During the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing home workers, assisted living staff, and family caregivers are proving themselves not just essential workers, but
frontline heroes.
From managing a virus that can be spread without symptoms, to dealing with a shortage adequate testing and PPE, to being forced to isolate residents from families and loved ones to reduce exposure, these challenges are immense, unprecedented, and heartbreaking.
We are realizing more than ever before that for our best teams, this work is a calling. There are so many amazing stories of dedication, sacrifice, and compassion by long-term care professionals who are going above and beyond to ensure the safety, health, and happiness of residents during this unprecedented time.
These individuals are saving lives and they are indeed heroes.
From the dietary to housekeeping staff, nursing assistants to activity coordinators, rehabilitation staff to administrators, and everyone in between, these dedicated employees number approximately 30,000 strong here in Maryland. And we are thankful for each and every one.
As we navigate these uncharted waters of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important we recognize that we are all in this together and that
together we are strong. Even though we are facing unprecedented and immense challenges, we will all get through this by working together, trusting in one another, and continuing to help others stay safe and well.
To all the employees of skilled nursing centers and assisted living campuses:
remember that you are saving lives and that there will be an end to this crisis. Already, we are beginning to see residents and staff members recovering from COVID-19.
We are grateful for all the nursing home, assisted living, and family caregiver healthcare heroes who are truly working hard and doing all they can to save lives.
THANK YOU!
