The recent third wave of the pandemic took its toll on nursing homes across the state according to new data from AARP.
State Director Denise Botcher said from December 21st to January 17th 347 residents died of COVID, and 1,521 residents tested positive.
“As you see the community spread of the virus across the state that also impacts the nursing home community,” said Botcher.
1,391 staff also tested positive during that time.
Nearly a year into the pandemic 15 percent of all nursing homes still don’t have a one-week supply of PPE. Botcher said that can be very dangerous.
“And we know how important it is that we equip our nursing homes with medical-grade PPE so they can protect the nursing home residents,” said Botcher.
36 percent of facilities reported staffing shortages during this period as well. Botcher said staffing issues have long plagued the industry.
“But we also know how important it is for trained staff to be there day in and day out to provide the protection that these residents deserve,” said Botcher.
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