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BY ETHAN REDDISH

The holidays have always been a time of fellowship and festivities. For those living in nursing homes and assisted living centers, it’s typically a time where they get to see their families. However, like every other aspect of life, COVID-19 has had a noticeable impact. The various nursing homes and living facilities of Bainbridge have come up with their own ways of dealing with COVID and how they handle visits during the holidays.

“Our residents do have the option to leave the facility to eat with their family,” William Jones, executive director of Riverside Place said, “but they have to do a COVID test and quarantine when they get back.”

Porch visits are also allowed at Riverside, which has, as of the writing of this article, had no cases.

According to Willow Ridge Personal Care Home, they are only allowing window visits and limited approved inside visits. However, the staff did provide a large Thanksgiving dinner for the residents, with workers playing games of dominoes with them as well.

Bainbridge Health and Rehab has been allowing outdoor visits, albeit with masks, social distancing and staff monitoring. They have also held activities in the spirit of the season like Willow Ridge, with residents painting Christmas ornaments two weeks ago.

While the coronavirus may not be as much of a concern to young and healthy people, it has proven to be especially dangerous to the elderly, and if let loose in nursing homes like in New York, can have especially devastating results. Even if one may be lax in precautions elsewhere, it’s crucial to practice them around those that are vulnerable, and contact your loved one’s nursing home or assisted living facility for guidelines before scheduling a visit.