Long-Term Care Homes COVID-19 Update

The new Ministry of Long-Term Care directive outlines the following for visitors (essential caregiver and/or general visitor):

• A maximum of four visitors are permitted at a time indoors when visiting a resident.
• Children under the age of two years old do not count towards the visitor maximum. Children over three years of age will need to be swabbed and those under the age of 14 will need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian, as a swabbing consent form will need to be completed.
• All visitors must be actively screened upon entry to the home and should not proceed beyond entry points/areas in homes until completed.
• All visitors will be asked for proof of vaccination status to gain entry into the home (each time). Those who are not fully vaccinated (14 days after second dose) will need to complete a RAPID test.
  • Proof of vaccination status can be shown to the screener via paper copy, email, or image.
  • General visitors will be asked to wait 15 minutes pending test results prior to unit entry.
• All visitors will need to follow the required screening and surveillance procedures outlined by the home.
• All visitors are required to maintain physical distance from other residents and visitors.
• All visitors must wear a home-provided surgical face mask that covers their mouth, nose, and chin at all times during the visit.
• All visitors who are fully vaccinated are able to eat and drink indoors (inside the resident’s room) or outdoors (designated tables). It is required that visitors will keep their mask on during the remainder of the visit.
• Currently, no pets are allowed inside or outside home property.

Hillsdale Terraces is happy to welcome the following visitors:

• Essential caregivers
• General visitors

Essential caregivers

Every resident can designate individuals as essential caregivers (no maximum). Essential caregivers are friends and family who visit in person in the resident room and/or outdoor property, to provide direct care to the resident (e.g. supporting feeding, mobility, cognitive stimulation, communication and assistance in decision-making). 

Registration procedures for essential caregivers

• Every essential caregiver must be registered with the home. To book an appointment to register, please call Reception at 905-579-3313, ext. 5000.
• During registration, the essential caregiver will receive: (a) information pertaining to home policies regarding COVID-19 (both visitor and screening/surveillance); (b) education on infection control procedures; (c) instructions regarding screening procedures; and (d) the ability to have any questions/comments/concerns acknowledged.
• Essential caregivers must receive monthly training. They will be provided with an updated policy (if applicable) and Public Health videos via email from the home’s Supervisor of Screening and Surveillance. Essential caregivers must attest to completing the required education on the screening sheet.
• Upon completion of the registration, essential caregivers will receive an identification lanyard that must be worn at all times while in the home.
• Proof of vaccination status will be asked and a copy will be obtained for statistical purposes.

Visiting procedures for essential caregivers/general visitors

• There is no limit to the number of visits or the time spent visiting. We ask that visitors arrive between the hours of 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Essential caregivers and general visitors must pass screening requirements at the screening desk. Screening consists of answering questions and passing the required surveillance testing.
• The home will provide a surgical mask that must be worn at all times.
• Visits for essential caregivers are permitted as follows and are subject to direction from the Durham Public Health Unit.

When the home is not in outbreak: 

• A maximum of four caregivers per resident visit, if the resident is not self-isolating or symptomatic.
• A maximum of one caregiver per resident per visit, if the resident is self-isolating or symptomatic.

When the home is in outbreak:

• A maximum of one essential caregiver at a time.

Any recent and relevant information pertaining to COVID-19 will be posted on the home’s communication whiteboard, located in the main lobby by the elevators.

Hillsdale Estates COVID-19 Outbreak - Frequently Asked Questions

For media inquiries, please contact Corporate Communications.

October 6 update: We have been notified by Public Health that the PCR result from the person of concern is negative and all resident PCR results are negative as well. Therefore, effective immediately, Maple Grove will be removed from all precautionary measures and will be following the same current protocols in the home.

October 4 update: As of Saturday, October 2, we are taking extra precautionary measures on Maple Grove until we receive the result of a PCR test from a person of concern. The person of concern was asymptomatic while in the building; however, Public Health advises us to still continue with safety measures out of an abundance of caution. Please note we do not have any residents that have symptoms on Maple Grove and the residents will not be placed on droplet precautions, but residents will need to remain in their rooms and received a PCR swab. We are required to stop the communal dining and small group activities as well at this time. We will not be making any changes to the current visiting protocols or the current testing protocols in place at this time. Again, this is out of an abundance of caution until we receive the result of the PCR from this person of concern.  If you have any questions, please connect with a manager.

September 29 update: We are excited to share with you that Public Health has declared the outbreak over. We would like to thank you for all your support and understanding during this time and we will continue to send you communication as we slowly transition to reopening the home. Thank you again.

September 28 update: We would like to thank you for your continued support during this time, as we continue to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority.

We are pleased to advise that we continue to remain stable – as we do not have any active resident or staff cases – and we expect Public Health to declare the outbreak over tomorrow (Wednesday, September 29).  

We will notify you when Public Health has cleared the home of outbreak, at which time the following protocols will fall into place for the entire home:

• Meal service in dining rooms will resume on all home areas.
• Indoor visits will continue with one essential caregiver visiting at a time and the visit will occur in the resident’s room.
• General visitors will be permitted to visit outside with one general visitor visiting at a time.
• Outdoor visits can occur on the property without requiring approval.
• All residents will remain on the home area unless going outside.
• Absences will be allowed without pre-approval.
• Small group recreational activities will be permitted on all the home areas.
• All those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated will require a Rapid Antigen test immediately after screening and you must wait for your results.
• Masks and eye protection must still be worn in all areas of the home.

We will provide you with further communication by the end of this week regarding any further re-opening activities for next week. Thank you.

September 24 update: We would like to thank you for your continued support during this time, as we continue to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority.

We are pleased to advise that we continue to remain stable as we do not have any active resident cases and we now have one affected staff.

