“Messages of love” from family and friends comfort care home residents

In the fight against COVID-19, seniors’ care providers across British Columbia are having to take extraordinary measures to keep their residents and staff safe, such as restricting visitors in care homes. 

And while some providers are creating opportunities for residents to see their loved ones through closed windows, others are harnessing technology to keep them virtually connected.

In an effort to alleviate loneliness and boredom among residents, Menno Place in Abbotsford is asking friends and family members to leave them “messages of love” through an online form. Over 200 messages have been contributed so far, with families sending in photos of grandchildren and pets, birthday wishes, and day-to-day updates. 

Below are some messages that show just how much the seniors at Menno Place are loved and missed.

So sorry that I can’t come and visit you for a few days. When I can come back I will bring you some Timbits to go with your coffee. You know that I love you. Why don’t you find a window in the dining room where the sun is shining in and sit in the sunshine for a while. It’s such a beautiful morning. See you soon.

I miss you Mom…..and I love you so much!!! I’m glad to know that you are safe in your home and that wonderful Menno Home people are helping you every day! I’m sending a virtual hug to you from Port Moody.

Hello Mum, We are sorry we can not visit you but we need to keep you and the others safe. Glad you have your friends and care workers with you. Please call us if you need anything and we can drop it off or if you just want to say hello. We send love and hugs.

I hope you’re doing well and staying out of trouble! Know that we are thinking of you and praying for you and for all of you in Menno! We are doing well, staying healthy (so far!) and are washing our hands a million times a day! We miss you, but we’ll talk again soon! Love you!!!

Hi Dad, I hope you’re keeping so busy you haven’t even missed me yet. I can’t come visit you right now. I can’t go to exercise class either, I think my biceps have shrunk. 😂 Today is the first day of spring, hallelujah. We’ll be able to go outside soon and bask in the glorious sunshine. Look after things. I hope to talk with you by phone soon. Miss you and love you Dad. 

Can you tell Nana that Bear and I miss her SO much and love her more than anything in the world!!

Dad, We are so sad that we can’t visit with you in person, but we are so happy that you are safe and well. We are doing well too and quarantined at home just like you. We want to make sure you have anything you need, so please let the staff know if you want something because we are planning to send you a weekly supply box, whether you want it or not. It will at least make us feel that we are doing something to brighten your day. 

Wish we could be there to spend your birthday with you! Happy 92nd Birthday (on Mar 20) Nana we love you ❤️❤️❤️ Here’s a photo of the dogs for you to enjoy and hopefully put up in your room.

Hope you’re doing well and enjoying the sunshine! We’re all fine and hope to be able to visit again soon! In the meantime, don’t forget you have some chips and chocolates in your closet!