

Thank YOU for helping us get through it. We put together some clips from the last 31 days to celebrate. It seems strange to look back & see folks sitting together or standing close without masks, doesn’t it?

“We’re going to get through this together.” We are asking our COVID-19 Relief https://bit.ly/33lGPXP Donations over $25 get their choice of hat or t-shirt, while supplies last!


(March 31, 2020) Last night, Governor Andy Beshear issued an executive order limiting out of state travel for Kentucky residents.  We are asking that all staff limit out-of-state travel at this time.  In fact, I have asked my team to be in one of two places over the coming weeks – here or at home.

Out of State Travel & Window Visits

We are trying to be extra cautious, especially since now tonight the Governor has said he is deliberating whether to institute a 14 day quarantine for anyone crossing into Kentucky.  We will continue to review our guidance daily, sometimes two to three times a day. At this time, we ask you not to cross state lines to do a window visit.

We understand the hardship this visitor restriction is on everyone and appreciate the abundance of caution, concern, patience…AND LOVE for our team that we have seen these past weeks from family members. ‘We will get through this together.’

Thank you for doing your part!  “With faith the size of a mustard seed, nothing is impossible.” Matthew 17:20

God’s Best,

Karen L. Venis

(March 30, 2020) I like to start off with thanking our employees again. Thank you for doing your part to keep yourselves and our residents healthy and safe – we do not currently have any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 on our campus.

We have taken aggressive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and will continue to act in an abundance of caution to protect you and our residents.  Below are the new measures we are announcing to mitigate our risk – some are new steps and some are current practices we are revising and/or tightening up.

Infection Prevention Strategies

We have been blessed with donations of hand-sewn masks and will offer them as an option to employees.  Beginning Tuesday March 31st, employees at SHC can pick up a clean cloth mask at the front desk when you have your temperature taken. We will wash & sanitize them here at the facility. They will NOT take them home.  Of course, we will also provide the option for the disposable masks as well – we are simply trying to ensure we maintain an adequate supply of PPE on our campus.  All employees are still required to wear a mask at all times while at work until further notice.  Of course, it’s always good to remember that the best thing you can do to prevent the spread of the coronavirus is to WASH YOUR HANDS. All employees are asked to wash their hands after their health screening at the beginning of each shift and every single chance they get afterwards, certainly before and after providing care to our residents.

One-Call Notification System

We have created a One-Call Notification system for emergency situations.  Our intent is to utilize this system for campus wide notifications that are time-sensitive.  We will be using the numbers we have on file currently for this new system. If you need to update your contact information, please send your name and phone number (indicate if cell or landline) to Alice Greene if your loved one is at the Sayre Healthcare Center, Angela Goodlett at Friendship Towers and LeeAnn Peach at Forest View and Baunta Apartments so that we might update our records.

Social Distancing

Please ensure that you are practicing social distancing in as many settings as we can – please do your part to protect yourself, your family and residents.  President Trump has extended social distancing guidelines until April 30th to slow the spread of the coronavirus. We will continue to adhere to those guidelines on our campus.

Virtual and Window VisitsVirtual Hugs

At this time, we are still providing virtual and window visits for residents at SHC and Friendship Towers.  However, the window visits cannot occur at the resident’s room window due to HIPPA reasons. Many residents live with a roommate.  Additionally, if the windows are open, germs can be spread to individuals visiting together. We can provide a secure location and scheduled time for you to meet with your loved one safely.  Please direct family members to contact Tyler Greene at  or at 404-358-6931 to schedule a window visit.

We encourage you to shift toward Virtual Visits as the Governor is really making a push to stay #healthyathome.

Healthy at Home Initiative

We all have an obligation to do our part and one of the best ways you can help is to minimize your contact with the general public. We are asking our staff to please stay at home when not working at Sayre. Encourage your friends and family to stay at home as well. The next couple of weeks will be critical and we have to do our part to slow the spread. My car has been 2 places in the past 4 weeks – my home and my work. While this is tough because my kids are used to being on the go plus the warmer temperatures, it is absolutely necessary. Please encourage your family, your kids, your friends to do their part to keep you and our residents healthy.

Resource Guide

We have distributed a resource guide to our housing residents with some helpful tips, including how to order groceries for delivery. At any time, should a resident need help with the ordering process or if in fact, they can’t get deliveries, we will be there every step of the way. Just reach out to our team.

We Are Hiring

Can you help us spread the word?  If you are on Facebook, “like” and “share” our content!  Here is the link to our latest ad that you can share with your social network.  We will begin holding virtual orientations for our new hires, again to mitigate the risk of exposure.

The Greater the Storm…

The greater the storm, the brighter the rainbow.  Help us shine bright this week by wearing the following from Monday, 03/30 through Sunday, 04/05:

  • Monday – Red
  • Tuesday – Orange
  • Wednesday – Yellow
  • Thursday – Green
  • Friday – Royal Blue
  • Saturday – Navy
  • Sunday – Purple

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13

God’s Best,

Karen L. Venis

(March 26, 2020) We are feeling the good, sunny weather shine down on us and it has lifted our spirits. It has been a BUSY couple days on our campus celebrating our residents in different ways and we are feeling the love from our community.

First, we want to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Geraldine Hill! Geraldine turned 105 today and celebrated with a window visit with her daughter Pam…and several thousand of her friends! Special thank you to Mayor Gordon for making March 26, 2020 Geraldine Hill Day in Lexington, KY. Geraldine was asking for LIKES on her picture on Facebook and currently has over 10,000 (and counting) on the original post. You can watch the full story on this WKYT news story.

Scheduling Window Visits

We understand it is hard to not be able to see and visit with your loved ones.  We do encourage virtual visits as well as window visits.  However, the window visits cannot occur at the resident’s room window due to HIPPA reasons. Many residents live with a roommate.

Additionally, if the windows are open, germs can be spread to individuals visiting together. We can provide a secure location and scheduled time for you to meet with your loved one safely.  If you would like to schedule a window visit, please contact Tyler Greene at or at 404-358-6931.  We appreciate your understanding and patience during this very stressful time for everyone.  We thank you for trusting us with your loved ones and will continue to do everything possible to keep them all safe.

Gratefully,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 25, 2020) Thank you for continuing to doing your part to keep yourselves and your loved ones healthy and safe – I appreciate the sacrifices all are making every day as we do our best to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus.

Social Distancing

The current guidance for our community is that we limit gatherings to groups of less than 10 people AND that we practice social distancing in as many settings as we can.  Please know that social distancing applies to all of our break rooms, meeting spaces and our screening stations for employees, as well as residents.  We have placed bright orange tape at our screening stations as a physical cue for the 6 foot distance requirement.  Please also remember that social distancing is not social isolation, we are simply as a society having to change the way we interact with others. Our activities departments, social services teams, clinical team, chaplain and other staff are working hard to create new activities for our residents that keep them safe and entertained.

Infection Prevention Strategies

As a precaution, all employees on campus will be required to wear a facemask while at work until further notice.  Facemasks will be available at each of our screening stations for employees to pick up at the beginning of each shift/day.  Masks will be disposed of at the end of the day. Like many other healthcare facilities, our quantity is limited so we are asking that employees use one facemask/day unless directed otherwise by a care plan or Donna Maynard, Director of Nursing Services.  We have several supporters in our community that are busy making hand-sewn masks and will update our communication/procedures when we have an adequate supply for staff to use.  The masks are required to be worn at anytime we are interacting with a resident or a co-worker.

Your Mental Health

Today, we enjoyed the sunshine and also some good social distancing…while letting the love still get in.

This is certainly a vulnerable time for all of us and I appreciate every one of team members that risk their health every single day when they come to work.  Please know that we are looking to turn over every stone to ensure we take every single precaution to protect your health and our residents’ health, too.  Everyone, please take time from your day to pray, get some exercise, get some fresh air, laugh with friends and family – we all still need those moments.  Keep your kids and you on a schedule, be intentional when you get home and use technology to connect with your loved ones.  Be present and give your phone screen a break!  Feel free to lean on Tyler Greene, our Chaplain if you are looking for spiritual guidance or simply need someone to talk to.  Ask questions and keep on doing your part so we can get through this.

