WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: This narrative review examined New York state regulation and guidance related to COVID-19 in AL communities from March 2020 to December 2022. Early in the pandemic, strict lockdowns were put in place; then, the vaccine was authorized and implemented during phased reopening of communities. About 90% of New York AL residents were vaccinated by early 2021. As communities reopened, booster shots were required to keep residents protected, especially with new COVID-19 variants. These regulatory efforts were crucial in keeping vulnerable AL residents safe, but they led to social isolation and other psychological impacts; this highlights the complexity of AL regulatory responses in emergency situations.
Public Health Response to SARS-CoV-2 in Assisted Living Facilities in New York State: March 2020-December 2022
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: This narrative review examined New York state regulation and guidance related to COVID-19 in AL communities from March 2020 to December 2022. Early in the pandemic, strict lockdowns were put in place; then, the vaccine was authorized and implemented during phased reopening of communities. About 90% of New York AL residents were vaccinated by early 2021. As communities reopened, booster shots were required to keep residents protected, especially with new COVID-19 variants. These regulatory efforts were crucial in keeping vulnerable AL residents safe, but they led to social isolation and other psychological impacts; this highlights the complexity of AL regulatory responses in emergency situations.
