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How Some Evanston Seniors are Staying Safe and Social During the Pandemic

(Evanston, IL) Barbara and John Schlosser of Evanston, Ill., are both in their 80s and taking every precaution possible to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We wear our masks whenever we leave our apartment. We avoid crowds, and we wash our hands often," said Barbara Schlosser.

She and her husband also have the benefit of living in a community where precautions are taken to keep residents safe. They were among the first residents of Avidor Evanston, a premier 55 plus active adult community, when it opened its doors this summer right in the middle of the pandemic.

"Our movers were wearing masks, everyone around us were wearing masks, and we wore masks so we felt comfortable during the move," said Barbara Schlosser.

"We were very impressed with the professional attitude of the staff. Everything was very organized. The people were accommodating," said John Schlosser.

Safe and social has been the Avidor way from the start. All Avidor associates have completed coronavirus testing per CDC guidelines. They wear masks at all times and use other protective gear when appropriate; and they do frequent temperature checks.

In addition, surfaces are routinely wiped down throughout the day, and specialized fog equipment is used to sanitize public spaces.

"There is disinfectant available to use everywhere. They have masks if you need masks. The food for the continental breakfast - the rolls and all that - is enclosed in packages, and the fruit is all in containers too. So it is very professional for this time." said Barbara Schlosser.

"We're doing our best to be socially conscious and keep everyone safe without making it feel like a restrictive environment," said Maddie Scudiero, Community Director for Avidor Evanston. "We are still offering all of the amenities that drew people to the community, just in a different way."

The daily happy hours are still happening, though participants are asked to wear masks and maintain social distance. The onsite fitness center remains open, but the number of people being allowed inside at any given time is limited so social distance can be maintained.

"We have asked residents to sign up for the blocks of time they want, to wear masks, and to wipe down the equipment after use," said Scudiero. "Otherwise, there are really no restrictions on the use of the space."

Daily fitness classes are still being offered with the number of participants being limited to keep everyone safe.

The Schlossers say the safety precautions that have been put in place don't bother them at all. "It's not a hardship. You do what you have to do," said John Schlosser.

"We have a nice, lovely apartment and we both stay very busy," added Barbara Schlosser. "The good thing is we made the move - we got here and we love our new place. We just have to ride it out."

To learn more about Avidor Evanston and view move-in specials, visit AvidorEvanston.com. You can also call 847-250-0716.

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