It’s the time of year when more people than usual visit loved ones in long-term care facilities like nursing homes. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued visitation guidance.
The guidance is updated based on recommendations from the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare.
Routine testing for COVID-19 is part of the guidance, but not a requirement. Mask wearing is required with some exceptions. Unlike last year, when visits were conducted through glass windows and over iPads, this year’s guidance calls for physical touch like hugging if the resident wants it.
Eighty-four percent of Michigan’s long-term care residents are fully vaccinated. As long as they are aware of the risks, and no other residents are put at risk, in-person visits are allowed and can not be restricted.
MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel said, “Long-term care residents receive physical, emotional and spiritual support by visiting with their family and friends, particularly during the holiday season. Our updated guidance provides key steps to take to make these visits as safe and fulfilling as possible.”
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland