Weakley County Nursing and Rehab adjusting to health pandemic

By Christian Ashlar

Press Reporter

Some of the hardest hit in this pandemic are the older among the population. Not just from a physical point of view, but from a psychological standpoint, they are the among those to feel the negative effects of social distancing. They are separated from loved ones, family, and often, one another. For those in nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities, this isolation can often be worse.  Care providers at the Weakley County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Dresden are reportedly doing all they can to prevent this feeling of isolation with the residents. While observing the mandatory precautions, the WCRNC is doing what it can to make sure their residents are safe and making the most of this situation. “We’ve never had to deal with something like this at this level,” administrator David McBride said. “Our providers are doing all they can,” he added. This means keeping residents in their room, keeping family members out of these rooms and keeping the rooms clean. In addition, the employees are also monitored for any signs of the illness before coming in to work. Designated areas have been set up within the facility for those residents returning from hospital visits. Precautions for safety are being taken whenever and wherever possible.  Team members are also providing for the residents’ mental well-being. In-room activities such as Bingo are played on a regular basis, with the residents participating from their room. Numbers are often called from the hallway outside and residents check off their cards from the safety of their room.  To combat the loneliness, care providers often visit the residents, taking a little extra time with them. Visits with family can still take place, but it has to be through the glass of the front door. Phone calls are to residents are welcome and encouraged, as the residents have their own lines. Technology also factors in, as residents can utilize social media to connect with family and friends outside of the facility through Facebook and Skype with the help of care providers. Even in the face of a pandemic, they still find ways to stay connected to their loved ones.  “My hat goes off to all of our providers,” McBride said. Including all of the staff of the WCRNC, he added, “They’ve been wonderful through all of this.”  It requires the full cooperation of the entire facility to bring the residents through this time. Weakley County still rises to the occasion.