older woman wiping her nose with a tissue

COVID-19 is a coronavirus that has made more than 87,000 people sick worldwide. The elderly are the most likely to die from the virus. So it’s hardly a surprise that many senior living and care operators are on a state of high alert.

Concerns hardly were assuaged by news that the nation’s first reported death caused by the virus took place at a Washington state long-term care facility. Much of the prep work taking place resembles flu prep, but at an escalated level.

Nationwide, operators are stocking up on masks and other protective gear, updating emergency procedures and poring over public health guidance. Federal officials are recommending that workers and others take commonsense precautions, including frequent hand-washing, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, covering coughs and staying home when sick.

On Monday afternoon, AARP sent a letter to the Senate Committee on Appropriations and the House Committee on Appropriations urging Congress to immediately enact legislation providing ample resources to fight coronavirus.

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