Important Updates and Information on COVID-19
We aim to provide you with regular updates as the COVID-19 situation unfolds. In the meantime, you can learn more about COVID-19 and other hygiene practices to stay safe by visiting the links below.
We are committed to keeping you informed as the situation evolves and have established this page as a means for that communication. We want to hear from you, so please share your ideas, questions, or stories of inspiration during what is a trying time.
We have set up a dedicated email for those conversations: COVID19@mtcoseniors.com. Please reach out.
Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions.
We are committed to keeping you informed as the situation evolves and have established this page as a means for that communication. We want to hear from you, so please share your ideas, questions, or stories of inspiration during what is a trying time.
We have set up a dedicated email for those conversations: COVID19@mtcoseniors.com. Please reach out.
Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions.
May 22, 2020
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
Thank you for your continued patience during these challenging times. We know it has been difficult but your commitment to following our safety measures has kept residents safe and prevented the spread of COVID-19 within our community.
Update on Provincial Announcements
We are monitoring the gradual re-opening of the province closely and will continue to provide you with updates as they are available. Retirement homes have not yet been given the green light to re-open safely so we must continue to follow the instructions from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Retirement Home Regulatory Authority, Public Health Ontario and Health Canada until it is safe to relax safety measures.
This means all our COVID-19 safety precautions will remain in place including:
Exploring New Programming
We understand that these precautions have been in place for longer than expected and that adjusting to them has been tough. We have begun exploring ways to safely implement new programs that focus on physical activity, mental stimulation, and socialization to bring a new sense of “normal” into our homes. As we gradually introduce these new programs, we will continue to ensure that the safety of our residents and staff is protected. We hope that these new programs will help ease the difficulty of isolation and social distancing for this prolonged period.
As always, our priority is the safety of our residents, staff, and volunteers, and we will continue to follow all guidelines mandated by both the provincial and national public health authorities. Your continued support for these measures is essential in ensuring the safety of our community.
We remain by your side through these challenging times and we look forward to introducing our new programming to you very soon. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your General Manager or Reception.
Thank you for your continued trust in us.
Steve Graham, President
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
Thank you for your continued patience during these challenging times. We know it has been difficult but your commitment to following our safety measures has kept residents safe and prevented the spread of COVID-19 within our community.
Update on Provincial Announcements
We are monitoring the gradual re-opening of the province closely and will continue to provide you with updates as they are available. Retirement homes have not yet been given the green light to re-open safely so we must continue to follow the instructions from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Retirement Home Regulatory Authority, Public Health Ontario and Health Canada until it is safe to relax safety measures.
This means all our COVID-19 safety precautions will remain in place including:
- Visitor Limitations: only essential visitors are permitted on the premises, so visits with family members are still restricted.
- Resident Offsite Travel Limitations: residents are only permitted to travel off property to essential medical appointments.
Exploring New Programming
We understand that these precautions have been in place for longer than expected and that adjusting to them has been tough. We have begun exploring ways to safely implement new programs that focus on physical activity, mental stimulation, and socialization to bring a new sense of “normal” into our homes. As we gradually introduce these new programs, we will continue to ensure that the safety of our residents and staff is protected. We hope that these new programs will help ease the difficulty of isolation and social distancing for this prolonged period.
As always, our priority is the safety of our residents, staff, and volunteers, and we will continue to follow all guidelines mandated by both the provincial and national public health authorities. Your continued support for these measures is essential in ensuring the safety of our community.
We remain by your side through these challenging times and we look forward to introducing our new programming to you very soon. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your General Manager or Reception.
Thank you for your continued trust in us.
Steve Graham, President
May 22, 2020
For Residents of the Seniors Apartments at Balmoral Place
Protecting the safety of all residents, staff, and visitors at Balmoral Place Retirement Community is our top priority. While social distancing and frequent hand washing remain the most effective defense against COVID- 19, there are additional measures that we recommend following, as outlined by Public Health authorities and required by the provincial emergency order.
