BCSLA

Addresses COVID-19 Concerns

Through BCSLA’s cooperation with the Provincial Government of BC, we are working to provide timely, informative updates to our members and to those living in our communities and their loved ones. This document will be populated with updates as we receive them, so be sure to check back regularly. It is recommended that you contact the seniors’ community or residence prior to any visitation.

For those who have any questions or concerns, please email them to: info@bcsla.ca

Sites Requiring PPE and Sanitization Supplies:

For those sites who have a critical shortage (three days or less of supply) of any PPE or sanitization products should send an email to info@safecarebc.ca with the list of PPE or supplies needed and the name of your current suppliers.

Visitation Guidelines for Family and Loved Ones:

Although most BCSLA members are already practicing common sense approaches to their site specific visitation guidelines, the Public Health Officer has issues a communique regarding the restriction of visitors. Although the notice implicitly applies to Long-Term Care and Assisted Living sites, the Ministry of Health (MoH) officials have been notified that some measures may be adopted by Independent Living operators to help assist in any enforcement of visitor restrictions. In addition, a Residential Tenancy Board FAQ regarding Independent Living sites has been included for your information.

But to be prudent and safe, it is recommended that you contact the residence prior to visiting to ensure that any site-specific guidelines are adhered to.

For visitors to Independent Living sites, please visit the Residential Tenancy Board FAQ:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies/covid-19#legal

Select Standing Committee Finance: Pandemic Pay and COVID-19 PHO Compliance Costs:

https://www.bcsla.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Select-Standing-Committee-Finance-2021-Budget.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is COVID-19? What are the symptoms?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses found mostly in animals. In humans, they can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). The disease caused by this new coronavirus has been named COVID-19. The virus that causes COVID-19 is called SARS-CoV-2.

COVID-19 was first identified in late 2019. It was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020.

Use the self-assessment tool available from the BC Centre for Disease Control: https://bc.thrive.health/

Q. Where can I find the current COVID-19 case counts, surveillance reports and press statements?

B.C. has declared a state of emergency and a public health emergency. Find the latest information
about confirmed cases in B.C. and the surveillance report on our website. You can find the latest press statements and videos of the press briefings on the BC Gov News website.

Q. What is self-monitoring and self-isolation?

Self-monitoring means you should be monitoring your health and the health of your children for symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. Individuals who are self-monitoring are allowed to attend work and school and take part in regular activities.

Self-isolation is used to lower the chance of spreading infectious germs to other people by avoiding situations where someone could infect others. Self-isolation is one important way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in BC. In this case, you must stay at home, in a hotel or similar place, and avoid all contact with others.

Detailed information can be here found here: https://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseasesconditions/covid-19/self-isolation

Q. What precautions should be taken when visiting with others?

Please follow the guidelines set out by the Provincial Health Officers in regards to “core” bubbles and restrictions in effect. Visit outdoors where possible and practice physical distancing. Do not share food, drinks, utensils, etc. If you are at greater risk (over the age of 60 or with underlying medical conditions), be informed of your risk, think through your risk tolerance, and take extra precautions as needed.

Q. Can I visit family and loved ones who are over the age of 60?

Those over the age of 60 are at greater risk if exposed to COVID-19. Before arranging a visit, make sure they are aware of their risk, taking into consideration any underlying health conditions. During your visit, you may wish to take extra precautions such as avoiding handshakes or hugs and maintaining a physical distance.

If your relative resides in a senior living residence, please call the residence and check their visitor policy before visiting.

Do not plan to visit if you have a cold, flu, or COVID-like symptoms.

Q. ADD: Q. What is a core bubble??

The “core bubble” for a person who lives alone can include one or two others from outside of their household. For example, three people who live alone can join together to form one exclusive “core bubble”. A person who lives alone can also join with a 2-person household to form a 3-person “core bubble”.

The key is that this 3-person core bubble remain consistent and tight for all involved. For more information visit: Social Gatherings

Addresses COVID-19 Concerns

Daily COVID-19 Updates:

Directives and Orders:

Information about COVID-19:

Guidance Documents and Links for Providers:

Health Authority Information:

BC COVID-19 Phases:

Sites Requiring PPE and Sanitization Supplies:

Visitation Guidelines for Family and Loved Ones:

For visitors to Independent Living sites, please visit the Residential Tenancy Board FAQ:

Select Standing Committee Finance: Pandemic Pay and COVID-19 PHO Compliance Costs:

Frequently Asked Questions: