Dr. Bonnie Henry acknowledged how tough the COVID-19 pandemic has been for patients in care homes, such as those with dementia. (Gov't of B.C.)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

long-term care

Visits to long-term care homes now allowed with restrictions

Jun 30, 2020 | 12:23 PM

NANAIMO — A sigh of relief for families missing their loved ones in long-term care homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced restrictions barring visits to long-term care homes are being rescinded slowly and carefully as of Tuesday, June 30.

“To start, residents will be able to have a single designated visitor in a single designated visiting area in each facility. We are going to start slowly and as we expect things will progress well and we will expand these activities.”

Though visits are now allowed, many restrictions are still in place.

Any facility currently in an outbreak of COVID-19 can’t be visited. Designated staff will be in place screening every visitor.

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Anyone visiting a loved one must bring and wear a mask.

“There have been many dark, anxious days but today is a brighter day for us all. Easing restrictions in phase two and phase three here in B.C. has been about finding balance. Now the timing is right to do the same for our long-term care and assisted living facilities,” Dr. Henry said.

COVID-19 related safeguards remaining in place at all seniors’ care homes will be applied as long as necessary and reviewed to safely expand, Dr. Henry said.

“To all of the seniors and elders in our care home, thank you. This has been a difficult time for you being separated from the ones you love. For many people with things like dementia, it can be a very confusing and difficult time. You have shown resilience, determination and courage despite this challenge.”

Health minister Adrian Dix said $160 million is being provided to long-term care facilities to hire up to three full time staff to make sure the restrictions in place are followed.

As of Tuesday, June 30 there remains 131 total active or resolved cases of COVID-19 on Vancouver Island, with one active case.

No new fatalities or outbreaks were confirmed on Tuesday, with 12 new cases.

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