Our team is onsite to provide enhanced cleaning of high-touch surfaces in the apartment building and are available if you have any questions or concerns. We understand that these precautions are difficult to adjust to, but we appreciate your support as we work towards a new “normal”.
Staying Connected
We are committed to providing you with transparent and more frequent updates as we navigate these challenging times, together. To make these communications more convenient, we have set up a dedicated email address to send out e-updates and answer your questions. Please email us at COVID19@mtcoseniors.com with your contact information including your email address, phone number, name and apartment number to be added to our email communication list.
The health and safety of our community – residents, staff, volunteers and service providers remain our highest priority. Please reach out to us at 705-444-9898 if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued trust in us.
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
For Residents of the Seniors Apartments at Balmoral Place
Protecting the safety of all residents, staff, and visitors at Balmoral Place Retirement Community is our top priority. While social distancing and frequent hand washing remain the most effective defense against COVID- 19, there are additional measures that we recommend following, as outlined by Public Health authorities and required by the provincial emergency order.
- Avoid the use of common areas in the apartment building and avoid contact with surfaces that may
- not have been cleaned.
- Avoid congregating in the lobby or mail room.
- Respect closures of all amenity areas in the apartment building and retirement residence, including the recreation centre.
- Limit mail room use to 1 person at a time.
- Limit elevator use to 2 people at a time.
- Maintain social distancing while outside the building and on the property’s grounds.
- Similar to the retirement residence, and for the safety of all residents during their scheduled outdoor time, family visits on the property are prohibited, including in the parking lot.
- Practice proper hand hygiene and cough etiquette.
- As recommended by the public health authorities, consider wearing non-surgical masks when not in your apartment and in other areas where social distancing may not be possible.
- If you are symptomatic contact your primary health provider, Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 or the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit at 1-877-721-7520.
Our team is onsite to provide enhanced cleaning of high-touch surfaces in the apartment building and are available if you have any questions or concerns. We understand that these precautions are difficult to adjust to, but we appreciate your support as we work towards a new “normal”.
Staying Connected
We are committed to providing you with transparent and more frequent updates as we navigate these challenging times, together. To make these communications more convenient, we have set up a dedicated email address to send out e-updates and answer your questions. Please email us at COVID19@mtcoseniors.com with your contact information including your email address, phone number, name and apartment number to be added to our email communication list.
The health and safety of our community – residents, staff, volunteers and service providers remain our highest priority. Please reach out to us at 705-444-9898 if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your continued trust in us.
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
May 15, 2020
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
We would like to start by thanking all of you for your patience during these challenging times. Your cooperation and support is appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.
Update from the Province
The Ontario government has announced the first steps of a measured approach to reopening the economy, set to begin following the Victoria Day long weekend. As retirement homes are not part of the first phase of the province’s reopening plan, we will continue applying the current COVID-19 protective measures we have in place. We continue to monitor and follow directives from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Public Health Ontario, Health Canada, The Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Retirement Home Regulatory Authority, only revising our current measures when it is safe to do so.
Continued COVID-19 Precautions
While warmer, sunnier days are finally upon us, we request that you remain vigilant in helping us follow the important infection prevention and control measures, including physical distancing, we have in place at our homes. Our priority remains protecting the health and safety of our residents, families, staff, volunteers, service providers, and essential visitors. We’re all in this together, and everyone has a role to play in keeping each other safe.
The key measures we will continue following as we enter the Victoria Day long weekend, include:
These measures have been very effective to-date in protecting our residents and preventing the entry and spread of COVID-19.
This Victoria Day long weekend will be different from those in the past, and while being physically close to one another is not possible, we encourage you to connect with family members through video chat, by phone or by coordinating essential deliveries with our staff.
We hope you all have a wonderful long weekend. Please be safe, and as always, you can contact your General Manager or Reception if you require assistance or with any questions you may have.
Thank you for your continued trust in us.
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
We would like to start by thanking all of you for your patience during these challenging times. Your cooperation and support is appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.
