Yes, staff members in assisted living facilities are required to wear masks during COVID-19. Staff members may wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) facemasks or cloth face coverings, depending on their roles.  

Cloth masks aren’t as protective as PPE, but they do cover the mouth and nose, limiting the spread of nasal and oral droplets between people. In some cases, staff members that need PPE as opposed to cloth masks may be reusing PPE due to shortages. CDC guidance for assisted living facilities does allow for these measures when PPE is in short supply. 

Facemasks and cloth masks are both vital in reducing the spread of infection. In some cases, assisted living staff may also use respirators, an even more protective device worn on the face. This is most likely to occur in situations where there must be very close contact between staff and a resident, especially if the resident is sick.

COVID-19 Update: With social distancing and stay-at-home orders, many seniors are struggling with loneliness and isolation. We’ve developed a list of products that caregivers or seniors can purchase to help older adults stay happy, healthy and connected, whether they are aging in place at home or in an assisted living community.

Additional Coronavirus FAQs