April 1st was an eventful day for home care operators as it was the first day of care home visitation changes in British Columbia after the Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry relaxed restrictions in care homes to allow visitations in a way that ensures both the safety of care home residents and staff.
Delta Optimist published a story that shared the special day at Augustine House Society in Ladner, B.C.
Bob Cristofoli was the very first visitor who arrived at Augustine House to visit his dad, Reno. Reno is a resident in Haven House, the long-term care section of Augustine House. After many months of short visits with a sheet of Plexiglas between the two, Bob was elated to finally be able to hug his dad.
“Being able to witness Reno’s smile as he held his son’s hand was an honor,” says Jackie Reiners, Augustine House’s Executive Director. “Augustine House is excited about the changes to visits and outings, excited to facilitate families and residents reconnecting. This does, of course, increase risks to our community, but we are committed to working together with residents, families, and Fraser Health to reduce these risks through strong infection control practices.”
BC Care Providers Association and EngAge BC appreciates Augustine House and other home care operators across B.C. for working diligently to keep their workplace, care home residents and visitors safe.
Terry Lake, CEO of B.C. Care Providers Association, is also asking people planning to visit care homes to take safety precautions, “Opening the doors to visitors brings increased risks and elevated anxiety among staff, we ask for everyone to please be patient with the process, and to respect new guidelines on the number of visitors and the requirement for masking and hand sanitizing.”
April 1st visitation relaxation – media wrap up
Here are a few other stories from local media on this important day.
Emotional day at B.C. care homes as families hug loved ones for first time in a year
Regular care home visits now allowed as B.C. relaxes visiting rules
Relaxed visiting rules take effect at B.C. long-term care facilities
After a ‘lonely’ year, visitor restrictions easing in long-term care Thursday
After a year, finally a chance to hold hands as visitor restrictions eased
Emotional day at B.C. care homes as families hug loved ones for first time in a year
