Families with loved ones in nursing homes dread updates about COVID-19 spread

So many families with loved ones in nursing homes are worried to get that phone call that a person living or working in the facility has tested positive for COVID-19.

That call came yesterday for those with family members at Caring Heights Community Care and Rehab in Coraopolis.

"She’s the rock of our family,” said Michelle Cozzo.

It was hard to hear for Cozzo, whose great aunt Theresa “DeeDee” Viziana is a resident at the nursing home. She’s 103 and her room is on the same wing as the resident who tested positive.

“She's actually being monitored herself every hour, just to make sure she doesn't develop any kind of symptoms or anything like that. It's very scary. Sorry,” Cozzo said.

The Cozzo family is not alone in that anxiety.

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"It was quite alarming, although I did have a feeling it was inevitable,” Lisa Smarra said.

Smarra got word when she stopped by to visit her dad outside his window.

"When I spoke to the director of nursing, she explained to me the person who tested positive was in isolation,” Smarra said.

Caring Heights would not comment on the positive test, other than to say, "the facility has acted in the best interests of its residents to promote their health, safety and welfare."

The families said they were told all residents are being monitored for symptoms and the facility was thoroughly cleaned.

"They fumigated all of the rooms of the residents,” Cozzo said.

Their loved ones are doing OK, but the families worry about them being alone at such a tough time.

"Yesterday when I left, I cried a little bit and I tried not, and he said, ‘I’ll be fine. I’ll see you in a couple of days,’” Smarra said.

"I don’t know if my Aunt Dee Dee will see this but we love you so much. I’m sorry. We love you so much and we can’t wait till we can come see you. Stay positive,” Cozzo said.

Nursing home hit hard amid coronavirus pandemic Nursing home hit hard amid coronavirus pandemic

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