On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a pandemic. Authorities around the world have emphasised on the importance of hygiene practices, social distancing and self-quarantining owing to the highly contagious nature of COVID-19. While most governments are taking requisite measures to contain the spread of the disease, citizens worldwide are experiencing something in common – dread and panic. Older people, who are believed to be more vulnerable to COVID-19 due to their weakened immune systems, are especially concerned. During times like these, seniors living in independent senior living communities have the means to cope with the situation better. Let us understand how.   They feel safe People living in independent senior living communities rely on their service provider to smoothen things out when times get stressful and chaotic. At Columbia Pacific Communities, we provide a safe environment for our residents during tumultuous times. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first message on the outbreak, our protocol embraces the principle of “precautions, not panic.” The initiatives being taken across our communities during the lockdown period rest on the pillars of raising awareness around COVID-19, preventing its spread and boosting the wellbeing and morale of our residents. Sharing the right information and dispelling myths about COVID-19 that are being widely shared via WhatsApp, is an important example.   They stay connected The essence of a community lies in feeling connected with others. Especially during a crisis such as the COVID-19 outbreak. Residents of Columbia Pacific Communities have each other’s back and comfort each other during difficult times like these. Whether it is exchanging messages on the community WhatsApp group or going for walks while maintaining social distancing, seniors don’t feel shut out as the world battles the pandemic.   They are worry-free Unlike seniors who live on their own in stand-alone homes or mixed family communities, where they have to fend for themselves or depend on others, seniors living in communities don’t have to bother themselves with chores. At Columbia Pacific Communities, residents can get their meals, medical supplies and other essentials delivered at their doorstep.   They feel secure With strict security measures and hygiene practices in place, residents have the assurance that they are well protected from the disease. To minimise the chance of spreading COVID-19 within the communities, the entry for visitors has been restricted at Columbia Pacific Communities. Outsiders are not allowed into the community, and home delivery of essentials is being driven by the community staff members.   They are cared for Caring for seniors doesn’t end with defining safety protocol. The staff members at Columbia Pacific Communities have been instructed to wash/sanitise their hands as well as commonly touched surfaces often. They have also been asked to report immediately if they feel unwell. Single residents are checked upon every day by the wellness staff and couples have been educated to report any symptoms to the medical teams.   Above all, seniors are nurtured in an enriching environment that encourages them to continue being socially, physically, emotionally, intellectually and mentally engaged.