Thank you for continuing to adhere to the current visitor and PPE requirements.  In consultation with Public Health,  the testing for all staff and Essential Caregivers, working or visiting in all areas of the home, will change as of Monday September 27, 2021 and will be in accordance to the current Region of Durham policy. Any staff or ECs that are not vaccinated or partially vaccinated will be required to continue with daily Rapid Antigen testing and the testing must be done immediately after screening and before going to any other area in the home. Fully vaccinated staff and ECs will no longer be required to be tested.

A reminder that the fourth floor does remain in outbreak status. All home areas except for Primrose Path are permitted to have essential caregiver visits, one essential caregiver visiting at a time and the visit will occur in the resident room.  

We will continue to assess the plan on a daily basis and make changes as needed. Further information will be provided next week as we move closer to the end of our outbreak.

September 22 update: We would like to thank you for your continued support during this time, as we continue to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority.

We continue to remain stable as we do not have any active resident cases and we remain with two affected staff.

Thank you for continuing to adhere to the current testing and PPE requirements.  

A reminder that the fourth floor does remain in outbreak status. All home areas except for Primrose Path are permitted to have essential caregiver visits, one essential caregiver visiting at a time and the visit will occur in the resident room.

As of today, the unaffected home areas will resume small group activities. 

We will continue to assess the plan on a daily basis and make changes as needed. 

Thank you.

September 20 update: It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of one of our residents, who was previously COVID-19 positive and recently resolved. Our thoughts are with their family and loved ones at this time. 

We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time, as we continue to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority.

We currently do not have any active resident cases; 13 residents who tested positive are now resolved and eight residents have passed away. We have two staff who are positive for COVID-19 and 10 staff who have resolved.  

Public Health has declared both the second and third floor out of outbreak status today (September 20). In conjunction with Public Health, we will begin to implement our safe and progressive resumption plan today and over the next upcoming weeks. Testing requirements have not changed for all staff and essential caregivers; we ask that you continue with a daily Rapid Antigen test and you receive one PCR test this week, regardless of your vaccination status. You are also expected to continue to wear both a mask and eye protection at all times in the building. 

A reminder that the fourth floor does remain in outbreak status. We do apologize for any confusion related to the visiting protocols on the fourth floor over the weekend. Residents who live on Strawberry Fields, Honey Harbour and Maple Grove are permitted to have essential caregiver visits; one essential caregiver visiting at a time, and the visit will occur in the resident room.

Please note we will include a complete list of the changes effective today to family members and Power of Attorney contacts shortly and we will continue to update the information on this webpage to ensure you have access to the regular updates during the outbreak at all times.        

We will assess the plan on a daily basis and make changes as needed. 

Thank you.

Protocols for second and third floor:

- Dining rooms will be open beginning at supper time today (Monday, September 20).

- Residents will no longer be isolated to their room, but will remain on the home area.

- Residents are no longer required to receive a PCR test.

- Essential caregivers permitted; one visiting at a time

-  Any visit on the home area will remain in resident room.

-  No general visitors are permitted.

-  Outside visits can occur on the property with one essential caregiver and they no longer require pre-approval.

- Absences remain permitted for urgent and medical purposes.

- All non-medical absences continue to require pre-approval by a manager.

- There will be no group gatherings; no recreational group gatherings.

Fourth floor remains in outbreak status:

- Entire floor remains in outbreak status.

- Residents remain isolated to their room.

- Residents have received another PCR test.

- Absences permitted ONLY for urgent and medical purposes

- No general visitors.

- Essential caregivers are permitted to visit Strawberry Fields, Honey Harbour and Maple Grove, one at a time and the visit will occur in the resident room.

- Primrose remains with no visitors.

September 17 update: It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of two of our residents who were previously COVID-19 positive and recently resolved. Our thoughts are with their family and loved ones at this time.

We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time, as we continue to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority.

We currently do not have any active resident cases; 14 residents who tested positive are now resolved and seven residents have passed away. We remain with four staff who are positive for COVID-19 and eight staff who have resolved.

As of Monday, September 20, both the second and third floor will be out of outbreak status. In conjunction with Public Health, we have developed a safe and progressive resumption plan for the upcoming weeks for these floors, as the fourth floor remains in outbreak. For the week of September 20, we will begin the process of opening the dining rooms, and residents will no longer be isolated to their room but will remain on the home area. Residents are no longer required to receive a PCR test. We will assess the plan daily and make changes as needed. Current protocols are listed below, and we will continue to update the information on this webpage to ensure you have access to the regular updates during the outbreak at all times.

Thank you.

Protocols for the second and third floors:

• Two essential caregivers permitted; one visiting at a time.
• No general visitors are permitted.
• Any visit on the home area will remain in resident room.
• Outside visits can occur on the property with one essential caregiver. These visits no longer require pre-approval.
• Absences remain permitted for urgent and medical purposes.
• All non-medical absences continue to require pre-approval by a manager.
• Testing requirements remain the same; all staff and essential caregivers to receive a daily RA test and one PCR the week of September 20, regardless of vaccination status.
• Anyone in the home will be required to wear a mask and eye protection at all times

Fourth floor remains in outbreak status:

• Residents remain isolated to their room.
• No visitors are permitted.
• Residents will receive another PCR test.

September 16 update: Thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority.

We currently have no active resident cases in the home; we have 16 residents who tested positive but are now resolved; and five residents who have passed away. We have four staff who are positive for COVID-19 and eight staff that have resolved. 

We continue to discuss our outbreak protocols with Public Health as we are reviewing our current state; we will advise you of any changes as soon as possible.

The home successfully provided 208 residents with a 3rd booster dose of the vaccine yesterday and we trust this will play a role in further protection from this virus. A huge thank you to the nurses from Public Health and our colleagues from Lakeridge Health for all their support in making this happen.

Please continue with your RA test every day and again ensure you received a PCR test this week.  

We will continue to update the information on the webpage Durham.ca/LTCUpdates to ensure you have access to the regular updates during the outbreak at all times. Thank you.

September 14 update: It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of one of our residents last evening (September 13) who was COVID-19 positive. Our thoughts are with their family and loved ones at this time. 

We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time, as we continue to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and our staff remains our highest priority.

We currently have two residents who are positive for COVID-19; 14 residents who tested positive but are now resolved; and five residents who have passed away. 

Tomorrow morning (Wednesday, September 15), a team from Public Health will be coming in to provide the second dose and third dose booster vaccines for COVID-19 to all eligible residents in the building. All consents have been collected and we have a plan in place to ensure this team can efficiently and safely travel the building to complete the vaccinations.

We will continue to update the information on this webpage to ensure you have access to the regular updates during the outbreak at all times. Thank you.

September 13 update: 

We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. The home continues to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and our staff remains our highest priority.

We have had a staff exposure this past weekend affecting the fourth floor. We currently have three staff who are positive for COVID-19, as eight staff have resolved.

As of this afternoon on Monday September 13, we have four residents who are positive for COVID-19; thirteen residents who tested positive but are now resolved; and four residents who have passed away.  Please note that while resolved indicates that a person is no longer considered infectious, it does not mean that the person has necessarily recovered from the disease; those considered resolved may continue to require treatments to help in their recovery as COVID-19 may create serious health challenges and consequences.

All residents will receive another PCR tomorrow Tuesday September 14 and we ask that all staff and essential caregivers receive one PCR this week and continue with the daily RA test.

Each resident who is not on Primrose path may have two essential caregivers, with one essential caregiver visiting at a time, and visiting may only occur in the resident room.  Starting today, residents will be given access to go outside for short periods of time each day.  This will be approved on a case by case basis but will not apply to the 4^th floor or Apple Blossom until further notice.  Approval may only be given by a manager at this time. 

We will continue to update the information on this webpage to ensure you have access to the regular updates during the outbreak at all times. Thank you.

September 10 update: We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. The home continues to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and our staff remains our highest priority.

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of one of our residents yesterday (September 9), who was COVID-19 positive. 

We currently have eight residents who are positive for COVID-19; nine residents who tested positive but are now resolved; and four residents who have passed away. We remain with seven staff who are positive for COVID-19, as three staff have resolved.

The three residents on Honey Harbour short hall have resolved today and have moved back to Primrose Path. Honey Harbour short hall will remain vacant at this time. We will continue to cohort staff on Primrose and the home’s plan for cohorting residents will continue to be reviewed by Public Health on a regular basis.

Each resident who is not on Primrose path may have two essential caregivers, with one essential caregiver visiting at a time, and visiting may only occur in the resident room. 

Again, the home is planning to provide all the residents with their third dose of the vaccine on Wednesday, September 15, 2021; we will be contacting you shortly to obtain the appropriate consent. Please continue with your RA test every day and again ensure you received a PCR test this week.

We will continue to update the information on this webpage to ensure you have access to the regular updates during the outbreak at all times. Thank you.

September 9 update: We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. The home continues to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and our staff remains our highest priority.

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of one of our residents today, who was COVID-19 positive and in hospital.

We currently have 12 residents who are positive for COVID-19; five residents who tested positive but are now resolved; and three residents who have passed away. We have seven staff who are positive for COVID-19, as three staff have resolved.

Resident care remains cohorted so that staff are dedicated to caring for residents who are positive only or residents who are negative only. The home’s plan for cohorting residents is being continuously reviewed by Public Health. As residents are resolving and being cleared by Public Health, they are returning to their rooms on Primrose Path. Residents who are considered resolved are no longer infectious, however will remain in isolation for the duration of the outbreak.

The home is planning to provide all the residents with their third dose of the vaccine on Wednesday September 15; we will be contacting you shortly to obtain the appropriate consent.

Please continue with your RA test everyday and again ensure you received a PCR test this week; residents will be receiving another PCR test this week as well. 

We will continue to share information on this webpage to ensure families continue to have regular updates during the outbreak.

For specific questions regarding a resident’s status, we ask that you contact the resident home area directly. For questions regarding a resident who has tested positive for COVID-19, we ask that you contact Jeff Gardner, Nurse Practitioner, at extension 6347 or at jeff.gardner@durham.ca. If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact Tammy Clarke at Tammy.Clarke@durham.ca or Jasmine McKnight at Jasmine.McKnight@durham.ca. We will make every effort to respond to you as promptly as possible and ask for your continued patience as we navigate through this situation.

Thank you.

September 7 update: First and foremost, we extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the two residents who passed, as well as to the entire Hillsdale Estates community during this difficult time.

The home continues to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and our staff remains our highest priority.

As of today (September 7), we have 13 active positive resident cases and eight active positive staff cases.

Public Health has asked that all staff and essential caregivers receive one PCR test this week and continue with daily Rapid Antigen testing.

Our staffing levels remain stable and the management team will continue to be either onsite or available each shift as much as possible.

We will continue to share information on this webpage to ensure families continue to have regular updates during the outbreak.

For specific questions regarding a resident’s status, we ask that you contact the resident home area directly. For questions regarding a resident who has tested positive for COVID-19, we ask that you contact Jeff Gardner, Nurse Practitioner, at extension 6347 or at jeff.gardner@durham.ca. If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact Tammy Clarke at Tammy.Clarke@durham.ca or Jasmine McKnight at Jasmine.McKnight@durham.ca.

We will make every effort to respond to you as promptly as possible and ask for your continued patience as we navigate through this situation.

September 6 update: 

We would like to thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. The home continues to operate under outbreak protocols as directed by Public Health. The health and safety of our residents and our staff remains our highest priority.

We currently have 16 residents who are positive for COVID-19; two residents who tested positive but are now resolved; two residents have passed away. We have six staff members who are positive for COVID-19 with two staff that are resolved.

At this time we have not received confirmation on the variant of concern. Currently, 95 per cent of residents, 83 per cent of employees are fully vaccinated. Agency staff that are coming into the home are also fully vaccinated.

