Yes, senior living communities are serving food during the coronavirus. However, communal dining areas are closed to ensure that residents can follow social distancing protocols and to help prevent a spread of coronavirus in the community.

Rather, staff is delivering meals to residents’ rooms. The amount of food and the number of meals and snacks delivered per day should match what was being previously provided in the dining room. Additionally, if your loved one has any dietary restrictions, the community should still be providing them with special meals to meet their needs. 

As always, if the apartments and cottages have kitchens residents can choose to cook their own meals, though there may be limitations on leaving the premises for grocery store visits. Even if your loved one has limited kitchen appliances like a mini fridge, it can still be good for them to have extra food and healthy snacks on-hand. With the potentially-stressful nature of the current situation, having extra food in one’s apartment can provide comfort and security. Though your loved one may not be able to visit a grocery store themselves, arranging a delivery of groceries or packaged healthy snacks may be a good option to explore.

COVID-19 Update: With social distancing and stay-at-home orders, many seniors are struggling with loneliness and isolation. We’ve developed a list of products that caregivers or seniors can purchase to help older adults stay happy, healthy and connected, whether they are aging in place at home or in an assisted living community.

Additional Coronavirus FAQs