Tenants of Gardens on Tenth in Altona are finding new ways to reach out to family members during this time of social distancing.

Staff are assisting with virtual visits and phone calls. In one of the buildings within the complex where access is restricted, they've set up a special area where residents, still separated from their loved ones, can see them while talking to them on the phone.

"We have amazing staff...and they wanted to find ways for our tenants to keep connected to their families," said Lisa Smiley, managing director at Gardens on Tenth.

In another effort to keep physical distancing from turning in to social isolation, tenants write messages to loved ones on large poster paper. Photos of them holding those messages are then shared on the Gardens' social media page. Online responses to those pictures and messages are then shared back with the tenants, which Smiley hopes will also bring joy.

"Staff are reporting that the tenants were very pleased to be able to reach out to their families and enjoyed the time spent writing out the messages," added Smiley.

She adds this can be a very lonely time for seniors, and says the Gardens staff understands this which is why they are working so hard to maintain those outside connections.

"A virtual visit or phone call is sometimes all it takes to brighten what can otherwise be a very long and lonely day and it gives our tenants something to look forward to. They're certainly missing their families during this time and social interactions that are so important for everyone's health and well-being, we wanted to ensure they had ways to stay connected."

Meantime, Gardens on Tenth is actively looking for volunteers to virtually visit with tenants. More information can be found by calling Julie at 204-324-8945.