Thread by @TorontoStar

While family or friends deemed essential caregivers can now visit during outbreaks, the drain of previous lockdowns has left residents struggling from loneliness and lack of physical movement. torstar.co/rN3K50HClnZ

"The mental and physical deterioration is quite evident since these lockdowns came into effect.”

Some no longer speak. Others are severely depressed. Many spent months in their rooms, losing the strength in their legs and, with it, their independence.
thestar.com/news/canada/20…

The greatest blow to residents is the loss of workers, with thousands infected and isolating at home, leaving remaining staff on extra duties, rushing from one resident to the next.
thestar.com/news/canada/20…

Advocates say that staffing losses are hitting homes across the sector and while acknowledging the importance of limiting Omicron’s spread, many say it is equally vital to give residents the social connections they desperately need.
thestar.com/news/canada/20…

It’s not just limits on visitors or the loss of outside trips with family.

@DorisGrinspun and others emphasize residents are “suffering from the isolation of less staff.”

Read more ⬇️
thestar.com/news/canada/20…