Update from the Province
The Ontario government has announced the first steps of a measured approach to reopening the economy, set to begin following the Victoria Day long weekend. As retirement homes are not part of the first phase of the province’s reopening plan, we will continue applying the current COVID-19 protective measures we have in place. We continue to monitor and follow directives from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Public Health Ontario, Health Canada, The Public Health Agency of Canada, and the Retirement Home Regulatory Authority, only revising our current measures when it is safe to do so.
Continued COVID-19 Precautions
While warmer, sunnier days are finally upon us, we request that you remain vigilant in helping us follow the important infection prevention and control measures, including physical distancing, we have in place at our homes. Our priority remains protecting the health and safety of our residents, families, staff, volunteers, service providers, and essential visitors. We’re all in this together, and everyone has a role to play in keeping each other safe.
The key measures we will continue following as we enter the Victoria Day long weekend, include:
- Walking Program: The walking program for residents will continue. We know many of our residents would normally be spending springtime outdoors, and we want to continue to uphold that by encouraging them to get some fresh air and sunshine while remaining on the property.
- Visitor Limitations: Following the directives from local Public Health Units, only essential visitors are permitted on the premises, including the parking lot, so visits with family members are still restricted.
- Physical Distancing: We will continue to practice social distancing on our property and support our residents by offering activities while they isolate.
These measures have been very effective to-date in protecting our residents and preventing the entry and spread of COVID-19.
This Victoria Day long weekend will be different from those in the past, and while being physically close to one another is not possible, we encourage you to connect with family members through video chat, by phone or by coordinating essential deliveries with our staff.
We hope you all have a wonderful long weekend. Please be safe, and as always, you can contact your General Manager or Reception if you require assistance or with any questions you may have.
Thank you for your continued trust in us.
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
May 13, 2020
On Tuesday, May 12, 2020, Ontario extended its state of emergency until June 2, 2020. Premier Doug Ford says Ontario will enter stage one of a three-step plan to gradually reopen the province on Thursday (May 14, 2020). Ford said the province will allow more low-risk workplaces, seasonal businesses and essential services to reopen but has not provided any specifics.
With this in mind, we have extended all precautionary measures in place at the home until June 2, 2020. We will review this again on Thursday once further guidance is available from the provincial government. We are committed to doing everything we can to add normalcy to daily life for our residents and team members, wherever and whenever it is possible to do so safely.
We recently expanded our outdoor walking program and hope to relax other restrictions gradually and in a safe manner. We believe the precautions we have taken are the reason we have not had any outbreaks, which illustrates that our COVID-19 safety measures are working. We want to thank you all for your patience and support during these unprecedented times.
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
On Tuesday, May 12, 2020, Ontario extended its state of emergency until June 2, 2020. Premier Doug Ford says Ontario will enter stage one of a three-step plan to gradually reopen the province on Thursday (May 14, 2020). Ford said the province will allow more low-risk workplaces, seasonal businesses and essential services to reopen but has not provided any specifics.
With this in mind, we have extended all precautionary measures in place at the home until June 2, 2020. We will review this again on Thursday once further guidance is available from the provincial government. We are committed to doing everything we can to add normalcy to daily life for our residents and team members, wherever and whenever it is possible to do so safely.
We recently expanded our outdoor walking program and hope to relax other restrictions gradually and in a safe manner. We believe the precautions we have taken are the reason we have not had any outbreaks, which illustrates that our COVID-19 safety measures are working. We want to thank you all for your patience and support during these unprecedented times.
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
May 9, 2020
Mother’s Day is a time-honored tradition of recognizing the women in our lives who raised us, dried our tears, and well, mothered us. Everyone has one or has someone who is like a mother to them.
On the second Sunday of May, we honor those women who are our mothers. Whether we shower her with gifts, take her to a fancy dinner or make her a homemade card, what moms want most is to be surrounded by the love of their family. Knowing the people they love are safe, sound, and healthy is a mom’s number one priority.
We recognize that this Mother’s Day will be different from those in the past, and physically surrounding each other with love will not be possible, but please take heart in the knowledge that the best gift this year might actually be; being together, apart.
