Dear residents, staff, families and supporters,

Did you know smiling not only offers a mood boost but helps our bodies release cortisol and endorphins that provide numerous health benefits, including:
• Reduced blood pressure
• Increased endurance
• Reduced pain
• Reduced stress
• Strengthened immune system

Yesterday, February 1, after three years of masking up, we were delighted to let everyone know we are taking the masks off! The staff and residents were grinning from ear to ear! We will remain responsive to changes, continue to communicate changes, and residents and staff will be tested when needed. Visitors are encouraged not to visit with any kind of illness they may be experiencing.

Cross-floor activities are well underway and we have renewed our relationship and intergenerational programming with St. Paul’s, area schools and organizations. Worship service is open to all and you are welcome to attend! Please feel free to join us Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. in Good Shepherd Chapel.

Bartels welcomes a new volunteer coordinator to the staff – Kristina Ladage. She is reorganizing and expanding the volunteer program! If you would like to volunteer, go to the volunteer tab on our website or give us a call.

Our goals for 2023 will include:
1) Workforce – Recruitment, retention and hiring the right people to fit our culture
2) Housing options – Bartels wants to support the housing needs for seniors in and around the Waverly area
3) Bartels at Home – Bartels will continue to work on ways to grow and improve this service in and around the Waverly community
4) Financial stability – Each decision will be made in a responsible way in order to ensure Bartels is strong for years to come

There have been 15 nursing home closures in Iowa during the last year. The good news is, Bartels is in a good place and we are thankful for your support and the support of the community!

Sincerely,

Paula Geise, RN, MSN, CEO

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