New bill would change the way nursing homes operate during pandemic

The proposed legislation would allow nursing home and skilled care residents to designate an essential person to help with their care.

News 12 Staff

Sep 15, 2020, 11:50 AM

Updated 1,481 days ago

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The proposed legislation would allow nursing home and skilled care residents to designate an essential person to help with their care.
A new bill is being discussed due to the major impact COVID-19 has had on nursing homes
The proposed legislation would allow nursing home and skilled care residents to designate an essential person to help with their care.
The person would have to go through testing and health screenings just like staff members and could aid the resident with personal visits, feeding, and other services.
Family members say it would make a big difference. “At this age, if they don't have any stimulation, they atrophy, their minds go.” says Harry Koslow Merrick. “They didn't die from COVID, thank God, but they will die from this isolation and loneliness,” says Cynthia Hertz Baldwin.
The bill is being discussed in committee up in Albany.