COVID-19 Update for June 29, 2021 – Long-Term Care Lifting Some Restrictions July 7
Long-Term Care Lifting Some Restrictions July 7
In his first press conference as Minister of Long-Term Care, Rod Phillips announced long-term care homes will begin easing COVID-19 restrictions early next month, including lifting limits on outdoor and indoor gatherings.
Starting July 7, LTC residents will be able to have as many designated caregivers as they need, so long as public health guidelines are maintained. Residents will be permitted to gather with up to 10 people outdoors and up to two visitors, plus two caregivers indoors.
Personal care services such as hairdressers will also be allowed entry into long-term care homes, while restrictions will ease on dining and social activities, including singing, dancing, and off-site excursions. Visitors must still complete mandatory screening upon entry and follow all safety measures for the duration of their visit.
Phillips said implementing these changes was only made possible by continued vaccination efforts, as the province moves forward in the Roadmap to Reopen framework. To date, 99 per cent of long-term care residents are fully immunized, and nearly 85 per cent of staff have received both shots.