As the COVID-19 pandemic has swept across the country, we have seen that nursing home residents have been particularly vulnerable. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted the public early on that those aged 65 and over, as well as those who have chronic health conditions such as diabetes, lung diseases, and heart disease, are most at risk of becoming seriously ill due to coronavirus. Due to this, Governor Henry McMaster ordered that all nursing home visitations end until further notice.
Since the governor’s March 13 declaration, those who have loved ones in nursing homes have understandably been upset. Not being able to visit with family and friends is incredibly difficult. However, most people understand that this is the only way to control major outbreaks of COVID-19 from occurring within these facilities. Unfortunately, the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has reported that approximately 23% of all COVID-19 deaths in the state have happened to residents or workers at long-term care facilities.
Alternatives to in-person visits
As you may have seen on the news, many people have turned to alternative methods to speak to and see their loved ones. Technology has been a major factor in these situations. If your loved one is in a nursing home, and they have access to a computer or smartphone, you should consider using FaceTime, Zoom, or other types of video chat to see and talk to your loved one. While nursing home staff may be busy, you should ask them to help your loved one use this technology if they have the time to do so.
You may need help from an attorney
If you suspect that your loved one has been abused neglected in a nursing home in the Greenville area, please contact an attorney immediately. The Dan Pruitt Law Firm will investigate every aspect of your claim to ensure your loved one is treated fairly and compensated for what happened. You can contact our Greenville nursing home attorney for a free consultation today and let us help determine what steps to take next.