RESPONSE TO COVID-19
UPDATE IN SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SENIOR CENTERS

For the past two years of the pandemic, Aster’s top priority has been the health and safety of the older adults we serve, our employees, and our volunteers. We have appreciated your patience while together we navigate these challenging times. There have finally been sufficient declines in transmission rates that we can begin to carefully lift some of our safety requirements.

On March 17th, the CDC reported that the COVID-19 Community Level for Maricopa County transitioned from Medium to Low. People who are at high risk for severe illness, including older adults, are advised to continue to wear masks in public indoor spaces when a community is at the Medium level. We were also pleased that Maricopa County Public Health reported that the City of Mesa had the lowest case rates last week in more than a year. Barring a massive surge and return to high risk conditions, we can begin to modify our safety procedures.

Updated Safety Requirements for Senior Center Activities

• Stay home if you are sick with COVID-like symptoms or if you believe you may have been exposed. Please don’t risk exposing other participants or our staff and volunteers. We have free home test kits to share – just let us know if you would like one.
• Masks are encouraged instead of required beginning April 4th. We hope you would understand that this may need to change back if transmission rates surge. Please be sensitive to the needs of others who continue to wear masks, especially those at higher risk. If you are concerned about this change and would prefer to temporarily have pick-up and go meals instead of dining at our center, just let us know.
• Some limits will continue for activities. We are still in the process of reopening, and higher risk activities are still on hold. We will slowly and safely begin to expand capacity for lunch, parties, and other activities.
• Advance sign-up continues to be required for all activities and lunch. Walk-ins will not be possible. Reservations will no longer be accepted once the maximum number has been reached. To sign-up in advance, participants may (1) call the Center, (2) make reservations with staff after participating in an activity, or (3) register through the online calendar by clicking an activity.

Can we assist you in getting vaccinated or boosted? Our Outreach & Social Services team can help you schedule an appointment and arrange for transportation if needed.

Check with the Center or our website for updates and the reopening of more activities. Please take care and stay safe! Thank you for your understanding as we move forward together.

Updated April 4, 2022