Resident care is cohorted so that staff are dedicated to caring for residents who are positive only or residents who are negative only. The home’s plan for cohorting residents is being continually reviewed by Public Health. As residents are resolving and being cleared by Public Health they are returning to their rooms on Primrose Path. Residents that are considered resolved are no longer infectious, however will remain in isolation for the duration of the outbreak.

Public Health has asked that all staff and Essential Caregivers receive one PCR test this week and continue with daily Rapid Antigen testing.

Our staffing levels are good and the management team continues to be present in the home at all times. We will make every effort to respond to you as promptly as possible and ask for your continued patience as we navigate through this situation.

September 5 update: 

We are deeply saddened to report that a resident at Hillsdale Estates Long-Term Care Home in Oshawa has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19. We extend our sincere condolences to the family during this difficult time.

The home remains with 19 affected residents and eight affected employees.

The health and safety of our residents – and the team members who care for them – remains our highest priority. We are taking every precaution to limit the further spread of COVID-19 in our homes and community.

We continue to follow direction from our Public Health Department to protect our staff and residents. We are actively screening all employees and essential visitors; closely monitoring all residents and staff for any signs and symptoms; and following infection control protocols and wearing personal protective equipment, including a surgical mask with a shield. In addition to the surgical mask with a shield, a gown and gloves are used when providing care.

The health and safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority, and we will keep you informed and communicate any updates.

We know that this is an uncertain and challenging time. Please be assured that the Region of Durham remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to care for your loved ones. 

September 2 update: In follow-up to yesterday’s update, we currently have 18 affected residents who remain on Honey Harbour and Primrose Path, and eight affected staff. Even though we have high vaccination rates in the home, we are seeing positive results in fully vaccinated staff and residents. In consultation with Public Health, all residents in the home will be PCR tested again tomorrow (Friday, September 3). We are awaiting further direction regarding staff and Essential Caregiver (EC) PCR testing and will communicate this once received. Please continue to get your Rapid Antigen (RA) test accordingly. In response to some questions we have received, please note that we have not had any deaths in the home related to COVID-19.

We are working with Public Health and Lakeridge Health to further cohort the affected residents and, as noted yesterday (Wednesday, September 1), we will be making room changes as a result. As the situation changes, the cohorting plan will require continuous adjustment. We thank you for your continued patience and support as we facilitate these moves. Calls are also being placed to families whose resident is moving.

Please be reminded that only one EC can visit a resident at a time unless the resident is very ill or palliative. If you have any questions regarding visiting, please reach out to a member of the management team. We also ask that no visitors eat or drink in the home or resident room to decrease the possibility of exposure.

We will continue to update you regularly and thank you once again for your understanding and support.

September 1 update: We were advised yesterday that we have three additional affected residents with a positive Rapid Antigen test from Primrose Path; their PCR test results are pending. As of today, we have 16 affected residents and eight affected staff.

In order to further cohort the affected residents, we are going to proceed to move the COVID home area to Primrose Path. This means that the affected positive residents, both from Honey Harbour and Primrose Path, will be moved to Primrose. We will be separating the affected residents from the unaffected residents on the home area. This will further support having the resources we need in the one home area. We are working to have this plan in place as soon as possible. We will be contacting all residents, families, and staff that are affected by these moves separately as well.

We will continue to send updates as needed. Thank you. 

August 31 update: As of today, the home has 13 affected residents; the residents' care is continued to be managed in the home and this is good news. We have eight affected staff; contact tracing continues and follow-up measures are being implemented accordingly.

All the residents in the home will receive a second PCR test on Tuesday, August 31. The goal is to have two negative PCR tests on file in order to reassess isolation protocols in place.

As we continue to assess the baseline status of the home and in dialogue with Public Health, we are implementing some changes to the current protocols in place. The following changes are now in effect:

• All staff and essential caregivers, vaccinated/unvaccinated or partial, will be asked to get an RA test every day until further notice. We are also asking that you get a second PCR test this week, between Tuesday and Friday. 

• Please ensure that there are two to three days between the first PCR test you received last week and the one you will receive this week.

• All departments are working together to ensure resources are being managed with resident care and supporting staff set as a priority.  

• We have developed a management schedule that ensures managers are in the building and checking in on every shift and on weekends.

It is critical that we all remain vigilant in all the IPAC measures in place. Thank you for your ongoing perseverance.

August 29 update: Thank you all for your support & encouragement in implementing the protocols in place thus far. 

We understand many of you are concerned about how the affected residents are doing. At this time what we can share is that the 12 affected residents are doing ok and their health status remains manageable in the home with stable Vital Signs. The affected residents are on the short hall of Honey Harbour and 2 remain on Primrose Path. We have 6 affected staff that are being monitored as well. Please note that test results that are coming in reflect both vaccinated and partial vaccinated individuals.

The leadership team is meeting daily and we have implemented a clear strategy to continue to manage this with every proactive measure we have available to us.

Our main focus is on the staffing in the home as we are assessing different options to ensure appropriate staffing. If you are an Essential Caregiver we would appreciate your ongoing help and assistance with caring for your loved one.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to connect with a manager.

We will continue to send updates on a regular basis. 

Thank you.

August 28 update: In further consultation with Public Health, and out of an abundance of caution Hillsdale Estates will be moving all resident home areas to isolation effective Saturday August 28^th.  We continue to monitor the situation and await the results of PCR testing that was conducted. We have received preliminary results from RA testing that 5 more residents on Primrose Path and 1 staff member have tested positive. As a result please be reminded that:

• All residents will remain in isolation in their rooms
• Dining will be moved to resident rooms
• Full PPE will be required for everyone everywhere in the building – this includes full face shield or goggles
• There will be no group activities on the home areas or on the main floor
• Only 2 ECs will be permitted to visit with 1 EC visiting at a time and we will ask that all visits take place in the resident room
• No other visitors will be permitted at this time
• No absences will be permitted at this time unless medically urgent and/or compassionate/palliative in nature

The testing protocols that were put in place yesterday remain.

