October 28, 2020 Washington, DC – Statement from Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO, LeadingAge, the association of nonprofit providers of aging services, including nursing homes, on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ distribution of $333 million in first-round performance payments to over 10,000 nursing homes nationwide:

“We know that nursing homes in communities with high infection rates are more susceptible to COVID infections. Today’s HHS announcement shows us that over three-quarters of eligible nursing homes beat those odds.

In August and September, 10,631 had lower rates of infection than the community around them. And HHS reports that 1,200 fewer people died in nursing homes in September than in August.

This is a testament to the perseverance and commitment of nursing homes to ensuring residents’ well-being under tremendously challenging circumstances. With much-needed financial support, HHS is acknowledging these heroic efforts. We appreciate that, as will our members who receive funds.

Despite these improvements, older adults in nursing homes — and all care settings — continue to be under threat from this pandemic. This new reporting suggests that nursing homes could protect even more residents and care workers with additional help and resources.

With a rising count of over 60,000 nursing home deaths to-date, this is no time to declare victory and walk away.”

We represent more than 5,000 aging-focused organizations that touch millions of lives every day. Alongside our members and 38 state partners, we address critical issues by blending applied research, advocacy, education, and community-building. We bring together the most inventive minds in our field to support older adults as they age wherever they call home. We make America a better place to grow old. For more information: www.leadingage.org.