Allow us to assist you in connecting with your family by video chat, or by coordinating special deliveries. Contact us or look for an email from us regarding delivery instructions at your home.
At this time, we are only able to permit those making drop-offs onto the property so thank you for all of your cooperation with the Public Health directives and physical distancing guidelines. Like you, we look forward to returning to life as normal as soon as it is safe to. That being said, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
Due to the higher than normal volume of drop-offs expected for this special day, we have dedicated team members to assist with the process. This will help ensure there is no disruption to the resident’s outdoor time and that physical distancing is maintained for everyone’s safety.
To all of the amazing mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, and great-great-grandmothers who live and work at our homes, we want to wish you a safe and healthy, Happy Mother’s Day!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
Mother’s Day is a time-honored tradition of recognizing the women in our lives who raised us, dried our tears, and well, mothered us. Everyone has one or has someone who is like a mother to them.
On the second Sunday of May, we honor those women who are our mothers. Whether we shower her with gifts, take her to a fancy dinner or make her a homemade card, what moms want most is to be surrounded by the love of their family. Knowing the people they love are safe, sound, and healthy is a mom’s number one priority.
We recognize that this Mother’s Day will be different from those in the past, and physically surrounding each other with love will not be possible, but please take heart in the knowledge that the best gift this year might actually be; being together, apart.
Allow us to assist you in connecting with your family by video chat, or by coordinating special deliveries. Contact us or look for an email from us regarding delivery instructions at your home.
At this time, we are only able to permit those making drop-offs onto the property so thank you for all of your cooperation with the Public Health directives and physical distancing guidelines. Like you, we look forward to returning to life as normal as soon as it is safe to. That being said, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
Due to the higher than normal volume of drop-offs expected for this special day, we have dedicated team members to assist with the process. This will help ensure there is no disruption to the resident’s outdoor time and that physical distancing is maintained for everyone’s safety.
To all of the amazing mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, and great-great-grandmothers who live and work at our homes, we want to wish you a safe and healthy, Happy Mother’s Day!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
April 24, 2020
In the face of adversity it takes a strong character to rise to the occasion and take on a challenge such as the one we are currently faced with. We want you all to know that everything you do makes a positive difference in the lives of our residents and our colleagues. Answering the call to serve a greater purpose during these times deserves nothing less than the greatest respect, which is what we are hearing over and over from our communities.
In the face of adversity it takes a strong character to rise to the occasion and take on a challenge such as the one we are currently faced with. We want you all to know that everything you do makes a positive difference in the lives of our residents and our colleagues. Answering the call to serve a greater purpose during these times deserves nothing less than the greatest respect, which is what we are hearing over and over from our communities.
“We are most appreciative of all you do to keep our loved ones well cared for and safe. I regularly hear of mom being greeted with a smile, not always easy to do, but so important for everyone during this very unsettling time. Take care, stay safe and know how glad we are that you are there.” – a family member, Bowmanville Creek Retirement Community
“We who live here will be forever indebted to this wonderful staff who turn up day after day to make sure that we are safe and well.” – a resident, Balmoral Place Retirement Community
“I wanted to say thank you to the incredible staff working tirelessly to ensure that all the residents have been so well looked after every day. I talk to my mom every day and she tells me about all the things you have implemented to make life a little easier for her while being confined to her own space. On behalf of myself and my entire family we appreciate and thank you.” – a family member, Allandale Station Retirement Residence
Our residents and their families are so grateful for all that you are doing and so are we!
All of us at MTCO can’t thank you enough for bringing peace and comfort to our residents and for looking after each other.
They say, an individual can make a difference, but a team can make a miracle.
We are thrilled that each of you are a part of our team!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
All of us at MTCO can’t thank you enough for bringing peace and comfort to our residents and for looking after each other.
They say, an individual can make a difference, but a team can make a miracle.