If you have any questions or concerns please speak with a team member as soon as possible.

Thank you for your continued support.

August 27 update: We have received clarification from Public Health that four additional residents on Primrose Path have tested positive on the PCR from the original surveillance testing. Public Health has also requested that, out of an abundance of caution, Moonlight Bay and Maple Grove residents also be placed in isolation due to a potential exposure. As a result, to ensure no further spread and/or risk of any further exposure, Public Health will be declaring a home-wide outbreak today in order to assess our current state. 

The home-wide outbreak will include the following:

• All residents on Primrose Path, Honey Harbour COVID unit, Moonlight Bay and Maple Grove will remain in isolation.
• All residents in all other home areas will remain in the home area.
• Dining will remain the same except for Primrose, Honey Harbour COVID unit, Moonlight Bay and Maple Grove.
• Full PPE will be required for everyone everywhere in the building (this includes full face shield or goggles).
• There will be no group activities on the home areas or on the main floor.
• Only two essential caregivers (ECs) will be permitted to visit, with one EC visiting at a time, and we will ask that all visits take place in the resident room.
• No other visitors will be permitted at this time.
• No absences will be permitted at this time, unless medically urgent and/or compassionate/palliative in nature.
• Admissions will be placed on hold.
• All essential services will be placed on hold, including hair dressing.

Testing requirements:

• All residents will receive a PCR test.
• Residents on Primrose will be retested tomorrow, Saturday, August 28.
• In order to assess the current state, we are asking that all staff – vaccinated/unvaccinated/partial vaccinated - get a PCR test between today and Monday morning. If you are not working, you are welcome to come in on your own time to get a PCR test, otherwise you are expected to get your PCR test a.s.a.p. upon your next shift. Unvaccinated/partial vaccinated staff will be asked to get an RA test everyday at the very beginning of their shift, starting immediately.
• All ECs – vaccinated/unvaccinated/partial - will be receiving one PCR test on their next visit to the home and thereafter unvaccinated ECs will receive an RA test every time they visit and will wait for results before visiting the home area.

In order to stop any further spread, it is critical that we remain vigilant at all times. If you have any questions, please connect with a manager. Thank you.

August 27 update: Public Health has declared an outbreak affecting Primrose Path, as we have received confirmation of positive PCR test results affecting one staff and two residents.

The affected residents will be moved to the Honey Harbour short hall this evening to isolate.

Please note that all other resident swabs on Primrose Path have come back negative.

We will continue with only one registered essential caregiver visiting the residents on Primrose at a time and the visit will take place in the resident’s room. All absences for residents on Primrose Path are canceled, with the exception of urgent medical and compassionate/palliative absences.

If you have any questions, please connect with a manager. Thank you. 

The new Ministry of Long-Term Care directive outlines the following for visitors (essential caregiver and/or general visitor):

• A maximum of four visitors are permitted at a time indoors when visiting a resident.
• Children under the age of two years old do not count towards the visitor maximum. Children over three years of age will need to be swabbed and those under the age of 14 will need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian, as a swabbing consent form will need to be completed.
• All visitors must be actively screened upon entry to the home and should not proceed beyond entry points/areas in homes until completed.
• All visitors will be asked for proof of vaccination status to gain entry into the home (each time). Those who are not fully vaccinated (14 days after second dose) will need to complete a RAPID test.
• Proof of vaccination status can be shown to the screener via paper copy, email, or image.
• General visitors will be asked to wait 15 minutes pending test results prior to unit entry.
• All visitors will need to follow the required screening and surveillance procedures outlined by the home.
• All visitors are required to maintain physical distance from other residents and visitors.
• All visitors must wear a home-provided surgical face mask that covers their mouth, nose, and chin at all times during the visit.
• All visitors who are fully vaccinated are able to eat and drink indoors (inside the resident’s room) or outdoors (designated tables). It is required that visitors will keep their mask on during the remainder of the visit.
• Currently, no pets are allowed inside or outside home property.

Hillsdale Estates is happy to welcome the following visitors:

• Essential caregivers
• General visitors

Essential caregiver

Every resident can have one essential caregiver visit at a time. Essential caregivers are friends and family who visit in-person in the resident room, to provide direct care to the resident (e.g. supporting feeding, mobility, cognitive stimulation, communication and assistance in decision-making).

Registration procedures for essential caregivers

• Every essential caregiver must be registered with the home. To book an appointment to register, please call the visiting resource line at ext. 6332.
• It is mandatory that the essential caregiver has obtained a COVID-19 negative test result within the last seven days prior to registering with the home. Proof of the negative test result must be shown to the screener at each visit.
• During registration, essential caregivers will receive education on infection control procedures and will be given instructions as to screening procedures. Essential caregivers must receive this training monthly.
• During registration, the essential caregiver will receive a copy of the homes visiting policy and must verbally attest that they have read it. Essential caregivers must read and attest that they have read this monthly.

Visiting procedures for essential caregivers

• For registered essential caregivers, there is no limit to the number of visits or the time spent visiting.
• Essential caregivers must be 18 years of age or older.
• Essential caregivers must pass screening requirements at the screening desk. Screening consists of answering questions, having a temperature check and showing proof of your negative COVID-19 test result in the last seven days with no subsequent positive test to the screener.
• The home will provide surgical/procedure masks, gloves, gowns and eye protection (as applicable).
• The essential caregiver will be provided with an identification badge at the time of check-in that must be worn at all times while in the home.
• Visits for essential caregivers are permitted as follows and are subject to direction from Durham Public Health Unit 

When the home is not in outbreak:

• A maximum of one caregiver per resident visit, if the resident is not self-isolating or symptomatic.
• A maximum of one caregiver per resident per visit, if the resident is self-isolating or symptomatic.

