Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing of Central Queens on How Safe it is to Visit Relatives.
- By Ady Fox
- •
- 05 Jun, 2020

As of June, Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing of Central Queens and other skilled nursing facilities in the Tri-State Area are prohibited from accepting visitors, but many are wondering since some restrictions are being lifted, is it now safe to visit family and friends, especially elderly ones who may live alone?
Studies show that nearly a quarter of all adults 65 and older not living in senior communities like nursing homes suffer from isolation and loneliness. This pandemic has brought that issue to the forefront.
The main question is, is there a safe way to conduct visits without putting ourselves or our family members — including high-risk ones — in danger of contracting coronavirus?
Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing of Central Queens helps to address that issue with these three points.
Risk vs. Reward
We have flattened the curve, but the dangers surrounding COVID-19 are still out there, and statistics show that many cases are asymptomatic. If you have been taking precautions (practicing good social distancing, wearing masks in public, feel healthy), it may be safe to conduct a small gathering, but the risk will not be zero. Here are things you can do to reduce the risk.1. Meet Outdoors
Research is showing that it’s tough to pass the virus in outdoor situations, so take advantage of the warm weather and meet outside.
2. Keep Your Space and Don’t Share Anything
You should still follow social distancing protocols with people outside your home, and if you’re serving food from shared dishes or platters, consider having plastic serving utensils and cups so no one has to touch the same things.
3. Wear Protective Gear
Everyone involved should wear a mask, and you can also consider wearing glasses or sunglasses to keep your eyes protected. Do not touch your eyes or face, use hand sanitizer as soon as you leave, and wash your hands when you get home.
