The Manitoba government is looking to develop outdoor, all-season shelters near personal care homes, suitable for residents to safely visit with loved ones during the pandemic.
Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen says allowing residents to safely maintain connections with families and friends during the COVID-19 is crucial to their ongoing health and well-being, “We are planning ahead by moving forward with the development of all-season shelters, ensuring those needed and valuable visits can remain safe and uninterrupted.”
The Manitoba government will ask for feedback on conceptual designs for personal care home shelters in the near future. The shelters will be outside, but close to personal care homes year-round. They will be protected from the elements,, accessible, easily cleaned and provide a space for quality connections. Feedback can be provided on the website below.
“Despite advances in technology that have allowed for virtual visits, this pandemic has taught us that nothing can replicate a face-to-face visit,” the minister said. “Today’s announcement shows that once again Manitobans are innovative, resilient and kind-hearted.”
Across Canada, approximately 80 per cent of all deaths related to COVID-19 have been linked to those living in personal care homes. In Manitoba, similar outcomes have been avoided thanks to a number of precautions taken in the early stages of the pandemic including strict visitor restrictions, enhanced screening for staff and the implementation of the one-site staffing model at personal care homes.
In addition the province will be requesting proposals for safety and capital upgrades at personal care homes including:
– sprinkler protection,
– fire alarm voice communication systems,
– carbon monoxide detection,
– emergency lighting,
– infection control measures so not to affect residents, and
– planning and phasing of moving vulnerable residents.
The minister added these proposals are intended to build on the government’s commitment to ensure health-care facilities are in line with revised Manitoba Fire Code requirements including provision of fire suppression systems and increased fire separation enhancements to better protect residents, staff and the public.