Philippians 4:13 says “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength”.  This is my go-to verse right now and of course, the daily dose of Gov. Beshear briefings with a reminder “that together, we will get through this.”

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 24, 2020) We are so proud of our residents…they continue to take this crisis in stride. For example, several at Friendship Towers have been involved in ‘Tech Corner’ activities to learn new skills like how to order grocery delivery and also how to do virtual visits themselves via FaceTime, etc. Several have donated to our COVID-19 Relief Facebook fundraiser and all are keeping each other in good spirits. They are making sure our team knows that the staff is appreciated. We are honored to care for these residents that we consider family.

Dropping off Supplies or DonationsDonate Masks

We are putting some new steps in place when we receive donations, such as handmade masks, PPE and boxes, etc. If you are delivering a package, you’ll be asked to leave the package. After you drive off, we will then step outside to retrieve the package with gloves and mask on. We will follow CDC guidelines to ensure proper safety measures. Handmade masks will be washed on a sanitize mode before used.

We do love that we have had offers for home-baked goods. Unfortunately at this time, we can not accept anything except food from a commercial kitchen.

We are so grateful for monetary & in-kind donations for things like:

  • Tablets
  • Adult coloring books
  • Colored pencils
  • Bingo prizes
  • Handmade Face Masks
  • PPE (N95 masks, disposable masks, gloves, gowns)
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Tissues

Please contact Elise at for in-kind donations.

Keeping Our Staff & Residents Safe

Do not be alarmed if you see our team in masks. We are doing our part to keep residents safe and since we are coming and going, we feel it’s important to wear masks. There is no need for residents to wear masks at this time, as they have not (for the most part), been anywhere for the past 14 days. We will wear disposable masks until a time when we have enough handmade masks to wear. At that time, we’ll transition to the handmade masks and reserve disposable masks for when there is a need. When we begin wearing the cloth masks, we will drop them in a bin each night to be sanitized nightly by our laundry team and pick up fresh in the morning.

Communication

Don’t forget, we can help you set up a virtual visit or a window visit. Our residents love to see your faces!

Unit 1 & 2 – Cindy Adwell
Unit 3 & 4 – Sarah Davis
Housing – Marcia Martin

As you know, transparency continues to be very important to me. We want to make sure that we’re able to communicate with you at all times. Do we have the best number on hand for you? If you are a POA or family member contact and your information has changed, email or phone, please contact Alice Greene if your loved one is at the Sayre Healthcare Center, Angela Goodlett at Friendship Towers and LeeAnn Peach at Forest View and Baunta Apartments so that we might update our records.

God’s Best,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 23, 2020) As we start another week under our COVID-19 response plan, I’m thankful for the outpouring of prayers and support from our staff, residents, family members and our wonderful community!  I think of how many individuals in our community who are facing sudden job loss and the unknown of our future and I’m SO thankful that while what we do is hard, I praise the Lord that I still have a job.  I couldn’t imagine the thought of having the burden of worrying about not having a job and my financial future among all of the other things our society is worried about today, and our hearts go out to our local community.

We don’t have any positive cases of COVID-19 on our campus and we are battling hard to keep it that way.

Staff Stays On Campus

Last week, we asked our employees stay on campus during the entire course of their shift.  Of course, we want you to sleep in your own bed, but we do ask that when you come to work, you stay at work for the duration of your shift.  The goal is to minimize our interaction with the general public as much as possible.  We will be providing meals for our staff while they are working. We have been blessed by a few supporters that have stepped up and catered a meal for our team on a couple days. We appreciate you! I love our community.

Keeping our Staff & Residents Safe

We have increased our screening process for end of life visitors, for vendors who deliver essential medical services/supplies as well service providers.  They are required to wear PPE anytime they are in our buildings as well as provide us with the COVID-19 plan they are following.

