How Can You be Sure ALF’s Are Safe During This Pandemic

Donna Nichols • August 13, 2020

With the arrival of COVID-19 came rampant cases in nursing homes, which in turn made the assisted living communities concerned.

The assisted living, independent living, and memory care communities stepped up their guidelines immediately and have been able to keep their residents safe.

All safety protocols were put into place and carried out without hesitation. This enabled them to contain the spread of the virus. The communities are still abiding by those protocols and are NOT slacking on them to ensure the virus does not spread throughout the center.

Just look at the hugging wall from a local Florida Assisted Living Facility. These communities are constantly coming up with solutions everyday to ensure your loved ones are protected.

What are the differences between a nursing home and other senior communities? Nursing homes offer extensive care, similar to the care received in a hospital. Nursing homes also provide skilled nursing care 24/7 as their residents usually have more care needs. The reason nursing homes have such an outbreak of COVID-19 cases, is due to the elderly people being more susceptible to the virus. Their immune systems are already compromised.

Independent living communities are for people who are still independent, but don’t want to care for a home, lawn maintenance, etc. They can prepare their own meals or share meals in a communal type area, some of them have golf and a pool to enjoy, along with other activities. They still drive and continue an independent lifestyle.

Assisted living communities are for people who need some help with activities of daily living. Residents may need medication management, assistance with dressing, bathing, transportation, keeping them safe from COVID in a secure environment. These communities also have daily activities, such as bingo, dancing, and much more.

Memory care homes can be part of a larger community and they care for those with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. They have trained staff and specific activities to accommodate their needs. They are secure to ensure their safety.

So, how do you know if assisted living communities are safe?

There is no sure-fire way to be 100% positive of anything, but some may say they are safer in an assisted living than at home. They have very strict protocols that you probably don’t have at home, they practice social distancing , which you probably don’t do at home, they wear face masks and limit gatherings , which is probably not done at the home.

Assisted living communities are doing a great job protecting their residents and keeping them social and happy!!!

February and the Heart

By Donna Nichols • February 2, 2026
Small Habits That Make a Big Difference February brings a soft reminder to pause and check in with the most loyal companion we have — our heart. It beats for us without asking, carrying us through decades of joy, loss, laughter, and change. American Heart Month invites us to honor that steady work with simple habits that help us feel stronger, more energized, and more connected. The Power of Small Steps Heart health doesn’t require dramatic resolutions or strict routines. In fact, the most meaningful changes are often the smallest ones — the ones we can weave into our day without feeling overwhelmed. A ten‑minute walk after breakfast. Choosing water before coffee. Stretching your arms and shoulders while waiting for the kettle to boil. Turning on a favorite song and letting your body sway a little. These tiny choices add up. They support circulation, boost mood, and remind us that caring for ourselves is still possible at every age. Movement That Meets You Where You Are Not everyone can take long walks or join a fitness class — and that’s okay. Gentle movement counts. • Marching your feet while seated • Rolling your shoulders to release tension • Standing up and sitting down a few times to strengthen your legs • Reaching toward the ceiling to open your chest Every bit of movement helps the heart do its job with less strain. Food That Loves You Back Heart‑healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Think in terms of adding rather than restricting. • Add a handful of berries to breakfast • Add a few colorful vegetables to lunch • Add a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for healthy fats • Add one extra glass of water during the day Small additions feel doable — and they nourish the body in ways you can feel. Connection Is Heart Medicine, Too Loneliness can weigh on the heart just as much as physical strain. February is a wonderful time to reach out. Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. Share a memory with a grandchild. Join a community activity, even if just for an hour. Let someone know you’re thinking of them. Human connection is one of the most powerful heart‑protective habits we have. A Month to Celebrate Your Strength Your heart has carried you through so much — every milestone, every challenge, every moment of joy. This month is not about perfection. It’s about honoring your resilience and choosing one or two small habits that make you feel good. A healthier heart doesn’t happen overnight. It happens in the quiet, steady choices we make each day. And February is the perfect time to begin.

Connection Is the Resolution That Lasts

By Donna Nichols • January 12, 2026
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A Fresh Start Doesn’t Mean Starting Over

By Donna Nichols • January 9, 2026
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