Burnaby, BC (July 16, 2021) — Terry Lake, the CEO of BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) and EngAge BC today issued the following statement in response to changes taking effect on July 19th affecting visitation protocols for long-term care and assisted living residences.
“First of all, I would like to express my appreciation to Minister of Health Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry for the recently announced changes regarding care home visits by family members and volunteers,” says Terry Lake. “We have all longed for this opportunity where life can to return to normal and empathize with both residents and their loved ones after 16 months of being separated by physical distance, a barrier or a mask.
“Thankfully, those practices are coming to an end.
“While the risk posed by COVID-19 has not entirely gone away, the high vaccination rates and low case counts are comforting indicators that the threat of the novel coronavirus is also nearing an end.
“I know many will be eager to finally see their spouses, moms, dads or companions in a care home, and have an opportunity to hug them without a mask. It will be a wonderful time for many.
“The change in visitor policy does come with some responsibilities for both care home operators and visitors, that I hope everyone will take note of and respect. These are things like checking in with greeters during visiting hours, presenting your proof of vaccination, and wearing a mask when traveling through the care home.
“Our care home front-line staff and leadership have worked extremely hard under very difficult circumstances during this health crisis. Many are physically and mentally exhausted from the experience.
“Therefore, we ask everyone in the public who plans to visit their loved ones in care to do so with patience, and compassion. These changes that take effect Monday will require a small period of adjustment, and hopefully everyone will work together to make life safe and comfortable for everyone in our care homes.”
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Media Contact:
Michelle Ho
Digital Media and Communications Specialist
BC Care Providers Association
michelle@bccare.ca
604 880-2863
About BC Care Providers Association & EngAge BC
Established in 1977, BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is the leading voice for B.C.’s continuing care sector. Our growing membership base includes over 425 long-term care, assisted living, and commercial members from across British Columbia. Through its operating arm EngAge BC the organization represents independent living and home health service providers.
