How to safely reintroduce visitors to care homes

We have reached a critical point in the coronavirus pandemic where the government feels that, if done safely, care home visits can now resume following the publication of new guidance late last month.

Having been kept apart for four months to reduce the risk of transmission, the isolating effects of lockdown have been difficult for residents and their families, who will now be keen to reconnect. For care providers, however, it is imperative visits are conducted in a safe manner to ensure nobody is put at further risk.

Those in the hard-hit care sector are all too aware of the devastating effects of an outbreak, and at the same time know just how detrimental loneliness can be to a resident’s health. As such, careful management is essential, and those involved in implementing safe visiting procedures should start by familiarising themselves with the government guidance before allowing visits to take place.