COVID-19 Vaccine for Seniors
Since the arrival of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines in the US, older adults, who have been disproportionately affected by the virus, have been among those first in line to receive them. Specifically, people aged 65 and older or those living in long-term care facilities are included in Phase 1 of the vaccination program.
At Tysons Woods Assisted Living, the safety and support of our residents is paramount. As a small assisted living facility, we are able to provide All-Inclusive Elder Care to our residents in Reston, VA. This includes transportation for those receiving the vaccine, as well as around-the-clock care with staff available onsite 24/7.
Below, we continue to discuss the vaccination process for seniors:
Preserving Quality of Life
While there is a consensus that the vaccine is universal and no patients should be excluded, it’s vital to take into account the goals of care for every patient when making decisions about who should be vaccinated, and when.
As mentioned previously, older adults over the age of 65 face a higher risk of death and prolonged suffering from symptoms of COVID-19. The infection tends to last longer in older patients due to their decreased ability to fight back and recover, which means longer hospital stays and a much higher risk of admittance to the intensive care unit.
Even for those in hospice, the vaccine will benefit their quality of life. The virus causes symptoms such as diarrhea, fatigue, confusion, fever, and shortness of breath that can bring great discomfort during a person’s last phase of life.
After vaccination, our residents remain in close contact with our medical staff to communicate how they’re feeling and monitor any expected symptoms from the vaccine, such as fever.
Safe Transportation
One of the hurdles many seniors face in getting the vaccines is a lack of easy and reliable transportation. At Tysons Woods, we provide residents with transportation to vaccine distribution centers, while following CDC guidelines to ensure their safety.
It’s important to note that after vaccination, it takes up to a few weeks for the body to build immunity, which means it’s possible for a person to become infected from exposure to the virus before or after the vaccine and still get sick.
In light of this, Tysons Woods continues to remain up-to-date with all CDC guidelines for assisted living homes.
Safe and Supportive All-Inclusive Elder Care in Reston, VA
At Tysons Woods, we like to call ourselves the “luxury bed and breakfast” of assisted living. With a 1:4 ratio of staff to residents, our smaller size allows us to provide personal, around-the-clock care for residents in an environment that is truly home. Our All-Inclusive Elder Care services are just that: all-inclusive. As your loved one’s care needs change, you won’t be faced with any hidden fees or upcharges, just the same exceptional standard of care. Contact our caregiving team today to learn more about what Tysons Woods has to offer.
