COVID-19 (coronavirus) Updates and Resources for Residents and Families

Updated March 18, 2020

The RHRA is closely monitoring developments related to COVID-19 (coronavirus) and is ready to assist local health authorities should an outbreak at a retirement home occur.

The RHRA’s primary concern is the health and safety of seniors living in Ontario retirement homes.

Please see RHRA’s COVID-19 FAQ for Residents and Families

 

Should you visit a retirement home?

Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has recommended that retirement homes and long-term care homes allow only essential visitors. The ministry is identifying essential visitors as those who have a resident who is very ill or requires end-of-life care. All essential visitors must be actively screened by retirement home staff prior to entering the home.

It is important for residents in retirement homes to not be isolated from family and loved ones. If a resident is unable to receive visitors in-person, communicating via telephone or through other technology can be an important link during stressful times.

Care decisions can also be made via telephone or over email if the need arises.

If you have questions about arrangements, please talk to the retirement home for their protocols and procedures.

The RHRA is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care as well as the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility to ensure the timely knowledge of any developments and how it could affect seniors in retirement homes. For the latest information on COVID-19 and how to recognize possible symptoms, visit the Ministry of Health’s information portal.

 

RESOURCES

How to contact your local Public Health Unit

What you need to know to help you and your family stay healthy