New LTC COVID-19 Policies from MOLTC

The Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care [MOLTC] just released a memo outlining changes to the COVID-19 Policies for Long-Term Care homes. These changes take effect TODAY – October 14th.

MASKS
Inside Cassellholme, masks are still required for staff, essential caregivers and visitors. The MOLTC knows that some Residents miss seeing the faces of their friends and family. Once alone with a Resident in their private room, masks are optional [still recommended] for visitors.

We've created some spaces for Residents with shared rooms to have mask-less visits. The Garden Room and Auditorium can be booked in 30 minute intervals. Booking forms are on the door of the Garden Room – first come, first serve – one slot per day for each Resident. Simply write your Resident's name in a vacant time slot on the form to reserve that spot.

Masks are no longer required outdoors on Cassellholme property.

ACTIVE SCREENING AND TESTING
We'll continue to follow the current recommended screening and testing practices.

OUTINGS
When a Resident returns from an absence they will be screened at the entrance with the Ministry-recommended questions. No testing is required unless the Resident answers “yes” to the questions. In the days following the absence, if the Resident or family become aware that they were in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case, please call Ellen Whittaker at ext. 293 or the RN Supervisor at ext. 277. We will continue to screen Residents daily for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.  

NUMBER OF VISITORS
The limit of four visitors or essential caregivers per Resident is removed.

These changes don't apply if we're in an outbreak. With this in mind, we encourage you to remain cautious. 

• Wear a mask – especially indoors.
• Wash your hands often.
• Practice physical distancing – avoid large gatherings.

Remember, flu season is just around the corner and these precautions helped many of us stay well last year!

This is the document we received from MOLTC.