Dear Family Member/Substitute Decision Maker:

We are pleased to inform you that the Government of Ontario has now revised its directive on visitation at long-term care homes. The first phase involves allowing outside visits to occur between residents and family members at homes across the province. We know you are eager to be reunited with your loved one after several weeks of separation due to the COVID-19 virus. At the same time, we will be requesting that all visitors follow these protocols to limit the potential for exposure to the virus:

  • Visitations must be pre-scheduled with the home outside of mealtimes, be limited to 30 minutes in length and will be allowed if the home is not be in a current COVID-19 outbreak. The exception is for visits to a resident who is at end-of-life.
  • In order to promote equitable access, residents will be limited to one visit with a single visitor per week. Families should arrange amongst themselves who will visit the resident for the week.
  • Visitors must complete the attached screening questionnaire, which will be given to home staff upon each visit. Failure to complete the questionnaire or to pass the screening criteria will mean the visit must be rescheduled.
  • Visitors must be able to assure home staff that the visitor has tested negative for COVID-19 within the previous two weeks and subsequently not tested positive. Please note that the home is not responsible for providing the testing.
  • Visitors must comply with long-term care home infection, prevention and control protocols, including proper use of face or surgical/procedural masks and use of hand sanitizer before and after the visit. While hand sanitizer will be provided at the home, visitors will be expected to provide their own masks.
  • With the exception of service animals, animals may not accompany a visit.

We would appreciate it if you would take a moment to review the enclosed brochure, which provides further details on protocols for outdoor visits. Please contact the home at (519) 925-3746 to discuss details of arranging a visit with your loved one or to get answers to any additional questions you may have. We thank you for your continued patience and support for our staff and residents during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Stacey Rooyakkers Executive Director