COVID-19 Effects On Carrollton’s Elderly Community

Increased security measures at Carrollton Nursing and Rehabilitation have left elderly patients in need of community support. The effects of COVID-19 have resulted in more precautionary policies within the facility to ensure the safety and health of their patients.

Because of these increases in security, patients have been unable to receive frequent visits from their family members and companions, creating an environment of enlarged isolation. In order to reduce isolation from their community, the residents of Carrollton Nursing and Rehabilitation would benefit from small, encouraging acts of support from Carrollton citizens. Carrollton Nursing and Rehabilitation’s Administrator Janet Fisher described the security measures that have been implemented since the introduction of the virus.

“Enhanced infection control precautions, restricting visitation and entry of people to the building and postponing or carefully limiting communal activities including social distancing have changed the lifestyles of the patients,” said Fisher. “The residents have had to adapt to changes but have overall done well.

“We have found that most of the residents appreciate the precautions we have taken in order to protect them,” continued Fisher.

Although the residents are grateful for the modifications, new restrictions bring feelings of isolation for the residents. The center provides outlets for residents struggling with the seclusion from their loved ones, but have still recognized emotional effects of the security measures.

 “Of course, the residents miss visitations with their family and friends,” said Fisher. “This has been a time like no other. The center combats this as best as we can with Facetime visits, window visits and phone calls to keep the residents in touch with their loved ones.”

While providing communication with their outwardly connections, the center has also implemented internal activities to support their residents.

 “Our activities department has modified their programs and provided a full calendar of events to keep the residents’ spirits up,” said Fisher. “If there’s a decline, whether it be emotional, mental or physical, we do offer essential visits for any resident that may require them. “We also encourage putting uplifting messages on posters and dropping them off at the front gate of the center,” continued Fisher. “We display the posters where the residents can see them and enjoy the well wishes and support of the community.”