Important Questions About Visitation at Sonata Senior Living
On March 22, 2021, the Florida Department of Emergency Management released a new Executive Order, DEM 21-001, which rescinded state visitation restrictions for long-term care facilities, including Sonata Senior Living. In response, we are thrilled to welcome you back to our communities with fewer restrictions on visitation.
At this time, social distancing, staff and guest screening, mask requirements, and enhanced sanitation guidelines remain in effect. Sonata Senior Living will continue to monitor these guidelines and will update our post as soon as any changes occur.
The questions and answers below have been provided with guidance from The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). Should you need additional information, please contact your Sonata community at any time. As always, your Executive Director is available to answer any questions you may have.
Q: When will the new Executive Order (DEM 21-001) become effective?
A: The order was effective on March 22, 2021.
Q: Have all Sonata Senior Living communities lifted the visitation restrictions?
A: Yes, we can immediately welcome you back to our communities without visitation restrictions.
Q: What types of communities does the new executive order impact?
A: For Sonata Senior Living, visitation restrictions have been lifted at our Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care Communities.
Q: Is Sonata Senior Living allowing onsite tours to prospective residents and their families?
A: Yes, we are welcoming future residents onsite to experience firsthand the Sonata difference.
Q: Can a resident leave a Sonata Senior Living Community?
A: Yes, residents are permitted to leave with no restrictions.
Q: Do I need to schedule a visit to a Sonata Senior Living community?
A: No, in response to the March 22 Executive Order, Sonata Senior Living no longer requires pre-scheduled visits.
Q: Must a resident be vaccinated to have visitors?
A: No, neither residents nor their visitors are required to be vaccinated.
Q: Will Sonata Senior Living continue to screen visitors?
A: Yes, Sonata will continue to monitor and follow CDC guidance regarding visitor screening (i.e., temperature checks and COVID-19 signs, symptoms and exposure questions.)
Q: Can residents have physical contact with visitors, such as a hug?
A: Yes! We are happy to say there is no prohibition regarding physical contact during visitation. Best practices regarding who should wear protective equipment (PPE) during visits should monitor CDC guidance here.
Q: Can multiple visits happen at the same time in a large, common area?
A: Visitation in a large common area is acceptable if infection control precautions are followed, including property fitted face masks and social distancing.
Q: Can I visit a resident in their room?
A: Yes, in-room visitation is permitted if the resident resides in a private room. Residents who room share should refrain from having in-room visitors at this time. Once again, the recommended infection prevention and control, including physical distancing and the use of well-fitting masks should be maintained.
Q: How often can I visit a resident?
A: There are no restrictions on the number or length of visits.
Q: Will Sonata allow children to visit?
A: Yes, children may visit Sonata Senior Living. An adult must accompany young children to ensure adherence with infection control guidelines.
Q: Will Sonata allow a person to enter to host church services or entertainment?
A: Yes, under the new Executive Order, all assisted living facility service providers must follow and adhere to CDC Guidelines for Long-Term Care Communities. More information regarding these guidelines can be accessed here.
The COVID pandemic has illuminated the importance of choosing a senior living community that follows the highest standards in safety and care. Sonata Safe is more than a promise. It’s a signature program that reflects our commitment to go above and beyond what is expected to ensure the health and happiness of the residents and families we serve.
