Residents of Ontario seniors' homes allowed to cuddle

The Ontario government has said the province has reached a point where nursing homes can resume activities such as group meals and gatherings, as well as close contact with others.

The authorities believe that this will improve the quality of life of the elderly, but at the same time it will not endanger their health, because the percentage of vaccinated residents in nursing homes is high: 95% of the residents have been vaccinated twice and 85% of the staff have been vaccinated at least once.

Now, for fully vaccinated residents of long-term care centers and fully vaccinated workers, "close physical contact" beyond that required for care — such as hugs — is allowed. But people still need to wear masks and keep their distance during activities.

The statement also said that once the province repeals the mandatory stay-at-home ordinance, vaccinated nursing home residents will be able to go out into nature and social activities. In addition, under the new rules, they can walk outdoors, go grocery shopping and to pharmacies whether they are vaccinated or not.