Nursing homes in Johnson County are restricting visitors due to a viral pandemic, which made its way to Johnson County this week.
COVID-19, more commonly known as coronavirus, is a respiratory disease that is especially deadly for senior citizens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Christina House, an assisted living facility in Franklin, has restricted visitors and volunteers since Monday, a policy that will continue until further notice. Staff members who work at the facility are being screened. Those staff members must fill out a questionnaire asking them about any international travel, as well as acknowledging if they have any symptoms of the virus, including coughing, fever or shortness of breath. All staff are subject to temperature checks, said Hill Smith, executive director.
Otterbein SeniorLife, also in Franklin, has the same restrictions and screening procedures in place, which took effect Thursday. As with Christina House, essential non-staff members, such as doctors and nurses, are still allowed in. The health of elderly residents is of utmost importance, said Robert Newcomer, executive director.
“We care for some of the most vulnerable residents that can be affected by COVID-19, so that’s very important,” Newcomer said.
Franklin Meadows, a senior living community, laid out restrictions in a news release Thursday.
The retirement home will also screen staff and other essential personnel. It is restricting visitors and offering phone calls, texts and video chats as alternatives, according to the news release.
“The health and wellness of our residents and employees are our highest priorities,” the news release said. “The threat posed by COVID-19 for the elderly is particularly significant as stated by expert epidemiologists across the world.”
