LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — After the state relaxed restrictions at long-term care facilities, Sayre Christian Village devised a plan to safely allow visitors to see residents in person.
The in-person visits are only allowed at non-Medicare-certified facilities currently. At Sayre, those include Friendship Towers, Baunta Apartments, and Forest View Independent Living.
95-year-old Virgil Hughes lives in Friendship Towers.
His daughter, Vicki Sageser, used to visit him nearly every day until the pandemic hit. But for the past year, their contact has been mostly limited to phone calls and visits through windows.
"My sister and I are his safety net," Sageser said. "When you can't be that, it's really hard. There are so many sleepless nights knowing that you can't do anything about it. You're just totally blocked out."
The only times she has seen him in person were during medical visits and emergencies, so when she was given the chance to finally get some quality time with him, she couldn't pass the opportunity up.
"It feels like coming home," Sageser said with tear-filled eyes when she visited her father Tuesday. "It really does."
For now, Sayre Christian Village is allowing three visits per week, a maximum Sageser is gladly taking advantage of.
"I've already scheduled three visits this week," she said laughing. "Whatever they allow me."
Soon, she hopes the entire family can get together again. It's in those moments she says her father is happiest.
Currently, Sayre has 25 appointments per day set up for visitors. One visitor is allowed. Two are allowed if they're from the same household.
All visitors must wear masks and are subject to a screening process. More details can be found on their website.
