Across my home state of Ohio, as I write this, everyone age 40 and older is now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Next week, that eligibility expands to age 16 and up. I got my first shot last week at a mass vaccination site (a university arena), and it couldn’t have been any easier or more efficient.
The idea that we’re finally moving forward is starting to feel real.
In a normal year, April would find me prepping for the EFA Expo & Conference—pulling out my suitcase, tossing in my always-stocked toiletry kit, and trying (and failing) to winnow down my shoe options. But all of those items (including the dressier heels) have been literally collecting dust in my closet. Not for long!
Their time will come Aug. 28-31, when EFA Expo takes place in Chattanooga, Tenn. By then, I’m confident things will feel much different, much better. Yes, as the EFA team plans the 2021 event, we will still err on the side of caution with plenty of hand sanitizer stations, masking and social distancing protocols, and common-sense procedures to keep everyone healthy and safe. But the potential number of vaccinated attendees and exhibitors gives me hope. I really can’t wait to see my colleagues and friends in this industry in person, at last.
There will be so much to talk about. A lot of hard lessons were learned in 2020, and that’s only pushed the gas pedal on innovative thinking for safer senior living environments, home comforts, and mental health support. Our industry’s architects, owners, designers, and product suppliers are rising to the challenge, and I know you’re eager to compare notes and share what you’re working on.
In fact, we’re giving you a little taste of those insights—particularly relating to pandemic response—with our upcoming two-day virtual EFA Spring Summit (environmentsforaging.com/summit). This online-only event, April 27-28, features four CEU-eligible sessions and a fun happy half-hour that should help tide us all over until the real deal in Chattanooga. You can register for either or both events at EnvironmentsforAging.com; buying both at the same time will save you 25 percent off your EFA Spring Summit pass.
By the time we get together in August, it will have been almost 2½ years since we convened at the last EFA Expo. And while it won’t be exactly the same—the hugs and handshakes will have to wait a little longer—after such a long absence, it’s bound to be even sweeter. Join us and see for yourself.