We are thrilled that each of you are a part of our team!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
April 18, 2020
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
We continue to face unprecedented times, with a global pandemic that is challenging us in ways we never could have anticipated. Nothing has been more inspiring than the way our staff, who provide care and services to those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19, have risen to the challenge while continuing to juggle the responsibilities in their personal lives. Our staff greatly appreciates all of the gratitude that has been expressed by the residents, families and our communities – they can never get enough praise or accolades for what they do, so please keep them coming (and don’t hesitate to get creative)!
We are likely to face greater challenges and demands in the days ahead, but we are confident we will succeed in winning this fight by supporting and being there for each other.
For the health and safety of our residents, we continue to implement all new Public Health directives immediately and put other best practices in place sooner whenever possible. Since the start of this pandemic, we have been stockpiling protective equipment and supplies, and diversifying our sources, to ensure we have a solid inventory of equipment and a strong supply chain, so equipment is ready and available, if and when it is required.
Heightened infection control and disinfecting measures and active screening procedures are currently in place and wwe continue to enforce physical distancing and restrict non-essential visitors from the building. In addition to active screening, all team members are now wearing face masks and all staff and residents are being monitored for any symptoms of the virus per the directives from Public Health.
This week Ontario extended its state of emergency for another 28 days, which ends on May 12. The bill to extend the measure passed during a special session at the provincial legislature. Premier Doug Ford says it is too soon to relax measures as the province continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Theresa Tam, the chief public health officer of Canada, says the overall curve is “bending” when it comes to the number of new infections being confirmed in Canada but the death rate is higher than expected and more than 90 per cent of the patients confirmed to have died from COVID-19 are over the age of 60, and half of them lived in long term care centres.
To be clear, our homes are not long term care centres, and as of today there have been very few outbreaks in retirement homes. More importantly, we have not had any cases in any of our homes. We believe the precautions we have taken are the reason we have not had any outbreaks, and we are doing everything we can to try and keep it that way. Therefore, we have made the difficult decision to extend our isolation policy until May 12th at which time we will re-evaluate things based on all of the information available at that time.
We do not want the residents to remain in isolation any longer than is absolutely necessary for their safety.
Our team has been busy adapting our meal programs based on the current isolation practices to continually improve the experience for our residents. Simon Pickess and our generous community partners at Blue Mountain Resort and Conference Centre will be providing each of our homes with equipment that will assist in our efforts to deliver hot, fresh, nutritional meals to each suite, 3 times a day. These are unprecedented circumstances, so we appreciate your patience as we adapt our resident services to the evolving situation.
We have introduced a program that provides all residents with some time outside for exercise and fresh air, several times a week. Using technology, we have also implemented creative ways to help residents and families connect virtually when physical visits aren’t possible. We are committed to doing everything we can to add normalcy, wherever possible, to everyone’s daily life while balancing the reality of this challenging and ever-changing situation.
We know that isolation can be very difficult for the mental health and emotional well-being of our residents and we are committed to ensuring people remain engaged and connected. We are providing activities that are self-directed, or those that allow residents to safely participate while practicing safe physical distancing. These activities vary by home and include doorway exercises, doorway bingo, rolling library, and daily cheer cart that offers residents an assortment of things to choose from including treats, word games, art supplies, trivia, brain teasers, etc. We are also providing residents with the ability to purchase essential goods directly from us through our suppliers.
Finally, we know that these precautionary measures are very different from the way we normally live and will take some time to adjust to. We greatly appreciate your support and cooperation. Like you, we look forward to returning to life as normal as soon as it is safe to. That being said, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
Please rest assured that we remain vigilant in our infection control policies and procedures and all of the decisions we make are being made with the guidance of health care professionals with the health and safety of our staff and residents in mind.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in us!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
We continue to face unprecedented times, with a global pandemic that is challenging us in ways we never could have anticipated. Nothing has been more inspiring than the way our staff, who provide care and services to those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19, have risen to the challenge while continuing to juggle the responsibilities in their personal lives. Our staff greatly appreciates all of the gratitude that has been expressed by the residents, families and our communities – they can never get enough praise or accolades for what they do, so please keep them coming (and don’t hesitate to get creative)!
