Recently, it was announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that it was now safe for fully vaccinated seniors that are residing within nursing homes to resume a lot of the activities that were once okay before the COVID-19 pandemic began. Many of these activities, according to the CDC, do not require residents to wear masks at this time. These things include all dining activities and eliminates the six foot social distancing guidelines that nursing homes were being asked to follow.
Additionally, the CDC recommendations also state that it is safe for visitors who are fully vaccinated to have contact with nursing home residents. For many, this might be the most exciting news of all. It’s been a long time since something as simple (and once taken for granted) as a hug could be given to a family member. If you’ve been vaccinated, your loved one’s been vaccinated, and you’re both comfortable doing so, the CDC says that it’s now okay in most cases for this to happen. Just typing this is making me smile! For those that miss their family members, this is incredible news!
Of course, if you or a loved one are more comfortable wearing a mask still, there’s nothing wrong with doing so. There is no harm in doing so if that’s what you’re most comfortable with.
The CDC has issued new guidance stating that many seniors can have COVID restrictions lifted if they are fully vaccinated.
Additionally, it should be pointed out that this alleviation of restrictions is not necessarily universal. There will likely be places across the country that still require or strongly recommend masks. This will be based upon local infection rates–both in the community and in the nursing home itself, local ordinances, and general comfort levels. Just because this is the guidance coming out of the CDC does not necessarily mean that there are no exceptions.
Ultimately, a lot of this is going to be based on the individual’s comfort levels. If you or a loved one is not fully ready to engage like you once did, that’s okay. Everyone has their own levels of comfort when it comes to dealing with the pandemic, and even though the CDC now says that certain activities are okay, it’s perfectly fine to refrain from these things if you are not yet comfortable with it. You have your own unique set of needs, so don’t feel pressured to return to a “normal” life if you’re not a hundred percent ready to do so. There is no harm in being cautious.
This has been a tough time for a lot of people, but there’s no doubt that nursing home residents have been hit the hardest. This loosening of restrictions is an indication that the tide is turning in the war against this virus. The last year has been a struggle for billions across the globe, but no one has fought harder than those that live within skilled nursing facilities. Let’s celebrate this progress, but also be cautious as we move forward, each doing our part to keep those around us and ourselves as safe as possible.
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