With the Niagara region in the Orange-Restrict category of the Ontario Government’s five-stage COVID Response Framework, general visitation is no longer permitted for residents in the Extended Care Unit (ECU) at Niagara Health’s Welland Site. This is a necessary measure to protect the safety of our residents in the long-term care home.

Recognizing the importance of our residents having support from their loved ones, families may now designate up to two Essential Caregivers per resident. Essential Caregivers provide direct care or support to the resident in the home. Care may include emotional support, cognitive stimulation, supporting feeding, mobility or personal hygiene. Only one caregiver may visit with a resident at a time.

“The health and safety of our residents is our top priority,” said Lezlie Leduc, Programs and Services Manager in the ECU. “Permitting visits by Essential Caregivers is one way we can support our residents social and emotional well-being while maintaining the safest possible environment within the unit.”

Families of residents in the ECU have been informed of this change and have been invited to begin the process of designating Essential Caregivers. Caregivers must adhere to the following safety protocols:

• Proof of a negative COVID test within two weeks prior to the visit;
• Screening at the door prior to entry. This will include a temperature check when they arrive; and
• All caregivers must wear a surgical mask at all times during their visit.

The ECU continues to support virtual visits, helping residents stay connected to their wider circle of family and friends.