Ehatare has also received government funding for Covid-19 infection control. This has funded regular Covid-19 testing, masks and other PPE (personal protective equipment) and extra cleaning staff and entrance screeners. The nursing home obtained new beds and lifts. Carpets were replaced with washable flooring, automatic faucets were installed, and beautiful new washable furniture was obtained for areas in which nursing home residents participate in activities to ensure that residents’ living areas are kept fully cleaned. Lighting levels are being increased and upgraded with energy efficient LED lighting.
Ehatare has not suffered from the Covid-19 consequences that have been experienced in many other retirement and long-term care homes.
The activities have continued at Ehatare throughout Covid, through the ingenuity of our Activity team with Janne Laanemaa’s leadership. Live feed concerts from Estonia have been presented on a big screen, including Ivo Linna, Ott Lepland, Karl Madis, Mart Sander, Peeter Kaljumäe and many others. Lief and Laas Kolga, working at Ehatare this summer under the Canada Summer Jobs program, are curating select Estonian vinyl records and music alongside other work. During summer live performances can be enjoyed outdoors. Recently a mobile opera performed for Ehatare residents!