We are also screening all employees to determine other places of employment, specifically those who have secondary jobs in healthcare.

COVID-19 Fundraiser

We are continuing our efforts to raise money to offset the unexpected expenses we are incurring for additional cleaning supplies, PPE and the Employee Stimulus Pay plan to name a few.  Please use your voice for good and share with your community and friends when they ask “how can I help”

We need prayers and we need donations!

In Closing

I appreciate the work that our employees are doing, working as hard as they can, being as vigilant as they can.  We are all in this together and we ARE going to make it through this!

Please be a prayer warrior – pray for each other, our residents, our government leaders and our community.

Blessings to each of you,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 19, 2020) We’ve almost made it through the week and the sun is trying to shine today. I’m encouraged that warmer weather IS coming and residents will be able to take strolls around the grounds again soon. This beautiful 27 acre campus truly is stunning in the spring when everything turns green and begins to bloom.

Off Campus

The newest daily ‘pivot’ is the change to how our residents come and go from buildings. The recommendation has come through that Long Term Care, including Assisted Living Facilities and Congregate Independent Living will no longer be allowed to leave facilities for things like shopping trips, banking, lunch off-site, etc.

As we work to adhere to their guidelines, please let us know if you need our help coordinating groceries, supplies and of course, virtual visits. We will work together to make it happen. Of course, residents will still be able to walk around outside, as long as social distancing remains in place. The guidance is to protect them further from COVID-19.

Outpatient Therapy

Outpatient Therapy at Sayre Christian Village will be halted for 14 days. Aegis has communicated with patients to ensure they can be making the most of their time while not making on-site visits. Residents that have therapeutic needs will still receive those, as they are considered essential.

Personal Protection Equipment Delivery

We know that many of you have been following the news and know of the shortage of personal protection equipment (PPE) in this country. We are excited to hear that a shipment has come in today and the Health Department is coordinating a delivery as we speak of more masks, gloves, etc. Praise God!

Keeping our Staff & Residents Safe

Our Medical Director, Dr. Richard, can now order a COVID-19 test for anyone that suspects they have been exposed to the coronavirus. That test will be returned within 24 hours, and if negative, the team member will be allowed to work again.  Again, we are grateful for things like availability to tests, especially fast ones.

Healthcare is Essential and Not Exempt

Because we are a healthcare campus, our entire staff is considered essential to the healthcare mission. We are truly one campus, one mission in that respect. We are reviewing our plans and protocols for employee safety as our team members are the heart of Sayre Christian Village. Thank you to community members for stepping up to show your support of their hard work. Even as we speak, we have organizations, businesses and supporters signing up to have morale lifting lunches delivered to our warriors and donations of everything from adult coloring books to Chromebooks for virtual visits. I love our community.

In fact, just yesterday, former MLB player, host of Kentucky Life – KET, and local hometown hero, Doug Flynn met with me to talk about his ‘window visit’ with his father and to lend his voice in support of the mission of our healthcare heroes protecting our Greatest Generation.

Please consider donating to our the Sayre Christian Village COVID-19 Relief fund while I’m matching donations up to $2500! Our residents and team are so worth it.

With gratitude,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 17, 2020) Here’s a little something to brighten your St. Patrick’s Day. 

While this COVID-19 state visitor restriction is in place, we’re searching for the good. Today, we found our little ‘pot of gold’ at the end of the rainbow. Our resident and her family let us film their ‘visitor victory’ to help us shine a light on the good. Love still gets in. There is victory in the end.

At Sayre Christian Village, we know how lucky we are to witness love between family members daily, but we feel even luckier during this crisis. We get to help reconnect some family members. Family members from across the country that might never have thought to FaceTime ‘Aunt Louise’ (because they didn’t think she’d be able to do it or know what it was, etc) are getting the chance to now as the visitor restriction has made ‘virtual visits’ commonplace.

Our residents at Friendship Towers Assisted & Independent Living participated in a tech class yesterday where they learned how to video chat on their own and also learned some general information about their smart phones. (To be honest, I should have sat in on that class!)

