Ontario begins loosening pandemic rules in long-term care homes

Ontario loosening pandemic rules in long-term care homes now that almost all residents are fully vaccinated.

The changes mean homes and resume communal dining, indoor events and gathering.

“The high vaccination uptake in long-term care homes means we can take further steps towards bringing social interactions back — supporting the mental and emotional well-being of residents while protecting their physical well-being,” said Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long-Term Care.

As of May 4, 95 per cent of long-term care residents are fully immunized and more than 85 per cent of staff have received at least their first dose.

Residents and caregivers who are fully immunized are also allowed to have physical contact like hugging.

The province says direction on social outings for residents will come once the current stay-at-home order is lifted.