Letter to Families

Dear Families of Residents at Robert Nimi Nikkei Home,

Many weeks have gone by since the restrictions brought on by the outbreak of the coronavirus began. We have all lost the personal visits with friends and relatives,  and it is a very sad and frustrating experience not to be able to see our loved ones. For the friends and relatives of residents of the Robert Nimi Nikkei Home, knowing the isolation that your loved one must feel adds to your concern about their well-being. But let me assure you that we are doing everything we can to ensure that they are not only healthy, but comfortable. 

We know you are trying to keep in touch with your loved one during these difficult times, and your contact can be incredibly supportive. You may have received suggestions from our Executive Director on some ways in which you can stay in touch with your loved one. Here are some suggestions additional ones which can add to that support, many of which I am sure you have been doing already:

• Phone calls are always good, providing the resident is able to answer

• A written note or a card is a nice way to express your feelings for someone and, if necessary, the staff will find someone to read it to your loved one.

• If there are grandchildren, a drawing that the resident can look at or put on their wall is always a special touch

• A family photo is an excellent way to safely bring friends and relatives into a protected area

• We have launched a Send Letters to Seniors initiative, asking community members to let seniors at Nimi Nikkei Home know there are people out there thinking of them

• Finally, there is the opportunity for Virtual Family Meetings, and Virtual Buddy, using computers and the internet, is being offered by staff.  This is available on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, where the resident can be escorted to a special virtual meeting room. If you would like to take advantage of this, please email [email protected] to reserve a time.

It is a challenge for us all to remain connected to our loved ones, but for the residents of the Robert Nimi Nikkei Home our staff have been actively researching and creating opportunities to ensure that your loved one’s emotional needs are being cared for at this difficult time. They have been working tirelessly and sacrificing much. Words or cards of appreciation and support for them are also always welcome. They will know that they are not alone, and that they are working with you in the care of your loved one.     

It is our hope that we may be able to ease the restrictions sooner rather than later. In the meantime, please look after yourselves and the rest of your family.  It is a time to know the real meaning of “caring for each other”.

Sincerely,

Ruth Coles, President
Nikkei Seniors Health Care and Housing Society