The vaccines provide hope to one of the most vulnerable groups to the virus
In December 2020, Parkway Place and Buckner Villas were the first Buckner senior living communities to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Since then, all six Buckner senior living communities have hosted at least one vaccination clinic for residents and associates. Working with partnering pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS, the vaccination clinics are offered to eligible participants free of charge.
Administering a new vaccine presents challenges
Facing challenges such as shortages and distribution inconsistencies with a new vaccine is not uncommon. Buckner staff continues to work with pharmacies to schedule additional clinics so every eligible resident and associate has the opportunity to receive the first dose. The second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine must be administered within 21 to 28 days. Buckner communities are scheduling clinics this week for those who have received the first dose of the vaccine to receive their second dose.
Buckner provides vaccine education so residents and associates are comfortable with their informed decisions
Buckner continues its vaccination education campaign through the distribution of weekly informational letters and memos, posters and a series of videos with Dr. Neeta Nayak, medical director for Ventana by Buckner. Information and resources are available to residents and health care associates, allowing them to make an educated decision. Not every eligible resident and associate opted to receive the vaccine when first available but many are now expressing interest in receiving it at the next available opportunity.
Senior health and safety is always a priority
Regardless whether a person has been vaccinated, Buckner continues to require all associates to adhere to CDC guidelines regarding the use of PPE, masks, hygiene and encouraging social distancing for the good of their community. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit the CDC website and consult your physician. For more information on Buckner senior living communities, please visit bucknerretirement.org.