Does one of your family members currently reside within an assisted living facility or care home? If so, the chances are high that you wish to visit on a regular basis. The good news is that modern care homes offer a number of options depending upon your schedule as well as how often you wish to visit. Still, there are some important considerations to highlight in relation to the winter months. Are there any unique COVID 19 regulations for care homes in place? What do these say about visiting a loved one? Let us examine some protocols as well as how they might affect your plans.
This is a collaborative post.
Addressing COVID-19 Concerns
It is only logical to begin by touching upon how care homes have been responding to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. While we seem to finally be emerging from the “worst of the worst”, cautions still must be taken in order to reduce the chances of this virus spreading.
We are already aware that COVID has particularly impacted care homes throughout the United Kingdom and it is critical to avoid any type of resurgence. This is why a handful of visiting rules need to be obeyed at all times including:
- Adhering to all relevant social distancing measures.
- Wearing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when appropriate.
- Avoiding such visits if you or someone you know has recently been taken ill (even if COVID is not suspected).
In other words, a bit of prudence will go long way towards protecting any loved ones who are currently living within a care facility. These COVID 19 regulations for care homes surely make sense to us all.
What About COVID-19 Tests?
Let us now assume that you have not recently been sick and still wish to visit a family member. In this case, you will nonetheless need to take a type of test known as a rapid lateral flow test. This examination will quickly determine whether or not you have COVID (remembering that not everyone shows symptoms). This test can be provided by the care facility although it is also possible to be examined with the help of your general practitioner or a government-approved testing facility.
Additional tips and suggestions
The only reason why visits may not be permitted is in the event that a recent outbreak of COVID-19 has been detected in the care facility. In this scenario, a “pause” of 14 days is mandatory so that further patients do not fall ill. In the event that the care home is open to visitors, there are still some other precautions to take:
- Try to schedule a visit as much in advance as reasonably possible.
- Allow for extra time travelling during inclement weather conditions.
- Speak with staff members if you have any questions regarding their social distancing rules.
The Devon care home here will be happy to answer any other questions that you may have in regard to the upcoming winter season. Being prepared in advance is the best way to fully enjoy a bit of much-needed time with your loved one.
Let’s hope the COVID 19 regulations for care homes will keep everyone safe this winter.
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