There will be more family members able to visit residents in long term care Monday.

In a news release this morning, the Ministry of Long Term Care announced each resident will be able to have four essential care givers enter the home whenever they want, even in outbreak, starting Monday. But only two people will be able to visit at one time.

Residents who have had at least three doses of COVID-19 vaccine will be able to resume social day trips.

On February 21, general visitors five years and older who have had at least two doses of COVID-19 vaccine will be able to resume visits to long-term care residents.

The number of visitors at a time per resident will also increase from two to three, including caregivers. And all residents, regardless of vaccination status, will be able to resume social day trips, and residents who have had at least three vaccine doses will be able to enjoy overnight social absences.

The adult day programs can resume then along with the return of entertainers and external personal care services in the homes. Social group activities should remain small, with up to 10 individuals.

After March 14, visitors under five years old will be able to resume visits and the number of visitors at a time, per resident will increase from three to four, including caregivers. All residents regardless of their vaccination status will also be able to enjoy social overnight absences.

Testing requirements for all staff, caregivers and visitors continue to be in place.