The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS)  recently released recommendations  for state and local officials to gradually reopen nursing homes. The CMS recommendations guide officials to evaluate the feasibility to ease COVID-19 restrictions. State survey agency and state and local health departments participate in the decision-making process. CMS provides questions to answer to assess next steps.

As summer approaches, there is a gradual easing of COVID-19 restrictions in some states. Unfortunately, caregivers at home and in long-term care still continue to face repetitive days of providing care and support.  These individuals are at risk to develop compassion fatigue.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately one-fifth (20%) U.S. adults will experience a significant problem with communication (e.g., speech, language, voice) and other conditions that affect balance, taste, and smell.

Memorial Day is an annual remembrance of the brave, heroic individuals who gave their all in service to their country. We also remember their families who lost loved ones. During this time of COVID-19 quarantine, reflecting on heroes is even more appropriate.

In the past few days, the internet in my house has been down. That has meant no television, no recorded shows, and no entertainment of any electronic kind. My recourse was to watch DVD movies. I rented “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.” In the movie, Tom Hanks embodies Fred Rogers, the personable, gentle host of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The movie's plot focuses on his relationship with a journalist navigating challenges with his family while demonstrating the power of caring and forgiveness. The film also shows the importance of being fully present for and making connections with people. For these reasons, it is the perfect movie for helping to understand how to get through this COVID-19 pandemic.

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges. The economy is fluctuating, with a significant number of people becoming unemployed or being furloughed. The stress of not being able to spend face-to-face time with loved ones is difficult to manage. The quarantine challenges all of us to make changes and cope with being separated from family members, especially those living in long-term care communities. Given the isolation and loneliness that residents are likely to experience, it is more important than ever to maintain bonds and closeness however possible.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues with no obvious end in sight. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provides information and updates on the Coronavirus disease. States are lifting restrictions, allowing for life to feel more normal, a term that has taken on a new meaning. The current normal involves different rituals and ways to interact with our community and, especially, our loved ones in the long-term care.