Care Home Visiting

Why can a designated visitor to a care home not have the same status as a key worker. With PPE and weekly Covid test surely they are no more risk to the residents than staff are just now. A plus for this would be a pair of willing hands when they are busy. Most of us have the experience of being our loved ones carer before , in my case anyway, 24hr care became necessary.
For the government to make this work I believe it would have to have the weight of legislation behind it
as a recommendation would lead to Care Homes doing exactly what they are doing just now. That is interpretation of “ the rules” as it suits them .

Why the contribution is important

In trying to protect our loved ones in Care Homes a terrible price is being paid. The enforced separation from their friends and family is having a really bad affect mentally on both residents and families . My husband is a resident in a care home. He has complex needs including vascular dementia . He has has a stroke and has heart problems. He is still articulate and tells me he is dying inside from loneliness. We were childhood sweethearts so the separation is causing mental health problems to myself also and I am receiving help for this at present. I cannot sleep for thinking he might die before I ever get to hold his hand.
I realise it is important to protect the vulnerable but, I am sure a bit of creativity could lead to ways round the problem presented by the enforced separation of friends and families.

by winifredmclaughlin on October 09, 2020 at 06:54PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 5.0
Based on: 7 votes

Comments

  • Posted by rationalone October 10, 2020 at 10:30

    Totally agree that access to care homes needs to be improved. My Mum has dementia and I am allowed to see her outside for 30 mins per week. She is frequently cold and distressed during these visits and at 2 metres apart and wearing a mask, it is virtually impossible to reassure her. It’s heartbreaking for her and my Dad who is stuck at home alone worrying about her.

  • Posted by helencumming October 11, 2020 at 16:30

    Totally agree, not allowing visitors is blatant cruelty to our elderly

  • Posted by Eyesonthepies October 11, 2020 at 21:35

    Yes, I agree. My Myum will die of loneliness. So horrible and tough.
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