Deconfinement is intensifying, even among the most vulnerable. In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry of Health announces that the directors of establishments hosting the elderly will be able to set up from Friday "a resumption of visits by relatives" when "the health situation allows". Minors, banned since March from coming to meet the elderly, will finally be able to do so.
Resumption of family visits can be done "more than two people at a time", when it takes place outdoors, and up to two people in a room, the ministry said in a statement. Provided they wear a mask, minors can participate in these visits, which will also no longer be under the supervision of a member of the establishment's staff.
Before mothers and fathers day
"The resumption of more medical and paramedical visits and collective activities in very small groups can be decided, as well as the intervention of trained and supervised volunteers," added the ministry. The same applies to outdoor activities, when the accommodation establishment for the elderly and dependent (Ehpad) has a garden or a courtyard.
"Hand washing, physical distancing and wearing a surgical mask remain compulsory for all visitors", insists the ministry in its press release. The latter explained that it was to allow the elderly to be surrounded by their loved ones on the occasion of Mother's Day, next Sunday, then of fathers, on June 21.
"Preserve their mental health"
But the situation remains potentially explosive. According to the ministry, "almost 45% of Ehpad still report at least one case of Covid-19". Those in charge of establishments must therefore "decide on the measures applicable locally, after collegial consultation with the healthcare team and in particular the coordinating doctors", he notes.
Before the announcement of the ministry, the AD-PA, association of directors of Ehpad, had stressed that "if it is essential to ensure the physical health of the elderly vulnerable, it is just as essential to preserve their mental health " She had asked in a statement that residents of Ehpad "may benefit (them) also flexibility in the context of the deconfinement of the general population".