When the home is in outbreak:

• A maximum of one visitor at a time.

October 18 update: Public Health has declared an outbreak affecting Trafalger Square, as we have received confirmation of positive PCR test results affecting one resident.

Out of an abundance of caution, residents in all other RHAs are on precautionary measures. Only one registered essential caregiver will be permitted to visit a resident at a time and the visit will take place in the resident’s room. General visits and outdoor visits are canceled.  

All absences are canceled, with the exception of urgent medical and compassionate/palliative absences.

All staff are being swabbed and PCR tested as are all residents on Trafalgar Square.  

All registered essential caregivers are to be RA tested prior to visiting their family member; this is to take place each time you visit. You will be asked to wait for the results of the test prior to going to the RHA.

If you have any concerns, please contact 905-668-5851 ext. 5902 and a registered staff will answer your questions.

We continue to work with Public Health and will keep everyone informed as we move forward. Thank you for your understanding as we move forward through this difficult time. The health and safety of our residents—and the team members who care for them—remains our highest priority.

October 13 update: We have had a high-risk staff exposure on Trafalgar Square. All residents on Trafalgar Square have been placed into isolation, and were swabbed on October 11 and will be swabbed again on Friday, October 15.

Registered essential caregivers may continue to visit on Trafalgar Square with a maximum of one at a time and must remain in the resident's room while visiting. General visitors are not permitted to visit on Trafalgar Square until further notice.

Until further notice, swabbing of all staff on Trafalgar Square has increased.

We will continue to provide you with regular updates as needed. If you have any questions, please connect with a manager.

The new Ministry of Long-Term Care directive outlines the following:

• A maximum of two general visitors at a time per resident in addition to two essential caregiver(s).
• Children under the age of two years do not count towards the general visitor maximum.
• All visitors must be actively screened upon arrival and prior to the visit and should not proceed beyond entry points/areas in homes.
• All visitors will need to follow the required screening and surveillance procedures outlined by the home.
• All visitors need to attempt to maintain physical distancing at all times from the resident if they are not fully immunized
• All visitors must wear a face mask that covers their mouth, nose and chin at all times during the visit, unless they are fully immunized and sharing snacks in the resident’s room, or distanced from other residents outside.

Fairview Lodge is happy to welcome the following visitors:

• Essential caregivers
• General visitors

Essential caregiver

Essential caregivers are friends and family who visit in person in the resident room, to provide direct care to the resident (e.g. supporting feeding, mobility, cognitive stimulation, communication and assistance in decision-making). 

Registration procedures for essential caregivers

• Every essential caregiver must be registered with the home. To book an appointment to register, please call Reception at 905-668-5851 ext. 5913.
• Essential caregivers must be 18 years of age or older.
• During registration, the essential caregiver will receive education on infection control procedures and will be given instructions as to screening procedures. Essential caregivers must receive this training monthly.
• During registration, the essential caregiver will receive a copy of the home’s visiting policy and must verbally attest that they have read it. Essential caregivers must read and attest that they have read this monthly.

Visiting procedures for essential caregivers

• Essential caregivers must follow all of the above visiting guidelines.
• Visits for essential caregivers are permitted as follows and are subject to direction from the Durham Public Health Unit.

When the home is not in outbreak: 

• A maximum of two caregivers and two general visitors per resident visit, if the resident is not self-isolating or symptomatic.
• A maximum of two caregivers per resident per visit, if the resident is self-isolating or symptomatic.

When the home is in outbreak:

• A maximum of one visitor at a time.

As we continue to follow all directives as issued by the Ministry of Long-Term Care and guidance from our Public Health Department, we are pleased to share with you the following changes within in our home.

Lakeview Manor is happy to welcome the following visitors for both indoor and outdoor visits:

• Essential caregivers
• General visitors
• Scheduled virtual/outdoor visits (no longer available through the home)

Essential caregivers

• An essential caregiver is defined as someone who is designated by the resident and/or their SDM and is visiting to provide direct care to the resident (e.g., supporting feeding, mobility, cognitive stimulation, communication, and assistance in decision-making).
• Essential caregivers must be 18 years of age or older.
• There is no longer a limit of two essential caregivers per resident.
• All essential caregivers must be registered with the home.
  • To register, please contact Kailey Graham at 705-426-7388 ext. 5323.
  • During the essential caregiver registration process, caregivers will:
    • receive education on infection control procedures and will be given instruction on appropriate screening procedures.
    • receive a copy of the homes visiting policy and verbally attest that they have read it.
    • receive an identification badge that must be worn at all times within the home.

Visiting procedures for essential caregivers

• Essential caregivers must meet all screening and surveillance requirements prior to entry into the home. If you are visiting your family member outdoors, you must also ensure to screen in at the screening table located in the main entrance.
• All visitors are reminded to always wear your mask both indoors and outdoors, with the exception of fully immunized individual(s) sharing a meal/drink with a fully immunized resident.
• Up to two essential caregivers are allowed in the resident’s room at one time, regardless of immunization status.
• The home will provide surgical/procedure masks, gloves, gowns, and eye protection (as applicable).
• If the home is in outbreak or the resident is in isolation, only one essential caregiver can visit the resident at one time. Further direction will be provided by Public Health.

Fully immunized essential caregivers

Essential caregivers who are fully immunized will:

• No longer be subject to surveillance testing requirements when attending the long-term care home.
• May have physical contact, including for non-care related reasons, with fully immunized residents.
• May support in the dining room and join in activities
• May eat/drink with the resident, if the resident is fully vaccinated, in the resident’s room, family dining room (must be booked with reception) or outdoors.

Partially/unimmunized essential caregivers

Essential caregivers who are partially/unimmunized will:

• Remain subject to testing protocols, which is two Rapid Antigen tests per week on non-consecutive days.
• Physical distancing (two metres) is required when not providing direct care, however physical contact (hugs) are permitted.
• Unable to join the resident in the dining room or any activities within the home.
• Is not allowed to eat/drink with the resident, both indoors and outdoors.

