As part of a 21News 6:40 Special, Ursel McElroy the Director of the Ohio Department of Aging spoke on how those living in long term care facilities are being affected by COVID-19.

Current guidelines permit outdoor visitation with those in long term care facilities as of July 20th.

Nursing homes have also been given the directive to monitor community spread of COVID-19 to contain the spread of the virus and monitor whether or not relaxing of health precautions is appropriate for that facility.

Screenings, masks, social distancing and contact tracing are also all part of safe visitations at long term care facilities.

McElroy says long term care facilities are operating with a sense of balance and a need to weigh the impact of the spread of the virus and quality of life with those living in long term care facilities 

"Many older adults have experienced symptoms of loneliness, isolation decline in physical health and behavioral expressions, and sadly many people have died without having family members nearby," said McElroy.

The Staying Connected Program also is there to give a check-in on wellness services for these older adults and connects them to case managers in the Department of Aging to help those individuals, getting them the help they may need.

McElroy also said those participating in that program can also simply reach out to have a friendly call with someone in the department if they also feel the need.

Full information for the Staying Connected Program is available at www.aging.ohio.gov.

"During this pandemic, it is going to take all of us to make it through this time, and as it relates to older adults. They rely on us to make it through as well. People need to remember to make a phone call, write a letter, and check up on your older loved ones to make sure they still feel connected during this time."

You can watch the full 6:40 Special interview with Ursel McElroy on the 21 News Facebook page.