Geriatric care and nursing homes have been at the forefront of news in Ontario due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this vulnerable population. In this article, we will explore the current news in Geriatric care and nursing homes in Ontario and the steps being taken to improve care for seniors.
Ontario is home to approximately 622 long-term care homes, with more than 78,000 residents. The pandemic has hit these homes hard, with more than 4,000 deaths in long-term care homes in Ontario alone. The situation has been so dire that the Canadian Armed Forces were deployed to several long-term care homes to provide much-needed assistance.
The pandemic has highlighted the need for reform in long-term care homes in Ontario. Many of these homes were already facing staffing shortages, lack of funding, and other systemic issues before the pandemic hit. However, the pandemic has exposed these issues and made it clear that immediate action is needed to improve the quality of care for seniors.
The Ontario government has taken steps to address the issues in long-term care homes. In November 2020, the government announced an investment of $540 million to support the hiring of more staff, provide additional training, and improve infection prevention and control measures. The government has also committed to building new long-term care homes and expanding existing ones.
In addition to government action, there has been a push for change from the public and healthcare workers. The Ontario Health Coalition, a non-profit organization that advocates for public healthcare, has been calling for reforms in long-term care homes for years. The pandemic has increased public awareness of the issues and the need for change.
One of the main issues in long-term care homes is staffing. Many homes are understaffed, with staff working long hours and residents not receiving the care they need. The government’s investment in hiring more staff is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to address the systemic issues that lead to staffing shortages.
Another issue is the quality of care provided in long-term care homes. The pandemic has exposed the lack of infection prevention and control measures in many homes, leading to outbreaks and deaths. The government’s investment in improving infection prevention and control measures is a positive step, but more needs to be done to ensure that all homes are providing high-quality care to their residents.
There has also been a push for more accountability and transparency in long-term care homes. Many families have expressed frustration with the lack of information provided by homes during the pandemic. The government has committed to improving transparency and accountability in long-term care homes, including regular inspections and public reporting of COVID-19 outbreaks.
Despite the challenges faced by long-term care homes in Ontario, there are also positive stories of innovation and improvement. Many homes have implemented virtual visitation programs, allowing residents to stay connected with their families during the pandemic. Some homes have also implemented innovative programs to improve the quality of life for residents, such as music therapy and pet therapy.
In conclusion, the pandemic has brought the issues facing long-term care homes in Ontario to the forefront. While the situation is dire, there are steps being taken to improve the quality of care for seniors. The government’s investment in staffing, infection prevention and control measures, and new long-term care homes is a positive step, but more needs to be done to address the systemic issues that lead to staffing shortages and lack of quality care. By working together, we can ensure that our seniors receive the care and respect they deserve.
