Communication Technology Improved Staff, Resident, and Family Interactions in a Skilled Nursing Home During COVID-19

Long-term care (LTC) settings have implemented family visitor restrictions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic that may exacerbate isolation and loneliness among residents,1,2 which have been linked to worse health outcomes such as increased risk for cardiovascular disease and depression.3 In addition, visitor restrictions have been associated with increased stress and anxiety among family members.4 Incorporating communication technology, such as tablets and laptops, for residents to interact virtually with their families has been shown to increase social support and well-being.