It is hard to imagine the effect that Covid-19 has had on our residents in Long Term Care Facilities, as being without family contact can cause unexpected changes in long term care residents. Hopefully, with the Covid-19 vaccine, we will be able to resume visitations with our loved ones soon. Here are some things you should be observant of when visiting your loved one again.

Observe your loved one’s overall general appearance and demeanor, has there been significant weight loss or gain? Have they received routine personal care with nails trimmed, hair washed, and teeth brushed? Does the resident have on dentures, hearing aids, or glasses if needed? Does their skin appear healthy, free from pressure sores or unusual bruising?

Remember to observe the resident’s mental and emotional appearance as well; do they appear confused or withdrawn or have their communication skills diminished? Encourage them to talk about how they are feeling, what activities they have been participating in, and how they have been sleeping. You can ask if they have been tested for Covid-19 regularly or received their Covid-19 vaccine; by this time, residents who opted for the vaccine should have received it.

Observe the resident’s environment as well by looking around the facility; is it dean and free from odors? Is the staff wearing proper masks, gowns, or gloves? Are they practicing proper physical distancing and handwashing protocols?

Remember you can ask the staff questions and do not be afraid to let them know of any concerns you or the resident have. If you feel the resident is not receiving proper care or that the resident needs help having their concerns heard, call your Ombudsman Supervisor. The Long Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents’ rights and mediates on residents’ behalf to help resolve concerns. Call 405.273.6410 ext.127 for Cherry Love (Hughes, Pottawatomie & Seminole counties) or ext. 133 for Denise Luzmoor (Lincoln, Okfuskee, Pawnee, and Payne counties).