LTC Provider Associations Issue Letter on Public Health Safety Measures to Protect Older Adults
Wednesday, November 25, 2020
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Texas Long-Term Care Provider Associations Issue Letter on Public Health Safety Measures to Protect Older Adults
As Texans, we pride ourselves on being friendly and courteous, thus our state motto of Friendship. Fellowship and goodwill are part of our unique culture. We care for our friends and neighbors, those we know and those we don’t because we all
have one thing in common - we are Texans.
Friends and neighbors, on behalf of thousands of long term care communities caring for older adults, we are asking our fellow Texans for help. Across the nation, the coronavirus has killed more than 170,000 older adults--that’s four out every five
who have died from COVID. In Texas, those 65 and older account for 70% of all deaths. Families are dealing with fear, loneliness, and grief.
And it’s not over yet.
The worst pandemic in a century has now reached its darkest hour. What we do today will determine if we protect or endanger the lives of older Americans. We are writing to remind everyone that a few simple precautions can help ensure that you don’t put your older relatives and others in your community in danger.
When you are out of the house and with others, wear a mask and stay six feet apart. Also, don’t forget to wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds (or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol). We fully understand
that some people may not like these steps. Wearing a mask may not feel comfortable or attractive, and some people feel that masks infringe on their personal liberties. Staying socially distant feels isolating and inconvenient. More frequent hand-washing
may feel tiresome.
Please ask yourself: as COVID-19 surges, would you want your grandmother or grandfather to be exposed to the virus? How can you minimize the risk of COVID spread to protect your family and ensure a safer spring or summer?
This holiday season, give thanks to the older Texans that built our incredible state, and protected our country and freedoms. Each of us has the power to protect the older adults we love and those who live in our neighborhoods and communities.
Thank you for being a part of the solution. Working together, we can save lives.
Disease Control and Prevention.
LeadingAge Texas, Texas Health Care Association, and Texas Assisted Living Association are state associations representing independent living, assisted
living, and skilled nursing providers across Texas.
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