I hope you’re finding the ‘pot of gold’ at the end of a rainbow today too. We can help to set up a ‘visitor victory’ window chat or a ‘virtual visit’ by video chat. Please read through our information below to ways to connect with your loved one.

We know you are going through uncharted territory, just like us. Please know that you are in our hearts, minds and prayers. We are battling this COVID-19 crisis with you and rejoice with you too when there are small victories like the one in the video above.

#V4VisitorVictory #LoveStillGetsIn

With gratitude,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 16, 2020) We continue to pivot after the announcements from the President over the weekend and also Governor Beshear today.

As you may know, Governor Andy Beshear announced this morning that all restaurants and bars in Kentucky will close and only be permitted to provide delivery or carry-out options for food service.  He also continues to issue recommendation that we all practice social distancing, regardless if we are in the “at risk” category or not.  Social distancing means 6 feet between you and your neighbor.  Additionally, CMS issued guidance late Friday evening that community gatherings in senior living settings have to be suspended until further notice.

Here is our plan (for now):

Good Neighbor

We Can Help With Temporary Job Loss

Unfortunately, there are SO many individuals in our community who are without a job/income suddenly as a result of the coronavirus.  The Governor has asked us all to be good neighbors. We are hiring for temporary AND permanent positions.  We need help and we have people in our community who need to work.  We will be creative with interviews by using Facetime, Skype, off-site interviews, etc.  Please help us the word that we can use the extra hands, even if it is only temporarily, until they can return to their regular jobs.

Meal Services

Dining services at Baunta Café and Friendship Towers will be suspended until further notice.  We will follow Gov. Beshear’s directive and provide only carry-out or delivery services.  We will be utilizing our dining services staff to help us rather than cutting their hours.

Sayre Healthcare Center has modified meal service so that residents are dining in their rooms and not in the café/dining room.  Meal service at the healthcare center will not be held in the main dining room or the café until further notice.  Residents on Unit 1 and Unit 2 will have meals provided to them in their rooms.  Residents on Unit 3 and Unit 4 will still utilize their dining areas but with social distancing practices in place.  This creates a hardship for our nursing staff and we will be assigning non-nursing employees to assist with our meal services

Beauty Shop

Our Beauty Shops at Baunta, Forest View and Sayre Healthcare Center will be closed until further notice.  We are working on some creative alternatives for our residents.  Perhaps we get hats that say “COVID-19 hair, don’t care”!

Social Gatherings

We are going to follow CMS guidelines relative to social gatherings and all communal gatherings on our campus will be canceled until further notice.  Our awesome activities team is working on individual activities for our residents and we will call on other employees to help us make these happen.

Visitor Restrictions

We have received additional guidance related to visitors and are reviewing that guidance to ensure we are in compliance.  We are no longer permitted to have private sitters or any non-medical visitors, unless a resident is receiving end-of-life care.  We are identifying any staff that work for other facilities and agencies.  Essentially, the goal is that health care workers (mostly our PRN staff) aren’t working all over town – of course, minimize the risk of exposure is the common goal here.

Social Media

We have created a fundraiser to offset the expenses for the stimulus pay, extra supplies, etc and have raised over $10,000 (via Facebook & online donations) since FRIDAY!  That is fantastic news and we need to keep our momentum strong!  Use your voice and help spread the word that we need prayers and donations now more than ever!

Support Small Business

While this is hard work, I’m thankful to have a job right now and couldn’t imagine the financial stress so many of our neighbors, small businesses, etc are under!  Help your neighbor by picking up carry-out for lunch or dinner!  That is my plan because the last thing I can think about right now is cooking!

With gratitude,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 14, 2020) Please read a message from our CEO, Karen Venis to family, friends, caregivers and supporters.

We are in this together

 

 

 

 

(March 13, 2020) “To care for those that once cared for us is the highest honor.” 

