Considering Assisted Living in a Time of COVID-19

Published: November 8, 2020

 

The choice to move to assisted living can be difficult. The current pandemic only makes the decision harder.

If you are home-bound and your loved one is visiting to provide care, you’re both likely careful to keep the virus from inadvertently entering your home. But with limited contact, you’re both also likely concerned about getting the full amount of care you need.

Assisted living is still the right choice for many. Ohio Living can help make the decision easier.

When to Consider Assisted Living

Think about your specific needs when evaluating the risks of remaining at home versus moving to assisted living. Consider if you are at high risk for falls, medication errors, dangerous memory lapses, hygiene issues, and other problems. Assess the potential consequences of each.

Also, consider that people who are isolated at home during this pandemic may be more at-risk than ever before. Loneliness, isolation, lack of nutrition, inactivity, lack of mental stimulation, and depression can easily result. These circumstances can lead to a decline in physical health, mental health, and emotional well-being.

When any of the above issues are left unchecked, a person may decline quickly and lose their remaining independence.

When Home Isn’t the Safest Option, Choose Ohio Living

You can trust Ohio Living to provide the care you need while going above and beyond to keep you safe. Our nonprofit, faith-based mission means that we put people first.

We wholeheartedly believe that residents need to see their families, and we are delighted that visitations are now permitted by the Ohio Department of Health, under certain conditions. Until restrictions are lifted further, we commit our ongoing creativity to help families connect with loved ones virtually when visits are not feasible. Our love and compassion for our residents and patients will never change, and we’ll do everything in our power to help them continue to feel loved, happy and secure.

You already know that our team provides superior care with love and compassion. You should also know about our enhanced infection control protocols, which we put in place well in advance of governmental directives. Here are some of the most important things we do to keep you safe:

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) equipment is installed in our skilled nursing center and assisted living ventilation systems, which is a UV-C disinfection method generally used by hospitals.

UV-C sterile wands are used to disinfect surfaces including over-the-bed tables, handrails, and personal protective equipment.

Two mobile UV-C systems travel among our communities as needed to disinfect rooms and large pieces of equipment.

Electrostatic sprayers are used for surface disinfection.

Sterilization of our N95 masks by Battelle.

Continuous work by Ohio Living’s statewide team to secure ample amounts of personal protective equipment from both traditional and non-traditional sources.

Thorough screening of all staff every day upon arrival. If symptomatic, they are not permitted to work until they are cleared to come back in accordance with health department guidelines.

Asking all employees to protect themselves when off the clock through social distancing, wearing masks, and staying at home as much as possible.

Dedicated staffing that does not work in or visit other areas of the community.

Continued compliance with CDC, ODH, and CMS guidelines for COVID safety.

Regular calls with our corporate team for guidance and resources.

Continued advocacy at state and federal levels to prioritize the needs of assisted living residents for PPE, testing, funding and more.

COVID-19 didn’t stop the need for assisted living/long-term-nursing care. We’re still here, ready to provide you or your loved ones with the highest quality care and services in a safe and supportive environment.  For more information, fill out the contact form on the right-hand side of our page.  We’re well-prepared, and we’re doing our utmost to keep you safe.  

logo-always-use