HOUSTON – Nursing homes account for nearly half of all COVID-related deaths in the U.S. No families or friends of any kind can be by their side. Abbott also required all residents and staff have access to COVID-19 testing. Despite it all, the Texas reopening guidelines state people are still asked to avoid nursing homes, state-supported living centers, assisted living facilities, or long-term care facilities. “Write a postcard, write a note, it will come to them in the mail,” Dr. Dyer recommended.