Governor Beshear recommended school closures for the next two weeks, and we will take more direction from his leadership. The visitor restriction will remain in place until March 29th and be re-evaluated. I’d like to commend our staff and you for keeping things as ‘normal as possible’ for residents by remaining light-hearted and upbeat with them. We’d like their day to run as normally as possible for them, which means stepping up ways for you to communicate.

Virtual Visit Update

Yesterday, we held a meeting with leadership, activities, social services and other key positions to be strategic in how we can expand ‘virtual visits’ even further. We set up permanent stations in the Sayre Healthcare Center as Virtual Visit Kiosks for video calls during activities. We also made the decision to purchase more tablets so that we may take the larger screens directly to resident rooms and over to the housing side at Baunta, Forest View and Friendship Towers apartments. We strategized more ways to communicate, opening it up to Google Duo, IN2L, FaceTime, Facebook Messenger Chat, Marco Polo and recorded videos.

We also plan to give you a ‘peek’ at life LIVE at Sayre Christian Village more frequently, so please check in on the Facebook page. You might see your loved one giving you a shout out!

Social Distancing

We do not plan to slow any spiritual services, in fact, we’re adding more in. We’re adding more prayer groups, like praying in color, a unique platform where residents color with colored pencils in adult coloring books. When they feel the need to pray for something, they just ask out loud, “Can you please pray for my Grandson, Tommy? He’s going through a rough patch.” Another resident then repeats the prayer request as they continue coloring. It is very therapeutic, calming and prayer works!

While we’re also not canceling Bible Studies and Church Services, we ARE changing the format. We are going to be moving from the smaller chapel to larger open spaces, like the Life Enrichment Center. Chairs will have to be spread much farther apart. In fact, all group activities at the Healthcare Center will be in larger areas like the large dining room or the Life Enrichment Center instead of dayrooms, etc, so that social distancing can be followed. All activities across campus where more than a couple are gathering will be asked to spread out and observe social distancing.

In addition, no outside volunteers or external church staff will be allowed in due to the visitor restriction, so Chaplain Tyler will be leading all services. Because Chaplain Tyler is full-time, he is already here daily and does not pose an additional risk to our residents.

How Can You Help?Highest Honor

We are asking for donations. Your donations can have a direct impact TODAY as we navigate these new issues daily. Your donations will help us offset the cost of paying our team members more/hour as a COVID-19 Employee Stimulus Plan during this crisis. They are all critical workers, healthcare or not, that are working to give your loved one the best care. We recognize the hardship on them as they are quickly searching for childcare.

In addition to increased stimulus pay for staff, donations would also go to directly to: 

  • Bleach
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Masks
  • Clorox Wipes
  • 5 Additional Tablets for Virtual Visits
  • Roku Stick for programming like travel shows, particular movies, etc that will help the Activities Teams with activities as they are without volunteers and performers. (TV is NEVER used as just blank screentime. It would be used as an additional tool in an engaged activity that is building off what is shown on the program or app.)

Please remember us during this COVID-19 visitor restriction and consider a donation. If you know a business or organization that can help with an in-kind or matching donation, please reach out to Elise Hinchman at . Continue to keep us in your prayers as we need wisdom for all the changes that are unveiled daily.

With gratitude,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 12, 2020) Thank you for the prayers for our Sayre Christian Village residents and team. “I sought the Lord and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” PSALM 34:4

According to Governor Beshear’s recommendations, we are canceling events farther into this month that involve the public, families or performances. Events like the Remembrance Event, one of the special events that we hold for families three times a year to honor loved ones that have passed at SCV, will be rescheduled at a later date.

Virtual VisitsVirtual Visits

Residents have already started ‘virtual visits’ with family and friends via Skype, FaceTime or Google Duo. We would love to facilitate a ‘visit’ with your loved one as well. Please reach out to the corresponding Activities Team so that they might schedule a time. While we pivot and get more iPads, laptops, etc set up for these reasons, it might be a bit before the Activities Teams respond to your initial email because without volunteers and scheduled performers, they are absorbing more so that the residents don’t feel like there is less to do.

