How to celebrate Christmas in nursing homes, at a time of new health restrictions? If faced with the surge in covid-19 cases, some establishments decide to reduce the number of visits, others want to keep the holiday spirit, after two particularly difficult years for residents. This is the case with the “Rives de la Zorn” nursing home in Saverne, where the staff has been delivering the package for several weeks.
Decorations and bredele
Last year, at the same time, the virus had passed through the doors of the nursing home and spoiled the party a bit. But this year, Acting Director Joshua Belloir decided to keep the protocol in place (health pass required for all visitors) and maintain a festive spirit for general well-being.
“The residents have really suffered from successive confinements for two years. The vaccine has been proven and continues to prove itself. The objective for us is always to maintain this life within the establishment, it is important for everybody”.
For several weeks, Christmas decorations have been blooming little by little in the places. The entertainment team has also revived the tradition of the Christmas market. The residents therefore made objects and bredele, which were then sold to visitors.
– Jules Hauss
“We welcome fewer people than in other years, when we really tried to bring our partners … but it remains a great highlight of the work of our residents”, enlightens Sabine Clesse, the animation manager.
Despite the partial immobilization of one of her arms, Marie-Thérèse, who has been living at the nursing home for a few months, was therefore able to redo her hand, by doing “small balls and shapes”, she who during each month of December produced … 150 kinds.
– Jules Hauss
There is a cocooning and enveloping spirit which is very good for everyone
The Christmas operation spanned several weeks. Visit of Santa Claus, special Lapland day, Christmas choir. The objective is that the festive spirit permeates the places in the long term.
“There is a cocooning and enveloping spirit which is very good for everyone”, smiles Sabine Clesse.
A Christmas dinner between residents will be organized on December 24. They can also celebrate it with their family, by leaving the establishment for a meal.