During these difficult times, AARP is working to make sure the voices and concerns of older New Yorkers continue to be heard on issues critical to their health, well-being and financial security. 

As part of AARP's effort, they have been promoting six questions to ask if someone has a loved one in a nursing home. In addition to providing six questions and encouraging people to ask them of their loved one’s nursing home, AARP also is asking people to take a moment to fill out a brief survey about how the nursing home answered the questions. AARP hopes the information collected will help to educate the public and policy makers.

• Has anyone in the nursing home tested positive for COVID-19? This includes residents, as well as staff or other vendors who may have been in the nursing home. The Governor has issued an executive order requiring that families of residents be notified within 24 hours if there are confirmed cases or deaths among residents but currently this is not required for staff or vendors.
• What is the nursing home doing to prevent infections? How are the nursing home staff being screened for COVID-19, especially when they leave and re-enter the home? What precautions are in place for residents who are not in private rooms?
• Does the nursing home staff have the personal protective equipment (PPE) – like masks, face shields, gowns, gloves – that they need to stay safe, and keep their patients safe? Have staff been given specific training on how to use this PPE? If no, what is the plan to obtain PPE?
• What is the nursing home doing to help residents stay connected with their families or other loved ones during this time? Do they help residents call loved ones by phone or video call? Will they set up a regular schedule for you to speak with your loved one?
• What is the plan for the nursing home to communicate important information to both residents and families on a regular basis? Will the nursing home be contacting you by phone or e-mail, and when?
• Is the nursing home currently at full staffing levels for nurses, aides, and other workers? What is the plan to make sure the needs of nursing home residents are met – like bathing, feeding, medication management, social engagement – if the nursing home has staffing shortages?