The province’s seniors advocate says there are many happy people today after the announcement that patients in hospitals and long-term care homes are now allowed to have a single designated visitor or support person.

Dr. Suzanne Brake says it’s welcome news as many seniors have been experiencing loneliness, isolation, confusion, and anxiety over the last three months.

In Canada, more than 80 per cent of COVID-19 deaths have been in long-term care facilities.

Dr. Brake says while this is a good first step, people will still be anxious.

She says we have to be very careful and cautious and help the staff at these facilities to feel confident and secure. Families, residents, and staff have to be kind to each other and recognize this is a new world, and we have to follow the rules and health guidelines.

Dr. Brake says something that’s been learned through this is that it’s underestimated and undervalued how important family and friends are in terms of support.