Many facilities appear to be latching onto the caveat that they should only reopen if they feel safe enough to do so. That leaves a lot of leeway for facilities to keep their doors locked, said Melissa Seifert, associate state director of AARP Michigan.
“There was an executive order saying that (the state would) encourage in-person visits if they are able to do so. That ‘able to do so’ is a very broad definition.”
A few places are getting creative, employing hugging stations or visiting booths to help alleviate the isolation and loneliness felt by residents. But some argue more is needed.