We are likely to face greater challenges and demands in the days ahead, but we are confident we will succeed in winning this fight by supporting and being there for each other.
For the health and safety of our residents, we continue to implement all new Public Health directives immediately and put other best practices in place sooner whenever possible. Since the start of this pandemic, we have been stockpiling protective equipment and supplies, and diversifying our sources, to ensure we have a solid inventory of equipment and a strong supply chain, so equipment is ready and available, if and when it is required.
Heightened infection control and disinfecting measures and active screening procedures are currently in place and wwe continue to enforce physical distancing and restrict non-essential visitors from the building. In addition to active screening, all team members are now wearing face masks and all staff and residents are being monitored for any symptoms of the virus per the directives from Public Health.
This week Ontario extended its state of emergency for another 28 days, which ends on May 12. The bill to extend the measure passed during a special session at the provincial legislature. Premier Doug Ford says it is too soon to relax measures as the province continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Theresa Tam, the chief public health officer of Canada, says the overall curve is “bending” when it comes to the number of new infections being confirmed in Canada but the death rate is higher than expected and more than 90 per cent of the patients confirmed to have died from COVID-19 are over the age of 60, and half of them lived in long term care centres.
To be clear, our homes are not long term care centres, and as of today there have been very few outbreaks in retirement homes. More importantly, we have not had any cases in any of our homes. We believe the precautions we have taken are the reason we have not had any outbreaks, and we are doing everything we can to try and keep it that way. Therefore, we have made the difficult decision to extend our isolation policy until May 12th at which time we will re-evaluate things based on all of the information available at that time.
We do not want the residents to remain in isolation any longer than is absolutely necessary for their safety.
Our team has been busy adapting our meal programs based on the current isolation practices to continually improve the experience for our residents. Simon Pickess and our generous community partners at Blue Mountain Resort and Conference Centre will be providing each of our homes with equipment that will assist in our efforts to deliver hot, fresh, nutritional meals to each suite, 3 times a day. These are unprecedented circumstances, so we appreciate your patience as we adapt our resident services to the evolving situation.
We have introduced a program that provides all residents with some time outside for exercise and fresh air, several times a week. Using technology, we have also implemented creative ways to help residents and families connect virtually when physical visits aren’t possible. We are committed to doing everything we can to add normalcy, wherever possible, to everyone’s daily life while balancing the reality of this challenging and ever-changing situation.
We know that isolation can be very difficult for the mental health and emotional well-being of our residents and we are committed to ensuring people remain engaged and connected. We are providing activities that are self-directed, or those that allow residents to safely participate while practicing safe physical distancing. These activities vary by home and include doorway exercises, doorway bingo, rolling library, and daily cheer cart that offers residents an assortment of things to choose from including treats, word games, art supplies, trivia, brain teasers, etc. We are also providing residents with the ability to purchase essential goods directly from us through our suppliers.
Finally, we know that these precautionary measures are very different from the way we normally live and will take some time to adjust to. We greatly appreciate your support and cooperation. Like you, we look forward to returning to life as normal as soon as it is safe to. That being said, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
Please rest assured that we remain vigilant in our infection control policies and procedures and all of the decisions we make are being made with the guidance of health care professionals with the health and safety of our staff and residents in mind.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in us!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
April 17, 2020
To all managers and staff,
All of us at MTCO want to express our deepest gratitude and admiration for all that you are doing to care for our residents during this extraordinary and unprecedented time. Your commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents, families and your fellow team members is an inspiration to everyone in our communities.
During these times when we are told to stay at home, you show up every day to provide the essential services the residents need. Many of you are going the extra mile by picking up extra shifts and working long hours all while juggling responsibilities in your personal lives. Our residents, and their families, count on us to deliver those services in good times, and in bad, which is why they chose to live in our homes.
We are likely to face greater challenges and demands in the days ahead, but we are confident we will succeed in winning this fight by supporting and being there for each other.
The health and safety of our residents and team members is our top priority. We urge you to take every precaution necessary for your physical and mental well-being. Our commitment is to create a safe work environment for you and to keep you safe by providing you with the training, education, protective equipment and supplies you require. Please speak to your manager if you have any questions or suggestions.
