A new set of visitation guidelines have come into effect on Tuesday for acute and long-term care homes, as well as personal and group homes.

The new guidelines allow for two family members to be identified as support for residents, but only one family member can be present at one time.

Manon Desruisseaux, manager at Chez Nous care home, said she worked quickly to implement the guidelines so families can start visiting.

“I know they gave us until the 13th to implement it, but I wanted to make sure it was done for the seventh so families can finally come in and see their family,” she said.

Desruisseaux added being closed to visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t had much of an effect on residents with dementia, but it’s been hard on family members.

“Many people, residents, have not noticed that lack of visiting more than the families have missed the lack of visiting,” she said.

For critical, end of life and maternal care, two people can be present but physical distancing must be maintained.

All visitors will be required to wear medical-grade masks, adhere to physical distancing, practice good hand hygiene and limit movement within the facility.