We’ll have more on this to come soon as we work to streamline this. The ‘visits’ mean a lot to the residents, just as recorded videos that are emailed to our team do too. Remember, videos can be shown over and over. You know we like to watch our own favorite clips of family videos on our phones on repeat;  they will enjoy seeing yours as well.

Unit 1 & 2 – Cindy Adwell
Unit 3 & 4 – Sarah Davis
Housing – Marcia Martin

Feeling Like Your Hands Are Tied?

If you’re asking what you can do, please consider helping this nonprofit with our Mission to provide Hope, Housing and Healthcare. We are stepping up our cleaning all over our 27 acre campus and we are asking for donations to help us purchase more:

  • Bleach
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Masks
  • Clorox Wipes

Prayers

Keep us all in your prayers. We have an amazing team that is made up of Mothers, Daughters, Fathers and Sons that have lives outside these brick walls and families that depend on them, just as you are also depending on them. They are vital to Sayre Christian Village and they are your connection to your loved one. They are our Healthcare & Housing Heroes! They continue to provide excellent care for the residents even while they may have some anxiety about the news events as they unfold. They have been pivoting quickly all week and we are so proud of them.

eCardsDorothy

Please consider sending your loved one AND a staff member an eCard. These are delivered within 24 hours and cost you nothing! They sure do brighten everyone’s day.

With gratitude,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 11, 2020) – As Governor Andy Beshear said this morning, some of the new COVID-19 recommendations feel aggressive and he said that is intentional. He is said he is very aggressively trying to slow the spread of the virus in Kentucky to give time to private labs and scientists time to work toward bringing additional resources online and to develop potential vaccines.

We agree with the Governor, that while disruptions are an annoyance, it is important to take every step to protect the most vulnerable. It is “his job (and also ours at Sayre Christian Village) to protect the health and life” of the elderly, the Governor stated.

We want to personally say thank you for the way families and residents alike have responded to these short-term visitor restrictions. We want to congratulate our team on their level-headed and calm response to this novel virus. They have pivoted quickly daily to new recommendations from the CDC, state health department, Governor, state associations and our medical director.

Governor Beshear clarified a question during his press conference about Assisted Living facilities. While they technically fall under different guidelines, he is still strongly recommending that the same guidelines for visitor restriction be followed out an abundance of caution. Of course, we are hoping that the visitor restriction is short-lived and that normalcy returns to the state soon.  We will continue to update as we know more! Thank you for your continued prayers for our campus, as our Mission remains the same regardless of the Coronavirus, to provide hope, housing and healthcare for seniors in the Bluegrass.

With gratitude,

Karen Venis, CEO

(March 10, 2020) – “We are all in this together,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. 

Governor Beshear announced today that Kentucky Long Term Care facilities and Assisted Living Facilities should restrict all visitors and volunteers except the loved ones of patients receiving end-of-life care in an effort to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus.

Beshear described the step as “strong guidance” for nursing homes, assisted living facilities and long-term care facilities, but made clear further action would be taken if it is not followed.

The restrictions on visitation are mandatory for State Operated LTC Facilities.

The state posted specifics on its COVID-19 website Tuesday that said long-term care facilities should screen staff for symptoms of respiratory infection, international travel to restricted countries and exposure to someone with COVID-19.

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health pursuant to authority granted in KRS 214.020 and Executive Order 2020-215 hereby issues this supplemental guidance by recommending that long-term care facilities limit visitation only to those loved ones that are receiving end-of-life care.

Beshear said he hopes people understand that the visitation restriction is necessary to protect those most likely to have life-threatening complications from the disease.

Sayre Christian Village is happy to facilitate phone calls, FaceTime and Skype ‘visits’ and will work out times with families if they request it. Please reach out to our social workers or activities teams to get a time set up for a ‘video visit.’

Sayre Covid-19 Information LineCovid 19 Info
Please continue to leave messages on the Sayre Covid-19 Information Line and those will be returned promptly.

We will continue to monitor the situation daily, sometimes several times a day, depending on the information that we’re receiving.  Thank you for your patience as we navigate through unknown territory.

