Seniors advocate says ‘balance needed’ between pandemic safety and quality of life for B.C.’s elderly

VICTORIA — The advocate for seniors in B.C. says keeping the elderly safe from COVID-19 by limiting visits to long-term and assisted living homes is one of the most challenging issues facing the province.
Isobel Mackenzie has released a report examining the effects of the policy on more than 13-thousand seniors and their families.
She says, with the pandemic stretching into its ninth month, “a better balance is needed” between pandemic safety and ensuring quality of life.
Mackenzie’s report finds signs of negative health impacts caused by isolation from loved ones and her report makes three recommendations, including allowing all residents to designate an essential care partner.