July 18, 2020

So far a total of 7 residents have tested postive for Covid19 on my mom's floor. 2 of those 7 have been relocated to nursing homes. Of the remaining 5, 4 are mobile. My mom's floor is kind of U shaped, so they've cordoned off the last section for the 5 positive residents. Caregivers are not working with both positive and negative residents, just one or the other. Our favorite care giver has agreed to work with the Covid residents, so she won't be taking care of my mom for the time being. So far my mom is negative, but they keep testing everyone so you never know. I feel sorry for the caregivers. I'm not sure what they are paid, but I know it's crappy. Their work is difficult both physically and emotionally. And now they have lots of additional cleaning protocols that have to be done constantly. So far they're not receiving any hazard pay for working with Covid patients. I think I'll drop off some pizza or treats or something for them this week. Meanwhile I return to work in 10 days. I'm less hopeful that Easter Seals will reopen soon since the governor has closed schools in all the counties on the Covid watch list. I did check into another facility that I toured last year. They're open, and they open for longer hours each day, so that could work for John and me. However, they're quite a bit more expensive - $2500 per month for full time day care. I'd rather avoid changing locations because it would be upsetting to John. Plus we love Easter Seals. But maybe in the short term...