Restrictions on visiting hours at B.C. care homes are lifting on July 19. (Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

restrictions lifted

Significant restrictions in B.C. long-term care homes easing

Jul 8, 2021 | 4:25 PM

NANAIMO — Families will soon be able to spend more time with their loved ones in care homes.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on Thursday, July 8 announced restrictions at long-term care home and seniors-living facilities will be eased on July 19.

This includes no longer needing to schedule visits in advance, no more limits on the number of visitors and facility-wide social events can happen again.

“We know these changes will bring a big sense of joy and relief to many people,” Dr. Henry said. “But we also know some people will be nervous, perhaps feeling we’re moving a bit too quickly. We have considered these things very carefully and will continue to watch.”

Masks will be required for visitors who are not fully immunized or can’t provide proof of their second dose.

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“The past 18 months have been dramatic on all of our lives, but no more so than seniors and elders in our long-term care and seniors-assisted living. They were the first to suffer severe illness from COVID-19 and our first deaths were at a long-term care facility,” Dr. Henry said.

There are currently no active COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care or assisted living facilities.

Island Health has 16 active cases as of Thursday.

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