For more than a year strict visiting restrictions have been in place at seniors’ homes to help keep COVID-19 at bay, but not anymore.
As of July 19, residents can now visit freely with loved ones as the provincial government lifted most restrictions that had been in place at long-term care homes and assisted living facilities.
“I’m anxious to have my daughter be able to come in and spend more time with me here, a more one-on-one relationship like we used to have,” says Jene, a resident of Ross Place in Victoria.
As a result of the restrictions being lifted, families will no longer have to schedule visits in advance, and the limit on the number of visitors in a room has been lifted. All activities and social events can resume and masks are no longer mandatory in rooms for fully vaccinated guests but must be worn in common areas.
However, visitors who haven’t gotten both doses must wear a mask at all times.
“I haven’t seen family for years, they all live far away and they’re coming here this summer. I’m really looking forward to it, it’s been tough for everyone but when we get older we miss them even more,” says another resident at Ross Place, Judith.
The team saying residents are eager to get back to doing more of the things they love.
“The beauty about living in a seniors community is that sense of community and connection, residents are now feeling comfortable being together and rebuilding from what has been a very difficult 16 months or so,” says Andrew Trinder, the director of operations at Ross Place.
In spite of these relaxed rules, visitors will still be screened for symptoms when they arrive and they’ll be asked to provide proof of vaccination.
Visiting hours may still be dependent on a care home’s staffing and rules may change if an outbreak is declared, according to the province.
Hannah Lepine