*Note: If you choose not to disclose your vaccination status, then you would be treated as a partially/unimmunized individual.

General visitors

• A general visitor is a person who is not an essential visitor and is visiting:
  • To provide nonessential services;
  • For social reasons, including care related to cognitive simulation and meaningful connection.

Visiting procedures for general visitors

• No general visitors are permitted to visit in any of the following situations:
  • The entire home is in outbreak
  • The resident is self-isolating or symptomatic
  • The local Public Health Unit is in lockdown.
  • Up to two general visitors are allowed to visit in the resident’s room at one time, regardless of vaccination status.
  • Please note that if the home is in outbreak and/or the resident is in isolation, general visitors are not permitted unless the resident is in an area unaffected by the outbreak.
• All visitors are reminded to wear your mask at all times, with the exception of eating and drinking for fully immunized visitors.
• General visitors must meet all screening and surveillance requirements prior to entry into the home. If you are visiting your family member outdoors, you must also ensure to screen in at the screening table located in the main entrance.
• Children (three years of age or older) who are unimmunized will follow the surveillance schedule of a partially/unimmunized individual as listed below.
• The home will provide surgical /procedure masks, gloves, gowns, and eye protection (as applicable).

Fully immunized general visitors

General visitors who are fully immunized will:

• No longer be subject to surveillance testing requirements when attending the long-term care home.
• May have physical contact, including for non-care related reasons with fully immunized residents.
• May eat/drink with the resident, if the resident is fully vaccinated, in the resident’s room, family dining room (must be booked with reception) or outdoors.

Partially/unimmunized general visitors

General visitors who are partially/unimmunized will:

• Remain subject to testing protocols, which is to undergo a Rapid Antigen Test on the “day of,” unless they have been tested the previous day, as soon as they come into the home. They cannot proceed into the home until a negative result is received.
• Physical distancing (two metres) is required when not providing direct care, however physical contact (hugs) are permitted.
• Unable to join the resident in the dining room or any activities within the home.
• Is not allowed to eat/drink with the resident, both indoors and outdoors.

*Note: If you choose not to disclose your vaccination status, then you would be treated as a partially/unimmunized individual.

Scheduled virtual/outdoor visits

With the changes to the guidelines around visiting, the LTC homes need to return to offering group programs and activities. As such, a decision has been made to discontinue the scheduling of outdoor visits and Skype/Zoom/Facetime calls for families and friends given that they are able to have in person visits. Families and friends are welcome to still bring in their own devices and arrange these types of visits on their own.

Pet visits

Pets are currently not permitted to accompany visitors inside or outside the home. Exceptions will be made for residents who have been deemed palliative.

Home tours

With the updated changes, we are now also able to offer tours of our facility. If you wish to book at tour with our home, please call 705-426-7388. You may also view our home virtually online. 

FAQ's  - I'm a family member and would like more information

Last updated: August 27, 2021

Should you have any questions, please reach out to a member of the management team at the home.

My loved one is currently a resident in a Regional long-term care home, am I able to visit them?

As the status changes frequently, please click on the home tab to see the most recent visiting guidelines.

Can my loved one leave the property for any reason?

Residents can leave the property for scheduled medical appointments only. Please review the Absence Policy.

Are all residents screened for COVID-19?

We are conducting active screening of all residents, as per Ministry of Long-Term Care Directives, to identify if any resident has fever, cough or other symptoms of COVID-19. Residents with symptoms (including mild respiratory and/or atypical symptoms) will be isolated and tested for COVID-19.

What preventative measures are being taken to keep my loved one safe?

All Regional Long-Term Care homes are actively screening anyone coming into their homes. We continue to monitor the situation closely. 

We have enhanced sanitation measures and continue to encourage those in our homes to practice good hygiene. We are limiting close interactions among those within our homes. Plus, we are isolating residents who show symptoms, to help prevent the spread of this virus; and employees are wearing personal protective equipment (including a surgical mask with a shield, a gown and gloves) when caring for symptomatic residents.

We continue to encourage all staff, residents and visitor to be vaccinated

We have been following direction from the Ministry of Health since the pandemic began. This includes actively screening all employees and visitors, social distancing, reinforcing hand hygiene and ensuring staff do not report to work if ill.

These practices have been put into place to help ensure the continued health and safety of our residents, and the individuals who provide a high level of care in our homes.

My loved one lives in a unit where someone tested positive. What are you doing to limit the spread?

When an individual tests positive for COVID-19, all residents on that unit will be tested again. Further testing will be assessed, in collaboration with Public Health, using a risk-based approach based on exposures.  

Regional long-term care homes are committed to providing exceptional care, following all Ministry regulations. The health, safety and well-being of those within our care are the highest priority.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be changed between residents so, if the employee gives care to the resident who tested positive, the employee will need to change their PPE before caring for your loved one.

Should your loved one test positive for COVID-19, in addition to maintaining our regular high level of care, employees are required to wear personal protective equipment (including a surgical mask with a shield, a gown and gloves) when entering the rooms of any symptomatic residents. This gear is changed before and after any interaction with symptomatic residents.

Employees are diligent in the monitoring of these patients.

Also, employees who work in a unit where someone tested positive will be asked to work isolate. This means that staff working in the impacted unit work only on that unit and then are required to self-isolate at home. They are also required to take their temperature twice daily and continue to self-monitor.

How are staff screened for COVID-19?

All staff are to self-screen at home and not to report to work if they are ill. Upon entering the building, they are actively screened using a screening tool developed by the Ministry of Health. 

What criteria is used to determine if a resident is showing symptoms of COVID-19?

Residents are being monitored for symptoms, including fever and unusual respiratory symptoms such as cough, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat. If symptoms develop, they are immediately placed in isolation and monitored closely. 

