By Liz Seegert: For More Info, Go Here…
As confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to spread across the U.S., concern for our own health and our loved ones’ health is understandably high. It’s especially worrisome for older adults, who are more vulnerable to this infection; for people with underlying health conditions or for those living in a congregate setting like a nursing home or an assisted living facility.
The recent news of multiple deaths at a nursing home near Seattle due to the coronavirus has many family members anxious. They need to know their loved ones are safe and protected, but how can they be sure?
“It’s natural if family members are worried,” says Dee Pekruhn, director of life plan communities services and policy at LeadingAge, an association of nonprofit providers of aging services, including nursing homes. Her own mother is in an assisted living facility.
“Know who your loved one’s caregivers are, and be in contact with them. I certainly do that with my mom regularly,” Pekruhn says, referring to the facility’s staff members who regularly see and care for her mother.
LeadingAge has set up a webpage to help its members prepare and minimize risk of a potential outbreak, following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Facilities should also be sharing information about coronavirus with family members, similar to what this Georgia-based nonprofit is doing.
