COVID-19 confinement

Re “Hampton Roads nursing homes begin easing restrictions on residents’ socializing” (Aug. 25): After checking nursing homes across the Peninsula and reading the article by Dave Ress, I am compelled to point out what is actually occurring at the Bayside of Poquoson.

It never had any occurrence of COVID-19. Well done. However, the cost to the residents has been significant. My friend is not allowed out of their room, nor allowed to go outside. It is now six months of confinement. A recent scheduled, weekly through-the-door visit policy has just been started, something they call “window visits” to the media. The main contact with family up to now has been virtual, and window visits have never been allowed. (I was scolded like a child for attempting to visit in this manner.). While cautions need to be respected, Bayside is going overboard by keeping residents restricted to their rooms. The facility campus lacks a courtyard, but they have outdoor areas isolated from the public where the patients would be safe to enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Other homes that also lack courtyards are allowing residents to sit outside, and families to have drive-by parades.

These types of activities would go a long way in improving the obvious depression being displayed by my friend. Poquoson is one of the areas least affected by the virus. As other nursing homes across the Peninsula are expanding ways for family visits, Bayside has taken an approach that is harming residents’ well-being. It is time for that to change.

Anthony Fortunato, Newport News