How are staff members managing social distancing for the residents? 

While the layouts of long-term care homes vary, staff are encouraging social distancing in group areas such as dining rooms. If residents are symptomatic, they are isolated in their room. For residents in isolation who are not compliant, staff monitor closely and redirect.

Are activities for residents ongoing in all the units?

Activities have resumed and staff are ensuring that proper physical distancing and infection control precautions are in place.

During an outbreak, are residents in the infected unit free to visit common areas of the home, such as the dining room?

When there is an outbreak of any sort in the home, whether it is rhino, influenza or COVID-19, affected residents are isolated to their room, including for meals, and the home area is closed. Residents who are not affected are able to move freely through the home area, but are restricted from leaving.

Are staff wearing personal protective equipment in all areas of the homes?

We are following infection control protocols; staff are wearing personal protective equipment as per Ministry of Long-Term Care and Public Health guidance, including a surgical mask, a gown and gloves when providing care to residents in isolation.

In addition, all direct care are required to wear surgical masks at all times for the duration of their shift, whether the home is in outbreak or not.

Based on guidance from public health experts, we ask that you not drop off homemade food, gifts or other non-essential items. Cut flowers and plants are being accepted at the homes for residents.

Items are to be dropped off at the front entrance and will be held for 72 hours and/or wiped down with disinfectant wipes prior to being given to the resident.

Can I discharge my loved one from one of the Regions’ long-term care homes, due to concerns about COVID-19?

On March 26, the Region of Durham received notification that the Long-Term Care Homes Act had been amended, specifically the section pertaining to Admissions and Discharges. The amendments allow residents to leave a long-term care home if they wish to do so due to COVID-19; and expedite their return to the long-term care home when they need to come back.

Before the resident leaves the home, we are required to provide specific information, including information on care requirements and that the resident (or their substitute decision maker) assumes full responsibility for the care, safety and wellbeing of the resident. This would be done via phone.

During the time the person is away, the bed will be available for occupancy by another person.

The process for returning to the home differs according to the time the resident was away. For absences that are three months or less, the resident would be deemed eligible and accepted for admission by the home, and simply placed into the “re-admission” category (this category is the highest-ranking category for vacant beds; it ranks higher than the “crisis” category). For absences greater than three months, an assessment by the placement coordinator is required and the home can refuse the admission if the circumstances for refusing an admission in the LTCHA exist. If accepted, the person would be placed into the “re-admission” category for that long-term care home.

This amendment is intended to free up valuable resources and bed space as the health care system continues to respond to COVID-19. 

Please speak to your Resident Care Co-ordinator, the Director of Care or the Administrator should you have any questions on this matter. 

Are new admissions and re-admissions to the home tested for COVID-19?

All new residents will be isolated and tested for COVID-19.  All unvaccinated new residents must remain in isolation for 14 days from arrival, even if asymptomatic. Vaccinated residents must isolate until a negative COVID test result is received.  Patients transferred from hospital to a long-term care home must be tested prior to the transfer.

FAQ -  I’m a community member and would like to thank staff

Your support and encouragement means the world to our team. A simple thank you goes a long way. You can send us a note electronically, and we will share it with the team. For the health and safety of our residents and staff, we are not accepting donations of homemade food or other gifts.

If you have other items you would like to donate, please check with our home administration first.

FAQs - I'm an employee and would like more information

Last updated: August 27, 2021
Should you have any further questions, please reach out to your manager.

What is the notification process if an individual in the home tests positive for COVID-19?

Following confirmation from Durham Region Health Department of a positive test result, home staff will immediately notify family members and employees.

When are employees required to wear personal protective equipment (includes a surgical mask with a shield, a gown and masks)?

All staff are required to wear surgical masks at all times for the duration of their shift, whether the home is in outbreak or not. 

Employees are required to wear personal protective equipment (includes a surgical mask with a shield, a gown and gloves) when entering the room of a resident on droplet and contact precautions, or when they deem necessary based on their risk assessment at the point of care. This PPE must be donned before entering a room on additional precautions and removed after leaving that room or after any interaction with a symptomatic resident. Hand hygiene must be performed before donning and after doffing.

If an individual tests positive on a unit, will everyone be tested?

Directions for swabbing provided by the Durham Region Health Department will be followed, and will be based on risk assessments of the reported exposures. Employees working in the unit may be required to submit to testing. Residents living on the unit will most likely be tested. 

If an individual tests positive on my unit, how long will I be in work isolation?

You may or may not be required to self-isolate at home outside of work hours, depending on the assessment from the public health unit. 

I am displaying symptoms, should I return to work?

Please follow the advice of Durham Region Health Department. If you show symptoms at work, you will be swabbed before you go home. If you become ill outside of work, you will need to call Durham Region Health Department to coordinate assessment and testing. If you test positive, you will need to contact your manager, the return to work coordinator and follow the return to work process. Staff should report their symptoms on their screening app, or upon entering the home and not report to work if they fail screening.

I returned from a trip outside of Canada, should I come back to work?

You will be required to monitor yourself for symptoms. Please follow the advice of Durham Region Health Department regarding non-essential travel.

What procedures should I follow if I have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19?

Please follow the advice of Durham Region Health Department. Let your employer know immediately if you have been identified as a high risk contact and are required to self-isolate. Continue to monitor yourself for symptoms and do not report to work if symptoms are present. If symptomatic, make arrangements to get a PCR swab. 

I live with someone who is high risk, how do I protect them?

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones to be fully vaccinated. Additionally, please follow the advice of Durham Region Health Department and home infection control practitioners about preventative measures and proper precautions. You may also consider bringing a clean change of clothes with you to work and changing into them once your shift is complete.

Are employees who work at Regional long-term care homes allowed to work at other facilities in the community?

Fully vaccinated staff may work at multiple locations, as long as neither location is currently in outbreak. If an outbreak is declared, staff must commit to working at only one facility.