Lessons Learned
Using lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, we can move forward to create a better future for the people working and living in nursing homes.
When reflecting on how the COVID-19 pandemic may have affected your particular community, keep these factors in mind:
A disaster, such as a health pandemic, can adversely affect survivors and responders with post-traumatic stress disorder. Social supports, exercise, and mental wellness practices can increase resilience among nursing home staff and residents (Florida State University, 2022).
Natural disasters and other major disruptive events often exacerbate existing inequities. Pressure to recover quickly can leave people and groups behind. Some groups may have less capacity to cope and recover (Florida State University, 2022).
Accurate, timely information and pro-active regular contact with residents and family members can reduce anxiety and promote healing (University of California San Francisco, 2020).
During times of distress, consider how activities, chaplain services, social services and all teams can work to buffer stress and enhance protective factors for residents by emphasizing supportive relationships, encouraging regular physical activity, protecting quality sleep, leaning into mindfulness and guided soothing practices like breathing (University of California San Francisco, 2020).