The White House has released guidelines for states to reopen their businesses, while relaxing social distancing measures. Argentum President and CEO James Balda said he was thankful that the plan includes recommendations for senior living. But he expressed concern that a shortage of tests and equipment could put residents and employees at risk.
He noted that until a vaccine is found, “it is critical that significant efforts are undertaken to ensure sufficient PPE and rapid testing is widely available.”
Balda said it’s also important to note that normal community operations were paused early in the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The White House’s plan recommends continuing that pause until phase three; that underscores the critical need to secure added funding and resources for our communities. We’ll continue to see costs rise steeply during this time as we continue to care for the nation’s most vulnerable seniors,” he added. The new guidelines do not specify deadlines or a particular date for reopening. Rather, they describe three graduated phases for loosening restrictions.
