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There has perhaps never been a more appropriate time to praise area assisted living facilities, long-term care centers and health care workers for the important work they are doing every day.

We are living in the midst of a global pandemic with a virus that has proven dangerous to all, but particularly the elderly. I am especially thankful for all that long-term care facilities do to care for and protect this important segment of the population.

My maternal grandmother is 91 and currently resides in a nursing home in Windsor, Virginia. As I reflect on my visits to her, I think in gratitude about the good care she receives and the work of the dedicated health care providers employed there.

In Farmville, The Woodland is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The facility has expanded its services significantly over the years.

For now, visitation to residents of The Woodland, and facilities like it, has been restricted to help protect the residents from becoming infected with COVID-19.

This is a time that highlights the immense trust many families have put in long-term care staff, and that staff is working hard to take care of residents. Stories we hear from other areas around the country of families not being with their loved ones are heart-wrenching and illustrate the terrible effects of this disease. At The Woodland, the staff is establishing video conferencing technology that will help residents interact digitally with their loved ones during this time.

The Prince Edward County Board of Supervisors took a moment during its March 10 meeting to read and then unanimously adopt a resolution commemorating The Woodland’s 50th anniversary. The resolution highlighted The Woodland for its noteworthy record of service and for enhancing the quality of life of the area’s senior citizens.

To the Woodland staff and all those who don masks and personal protective equipment each day to battle the coronavirus, I say, thank you for all you have done and will continue to do until this time of crisis passes us by.

TITUS MOHLER is the sports editor for The Farmville Herald and Farmville Newsmedia LLC. His email address is Titus. Mohler@FarmvilleHerald.com.