As the coronavirus surges around the country, thousands of workers in nursing homes and assisted living centers are watching cases rise in long-term care facilities with a sense of dread. Many of these workers struggle with grief over the suffering they’ve witnessed, both at work and in their communities. Some of these workers have been infected with the coronavirus and recovered physically but not emotionally.

Since the start of the pandemic, more than 616,000 residents and employees of long-term care facilities have been struck by COVID-19, and just over 91,000 have died as the coronavirus has invaded nearly 23,000 facilities. At least 1,000 of those deaths represent certified nursing assistants, nurses and other people who work in institutions that care for older adults according to Harold Pollack, a professor at the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago.

Sadly, there is no answer to the pain and uncertainty we are experiencing. Our caregivers are in a constant battle just to maintain life, with little time to improve the overall quality of life for their residents. We can’t say enough about the sacrifice these workers have made and the toll this will have on their overall well-being. Take a moment during this holiday season to really recognize your staff; remember, kind words are appreciated more than a frozen turkey. Take time, share the love, and always remember the reason for the season.

Stay the course, stay strong, stay well, mask up, and stay tuned!