With gratitude,

Karen L. Venis, CEO

(March 9, 2020) – Christian Village is aware of the concerns about the COVID-19 coronavirus and as always, the health and welfare of our residents is our greatest priority. Our team members are working diligently to monitor, educate and prevent the COVID-19 illness in our community. While the risk remains low and there is no need to panic, we want to ensure we are doing our part by taking measures to reduce the risk in our community.

Currently, we don’t have any cases of COVID-19 on our campus. As a matter of precaution and prevention, we are following our infection control and emergency preparedness policies and are continuously monitoring our practices to ensure they follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations and guidelines.

As a precaution and preventative measure against the spread of infection, we have made the decision to restrict visitors from Sayre Healthcare Center, Friendship Towers Assisted Living facility, Baunta and Forest View Apartments until further notice. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience, but please know that our primary objective is to protect the health of our residents, many of whom are already medically compromised and are at great risk for infection.

In addition to following the recommendations of the CDC on prevention steps, Sayre Christian Village is also following recommendations from the Office of the Governor, the Office of the Inspector General, the Kentucky Department of Public Health and the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department. We are also in constant communication with our medical director to ensure we have the latest information on the prevention of COVID-19 in our community.

PREVENTION & EDUCATION

  • We are in constant review of our infection control policies and procedures and are providing ongoing education to our staff and our residents to reinforce healthy and safe standards of care.
  • We have increased housekeeping services on our campus.
  • We are rescheduling all external routine resident appointments to limit exposure.
  • Scheduled trips and performances on campus are cancelled this week and we will assess day-to-day going forward.
  • We currently are NOT restricting new admissions/move-ins for new residents, however will conduct appropriate screenings prior to admission on our campus. While we will take new move-ins and admits, they will have to be screened first.
  • We will not be providing tours of our campus to the public until further notice.
  • Staff members are being educated and screened. In the event and employee has a fever, cough, or other signs of respiratory illness, we are asking them to report it to their supervisor and NOT report to work.
  • Employees will not be moving between buildings across campus and administration staff will not be interacting with residents or be in resident areas to limit exposure.

COMMUNICATIONCovid 19 Info

I am committed to transparency and swift communication regarding the spread and prevention of COVID-19 in our community and as such, we will be updating the public and families daily through several methods:

  • Daily COVID-19/Coronavirus Update Information Line – Sayre Christian Village has set up a dedicated information phone line that will be updated after 10 AM daily with any new information that has changed. If you have a concern or question, you may leave a message and your call will be returned within 24 hours. The direct number is (859) 899-0831 or you may dial our main number and you will be prompted for the hotline: (859) 271 – 9000, dial 9. Messages that are left will be returned within 24 hours.
  • Website News Tab – Please continue to check our website for daily updates for changes in protocols or recommendations.
  • Social Media – As information changes, we will update the Sayre Christian Village Facebook page.
  • Facetime/Skype – We understand that connecting with loved ones is incredibly important, and there are a variety of other ways you might consider connecting with them than visiting in person. These may include telephone, email, text, or through Skype or Facetime. Let us know how we can help facilitate communication.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING COVID-19

Thank you for your continued support and prayers for our community, residents and staff.

With gratitude,

Karen L. Venis, CEO

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Sayre Christian Village is the only faith-based nonprofit continuing care retirement community in Fayette County. We provide independent living, assisted living, transitional short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing services, and dementia care to more than 375 older adults. The organization operates on a beautiful 27-acre campus in Southeast Lexington and has served the needs of older adults since 1983. Sayre Christian Village just completed their annual state health inspection, performed by the Office of the Inspector General February 4 – 6th, and are proud to announce that they received no deficiencies in nursing services or infection control. CMS has ranked them a four-star facility.

Media Contact:

Elise Hinchman
VP Marketing & Development

Sayre Christian Village
3775 Belleau Wood Drive
Lexington, KY 40517
859-514-0031

Contact Us

Have any questions about living at the Sayre Christian Village? Do you want to know why Sayre Christian Village is "A Great Place to Call Home"? Call us or fill out the form for more information!

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