After weeks of sheltering in place and practicing social distancing measures, most people are ready for some person-to-person interaction. No more so than the senior adults living in Buckner senior living communities. 

On March 13, Buckner Retirement Services made the decision to implement visitor restrictions across all six of its Texas senior living communities. Since that time, Buckner staff has worked with residents and their family members to implement creative ways to stay in communication, such as utilizing video conference platforms.

The creativity stepped up a notch with the introduction of car parades. 

Friends and family decorated cars and signs and rode by the communities, hanging out car windows waving and cheering to the seniors and staff who stepped outside to view the parade. 

Buckner staff continued to follow strict social distancing and PPE protocols while helping residents come outside to watch the parade. At some locations, the parade was also visible through window views to senior adults residing in portions of the community’s independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing apartments.

"I am constantly in awe of the sacrifice each of our residents is making to help keep each other safe," said David Sims, executive director at Buckner Westminster Place. "And I am beyond proud of every one of our associates, who continue to care for our residents. Senior living employees are on the frontline of our nation’s response to the pandemic, and every single one of them is a hero."

The parades are one way friends and family members could show their support and love for seniors, as well as the frontline workers taking care of them. 

In Longview, more than 80 cars participated in Buckner Westminster Place's car parade, and the joy was undeniable and contagious. Smiles erupted from all who watched the exuberant procession.

You can show  your support for seniors without ever leaving your home. Go gold for seniors and display a gold ribbon outside your home during the month of May and June to help increase awareness for senior living residents and the frontline workers caring for them during the COVID-19 pandemic.