COVID-19 hit communities all over the world, and many people have been lost. As we continue to face this virus daily, it is more important than ever to look to the future of staying safe from another potential pandemic. This is especially vital for those who may be in need of long-term care in the near future. Unfortunately, more than 45% of all US COVID-19 deaths were those who lived in or worked in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Overall, this makes up over 70,000 of the US death toll for the coronavirus. With this in mind, what options does your family have in providing care to your loved one, while keeping their safety in mind?
Why Nursing Homes Were Hit so Hard
According to the California Health Care Foundation, nursing homes were hotspots for the coronavirus because many have struggled with infection control in the past. While nursing care facilities are inspected for safety and quality, they often score low on infection control. With such a rampant virus as COVID-19, the already unprepared facilities became breeding grounds. Unfortunately, a study by Havard Medical School shows that there is no correlation between quality ratings of nursing facilities and their COVID outbreak numbers. Overall, this means that even some of the higher-rated nursing homes were still struggling with COVID-19 containment and care. Of the elderly population that requires long-term care, only 10% live in full-time care facilities, as of 2018. That 10% was hit by COVID the hardest of any group in the country.
Retirement Communities and COVID-19
Retirement communities offer better distancing of residents compared to most other long-term care facilities. They often have common areas and activity facilities for residents. In many areas, these common areas were closed or limited during COVID restrictions.
However, most of these communities do not provide their residents with medical care and home assistance. Because of this, a retirement community may not be the best choice for your loved one, if they need long-term care, or if they may require it in the future. On the other hand, some of these facilities do allow third-party long-term care assistance to help its residents. If you are shopping around for a retirement community, be sure to see how they approach long-term care. It is important to understand your loved one’s options.
In-Home Care
In-home care via a nurse or home health aide is a good way to ensure that your loved one’s needs are met while maintaining their independence. A home health aide can provide home healthcare as well as light housekeeping. In-home care helps protect your loved one during a pandemic as your loved one can socially distance and stay safe in their own home. For over 50 years, Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing elderly and disabled individuals with comprehensive in-home care. We know that your loved one’s health and safety are the top priority. We work with you and your family to maintain a safe home environment for them.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact Safe Harbor by clicking here, or call us at (718)-979-6900.
