To prevent the spread of coronavirus, assisted living homes are monitoring staff and patient symptoms, implementing social distancing policies, and enhancing cleanliness standards. Administrators are relying on a mixture of national and local guidance.

Preventative efforts can look slightly different depending on the home, but they usually include a version of the following precautions:

  • Reducing Contact: Canceling group activities, outings, and non-essential appointments and visits are crucial to reducing contact that can lead to the spread of infection. Homes are encouraging 6 ft. of distance between everyone whenever possible. Visits with relatives may occur over the phone or video rather than in person. Staff and residents are wearing protective masks in many situations.
  • Monitoring Health: Assisted living homes are screening their personnel at the beginning of shifts for fevers and other symptoms. They are also asking residents daily about their health to ensure that they catch symptoms early. 
  • Improving Cleanliness: Homes are increasing the frequency of cleaning for “high-touch” surfaces like doorknobs and bathroom fixtures. They are also providing hand sanitizer stations and encouraging even more frequent hand washing for residents and staff. 

Overall, assisted living homes are implementing similar guidelines to those used by nursing homes. Their actions are typically guided by the CDC guidelines, though state licensing boards may provide additional help and information.

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