coronavirus nursing homes

Governor also announcing today...restricted visitation at state- run nursing homes and long-term care facilities...since seniors are among the most vulnerable to the virus.

The state is strongly urging privately-run facilities to do the same.

Abc 36's alexus larson went to a local assisted living facility...that says it started restricting visitors even before the governor recommended it.

"on monday, sayre christian village decided to restrict visitors to protect their residents.

That means, if you do not work here, you can't get through these doors and that includes me."

Nat i had to interview c-e-o karen venis...outside.

"it means no visitors.

Obviously we're still allowing folks that are necessary to come to our facility to provide service to our residents."

Venis says the decision to restrict visitors was to protect the people who live here.

She says... she's relieved the governor is encouraging all nursing homes and assisted living facilities to do the same.

"i applaud his decision 100%."

The governor and health officials have been saying seniors, especially over the age of 60 are the most vulnerable.

Of the six positive cases in the state - half are over 60.

Venis says nearly all of her 375 residents are over that age too... but they haven't seen anyone with symptoms. "our concern with our campus is that we serve the elderly."

In addition to the visitor restrictions... their campus is screening every person living and working there.

Staff is also cleaning the campus regularly.

"it smells pretty good in there."

While restrictions are in place... venis says they are finding ways for residents to still talk and see their loved ones.

"we are offering facetime, skype."

"sayre christian village can't say how long these visitor restrictions are going to be in place.

All it can say is it's watching the virus one day at a time.

Reporting in lexingotn, alexus larson, abc 36 news."

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