For your safety, we continue to implement all new Public Health directives immediately and put other best practices in place sooner whenever possible. Since the start of this pandemic, we have been stockpiling protective equipment and supplies, and diversifying our sources, to ensure we have a solid inventory of equipment and a strong supply chain so that equipment is ready and available to all of you, if and when it is required.
We have also joined a purchasing group that represents the majority of the retirement homes in Canada to create a group with strong purchasing power. This group has now received the support of the Federal Government to import supplies dedicated for long term care and retirement homes from overseas. The government has also granted the group access to their cargo planes for transporting the supplies.
All of us at MTCO want to express our sincerest thanks and appreciation for all you are doing for residents and families during this time. We are extremely grateful for your dedication to serving our seniors and looking out for each other. Your heroic efforts during these extraordinary times is truly inspiring!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
To all managers and staff,
All of us at MTCO want to express our deepest gratitude and admiration for all that you are doing to care for our residents during this extraordinary and unprecedented time. Your commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents, families and your fellow team members is an inspiration to everyone in our communities.
During these times when we are told to stay at home, you show up every day to provide the essential services the residents need. Many of you are going the extra mile by picking up extra shifts and working long hours all while juggling responsibilities in your personal lives. Our residents, and their families, count on us to deliver those services in good times, and in bad, which is why they chose to live in our homes.
We are likely to face greater challenges and demands in the days ahead, but we are confident we will succeed in winning this fight by supporting and being there for each other.
The health and safety of our residents and team members is our top priority. We urge you to take every precaution necessary for your physical and mental well-being. Our commitment is to create a safe work environment for you and to keep you safe by providing you with the training, education, protective equipment and supplies you require. Please speak to your manager if you have any questions or suggestions.
For your safety, we continue to implement all new Public Health directives immediately and put other best practices in place sooner whenever possible. Since the start of this pandemic, we have been stockpiling protective equipment and supplies, and diversifying our sources, to ensure we have a solid inventory of equipment and a strong supply chain so that equipment is ready and available to all of you, if and when it is required.
We have also joined a purchasing group that represents the majority of the retirement homes in Canada to create a group with strong purchasing power. This group has now received the support of the Federal Government to import supplies dedicated for long term care and retirement homes from overseas. The government has also granted the group access to their cargo planes for transporting the supplies.
All of us at MTCO want to express our sincerest thanks and appreciation for all you are doing for residents and families during this time. We are extremely grateful for your dedication to serving our seniors and looking out for each other. Your heroic efforts during these extraordinary times is truly inspiring!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
April 3, 2020
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
The top medical professionals in Ontario reported the finding of their modelling today and the message is clear - Canadians need to work together and double-down on physical distancing efforts NOW to prevent the spread of the virus for the protection of themselves and others!
In an abundance of caution and with our residents’ health in mind, we have made the decision to isolate all residents to their suites for a period of two weeks, beginning at the end of dinner on Friday, April 3, 2020. This will be reviewed bi-weekly.
At this time, we believe that these precautionary measures are absolutely critical to keeping our residents and staff safe.
We will conduct Active Screening on all residents twice daily, in the morning and evening, including temperature checks. Wellness checks will continue to occur three times a day at each meal.
We will deliver all meals to residents’ suites. More detail about mealtimes and options, as well as other services will be provided as soon as possible.
We know that isolation can be very difficult for the mental health and emotional well-being of our residents and we are committed to ensuring people remain engaged and connected. We will provide activities that are self-directed or allow residents to safely participate while practicing safe physical distancing.
Remember, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
We know these are complicated times and understand that you may be worried about your friends and loved-ones. Please rest assured that we remain vigilant in our infection control policies and procedures. All decisions are being made with the guidance of health care professionals with the health and safety of our staff and residents’ in mind.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in us!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
The top medical professionals in Ontario reported the finding of their modelling today and the message is clear - Canadians need to work together and double-down on physical distancing efforts NOW to prevent the spread of the virus for the protection of themselves and others!
