Posts made in August 2020

Because of their communal nature and the elderly population, they serve, assisted living facilities (ALFs) are at a much higher risk for spreading the COVID-19 virus among their residents.

The recent experiences of outbreaks in nursing homes have demonstrated that residents with COVID-19 may not report the usual symptoms such as respiratory symptoms or fever; some may not report any symptoms. So, when relaxing the restrictions, any assisted living facility in Missouri really needs to remain vigilant for signs of COVID-19 among residents and staff in order to prevent spread and protect residents.

Top Two Actions for ALFs To Take

Identify a Point of Contact at the Local Health Department – This person should immediately notify the health department about any of the following:

If COVID-19 Is Suspected or Confirmed Among Residents or Staff

If a Resident of the Assisted Living facility Develops a Respiratory Infection Resulting in Hospitalization

If Three or More Residents or Staff Develop New Respiratory Symptoms Within 72 Hours of Each Other

Educate residents, family members, and staff about COVID-19:

ALF’s should have a plan and a process to regularly communicate with staff, residents, and all family members specified by the resident, including information about cases of COVID-19 identified among residents or personnel. ALF’s should also provide information about COVID-19 (including information about signs and symptoms) and strategies for managing stress and anxiety.

Residential care facilities are often constructed in neighborhoods and provide increased supervision, as well as care and assistance with the many activities of daily living for elderly adults. Just as every house in a neighborhood is different, no two residential care homes are managed or styled the same way. If you are considering a residential care facility in Missouri for yourself or a loved one, here are some of the things you can expect.

Services That Are Included

A residential care facility is intended for seniors who may require increased care but don’t have intensive medical needs, such as requiring daily injections or feeding tubes.

Adult residential care facilities are a higher level of care than assisted living. It’s usually the next step when someone requires more supervision and attention. Their care services typically include:

• A private or shared room
• Assistance with toileting, bathing, and dressing
• Medication management
• Custodial care including laundry and housekeeping
• Home-cooked meals
• Transportation
• Planning activities

What the Atmosphere Is Like

A residential care facility is usually quieter than an assisted living facility and offers a smaller, home-like setting for seniors.

These care facilities typically are located in larger neighborhood homes and are equipped to care for a small number of residents, usually between 2 and 10. Limited medical care may be offered, but it’s not generally a focus in this type of senior living.

Available Staffing

A residential care facility’s family-like atmosphere is helped by a high staff-to-client ratio, which is usually higher than in nursing homes or assisted living communities. The staff-to-resident ratio can vary from 1:3 to 1:6.