“When we’re talking about utilizing state resources, nursing homes need to be right up there at the top of the list. It’s no secret we care for the people who are most to vulnerable COVID-19.” Read More
The Crisis
COVID-19 disproportionately affects the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions who need long-term care. Because they are the most vulnerable to the health effects of the pandemic, these patients must be given priority as federal and state governments work to combat the virus.
Access to Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for our staff and the ability to test and receive testing results quickly is crucial to protecting our homes against COVID-19. Learn More
Alabama nursing homes serve tens of thousands of people every day. Even with the COVID-19 crisis threatening our residents, our staff continues to provide daily attention and care to this vulnerable population. For example, our residents:
receive more hours of care per day from certified nursing assistants than the national average
ability to maintain moving independently higher than the national average
have fewer depressive symptoms than the national average
have fewer emergency department visits than the national average
Source: Medicare Nursing Home Compare, April 2020
There is at least one nursing home in every Alabama county providing services to those who require 24 hour skilled nursing care.
Nursing homes serve people who are elderly, disabled, frail, have multiple medical conditions and Alzheimer’s/dementia.
Many of our employees have served our residents for decades. They are nurses, therapists, nurse aides, social workers, activity professionals and many others.
Since visitors are not allowed at nursing homes during this pandemic, many homes are relying on the community to help ease the loneliness of residents. Your local nursing home can give you a list of things you can do to help bring a smile to this most vulnerable population. Read More
Social media is a powerful tool that we can use to educate Alabamians and state leaders about the needs of nursing home residents and their caregivers. Use the hashtag #ProtectTheVulnerable to spread the word about what nursing homes need to stop the spread of COVID-19.
As legislators work to find the best ways to fund state government, they will make decisions that directly impact the residents of nursing homes. Let them know that nursing home residents and staff must remain a priority as they craft funding priorities through this time of crisis.
Our members have taken the threat of COVID-19 seriously from the start. Most restricted or stopped visitation and began screening employees before state and federal government agencies required it. They continue to practice infection control guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and isolate residents who test positive or are believed to have been exposed to someone who is COVID-19 positive. Like other health care providers, nursing homes need a sufficient supply of personal protective equipment (PPE). Infection control measures will only be as effective as our ability to secure PPE.
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