Nearly 20% of Americans are caregivers and provide unpaid assistance to others, typically family members. Whether it be grocery store runs, transportation to doctor’s appointments, or supporting daily activities (e.g., dressing and bathing), caregivers provide immense emotional and physical support that is valued at over $450 billion per year.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on our daily activities, shuttering schools and businesses, and claiming a half million lives in the US to date. Unfortunately, the pandemic has disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, including seniors.

As families and friends gear up to celebrate the holiday season, many are taking COVID-19 tests to protect their loved ones. With more infectious breakthrough cases––through variants like the Omicron––increasing worldwide case numbers, regular testing, especially before social gatherings and travel, will play a vital role in lessening the spread of the virus.

The 2020-2021 flu season had a record low number of cases due to social distancing and mask-wearing requirements, with only 1,675 number of confirmed laboratory cases, the lowest on record. On average, the flu disproportionately impacts seniors with more than 70% of flu related deaths occurring in seniors.

The distribution of the COVID Vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna is excellent news for nursing homes and senior living communities whose residents and staff have been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus.

Tembo Health is partnering with nursing facilities to apply for funding for telehealth equipment through the FCC’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program. The COVID-19 Telehealth Program is a part of the March 2020 CARES Act in response to the public health emergency brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The outbreak of the Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) at a King County nursing home in Washington State has led to dozens of infections and a number of deaths, and has made infection control and preventive measures of utmost importance. In addition, some states (e.g., Rhode Island) are announcing policies to limit the number of visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities, including nursing homes