Within Florida, efforts are underway to administer the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to seniors over the age of 65, health care workers, and those working in long-term care homes. These vaccines have been sent to all 67 counties, to vaccinate those who are considered part of the top-priority group—including seniors—by the end of February.
While COVID-19 related news is always updating, here is a quick guide on what is expected over the coming weeks:
When will seniors receive the vaccine?
Some senior Floridians have received doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in late December. An executive order from Gov. DeSantis laid the groundwork mandating that those 65 and older be assigned to the first vaccine priority group. So, now it’s time for long-term care staff to begin scheduling appointments for their residents to receive the vaccine. Each county has different requirements for scheduling an appointment, so it is recommended to contact the County Health Department to find out if the individual qualifies, and what paperwork will need to be filled out.
Florida’s vaccine plan also mentions the state’s goal of immunizing all Floridians who wish to get vaccinated. Those within the initial priority group—including seniors and care home staff—are forecasted to be by the end of February.
How will those in long-term care get the vaccine?
CVS and Walgreens have been contracted by the federal government to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. There will be no cost to long-term care staff and residents wishing to get vaccinated at these locations. There is also work being done by the Florida Department of Health to further assist long-term care home staff in helping to vaccinate their most vulnerable as quickly as possible.
When can they get the COVID-19 vaccine?
The best way to find out when a staff member or resident will be able to get the vaccine would be to contact the local health department. Staff can also follow updates about vaccine availability on the Florida Department of Health’s website.
Frontline workers’ safety is a priority.
When seniors get vaccinated, they are protecting not only themselves but the care-home workers who take care of them. Staff may also be immune-compromised or suffer from severe symptoms too if they contract COVID-19 from a resident. Receiving the COVID-19 vaccine ensures immunity from a potentially life-threatening disease and improves the quality of life and safety for those who live and work within long-term care.
Companies across the senior living industry are devising ways to help seniors and staff during the pandemic. At Innovation Senior Living, our primary focus is on the safety and quality of life of seniors and long-term care staff.
Check out our website for more information on how we’re responding to COVID-19 with updates from our Founder and CEO, Pilar Carvajal.
