The Minnesota Department of Health has released guidelines for outdoor visits, but some are worried it’s not enough.
The new guidance will allow the elderly in care facilities, such as nursing homes, to see their families after being isolated for many months during Covid-19. But people like Senator Karin Housley are concerned about those who cannot move and are unable to see their loved ones. Even for those at the end of their lives, indoor visits are not allowed.
“I remain deeply concerned about individuals whose health prevents them from being moved outdoors and I urge the department to consider implementing guidance for indoor visits, perhaps for end-of-life and other compassionate means,” said Senator Housley.
Our pressure is working! @mnhealth is allowing outdoor visits at LTC facilities. Good news, but I remain concerned about those whose health prevents them from being outdoors & urge MDH to consider indoor visits, esp for end-of-life & compassionate means. https://t.co/R9wP6rOoML
— Karin Housley (@KarinHousley) June 18, 2020
Other states have taken actions to allow visits in their care facilities in past weeks, and with more joining them soon. In-person visits are allowed in Massachusetts and North Dakota, with Arkansas and Missouri allowing them soon.
“I will continue to aggressively exercise my oversight authority on this administration’s response to long-term care,” said Sen. Housley. “The lockdown has unquestionably taken a significant toll on the physical, mental, and emotional health of our seniors—many of whom have diminished mental capacity that makes it difficult for them to understand what is happening.”
Judah Torgerud
Judah Torgerud is a freelance journalist working with Alpha News to keep the people informed and bring the truth to light. Contact him at whqnu@nycunarjfza.pbz.