In an abundance of caution and with our residents’ health in mind, we have made the decision to isolate all residents to their suites for a period of two weeks, beginning at the end of dinner on Friday, April 3, 2020. This will be reviewed bi-weekly.
At this time, we believe that these precautionary measures are absolutely critical to keeping our residents and staff safe.
We will conduct Active Screening on all residents twice daily, in the morning and evening, including temperature checks. Wellness checks will continue to occur three times a day at each meal.
We will deliver all meals to residents’ suites. More detail about mealtimes and options, as well as other services will be provided as soon as possible.
We know that isolation can be very difficult for the mental health and emotional well-being of our residents and we are committed to ensuring people remain engaged and connected. We will provide activities that are self-directed or allow residents to safely participate while practicing safe physical distancing.
Remember, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
We know these are complicated times and understand that you may be worried about your friends and loved-ones. Please rest assured that we remain vigilant in our infection control policies and procedures. All decisions are being made with the guidance of health care professionals with the health and safety of our staff and residents’ in mind.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in us!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
April 1, 2020
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
The top medical professionals in Canada have advised that the next week will be a crucial time during which public health officials will start to see if the aggressive physical distancing measures have effectively slowed the spread of the coronavirus. Dr. Theresa Tam, the Chief Public Health Officer, is urging Canadians to double-down on physical distancing efforts to prevent the spread of the virus for the protection of themselves and others – seniors are most vulnerable, but all ages are at risk!
Since measures were taken on March 14, 2020 to restrict non-essential visitors from entering the homes, we have enjoyed the creative ways families and friends have found to visit and communicate with our residents, including visits outside our homes on our beautiful grounds. However, this has become such a popular activity that we are now having issues with too many people congregating on our grounds, thus making it difficult to practice safe physical distancing.
In an abundance of caution and with our residents’ health in mind, we have made the decision that non-essential visitors are restricted from visiting their loved-ones on our grounds and must limit their trips to the home to picking up and delivering personal laundry and delivering essential supplies ONLY, for the next two weeks, beginning Wednesday, April 1. This is in line with Premier Ford’s extension of the State of Emergency and will similarly be evaluated on bi-weekly basis. At this time, we believe that this is the right precautionary measure to keep our residents, staff and visitors safe.
This week, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David Williams, ramped up advice for all Ontarians to leave home only for essential reasons to help keep the coronavirus from spreading and jeopardizing the most vulnerable.
Essential reasons for leaving home are:
Williams is also “strongly recommending” anyone with a compromised immune system, underlying medical conditions or over age 70 begin self-isolating now and stay home to avoid increased risk of COVID-19.
We know that isolation can be very difficult for the mental health and emotional well-being of our residents and we are committed to ensuring people remain engaged and connected. We will provide activities that are self-directed or allow residents to safely participate while practicing safe physical distancing.
Finally, we know that these precautionary measures are very different from the way we normally live and will take some time to adjust to. We greatly appreciate your support and cooperation. Like you, we look forward to returning to life as normal as soon as it is safe to. That being said, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
We know these are complicated times and understand that you may be worried about your friends and loved-ones. Please rest assured that we remain vigilant in our infection control policies and procedures. All decisions are being made with the guidance of health care professionals with the health and safety of our staff and residents’ in mind.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in us!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
The top medical professionals in Canada have advised that the next week will be a crucial time during which public health officials will start to see if the aggressive physical distancing measures have effectively slowed the spread of the coronavirus. Dr. Theresa Tam, the Chief Public Health Officer, is urging Canadians to double-down on physical distancing efforts to prevent the spread of the virus for the protection of themselves and others – seniors are most vulnerable, but all ages are at risk!
Since measures were taken on March 14, 2020 to restrict non-essential visitors from entering the homes, we have enjoyed the creative ways families and friends have found to visit and communicate with our residents, including visits outside our homes on our beautiful grounds. However, this has become such a popular activity that we are now having issues with too many people congregating on our grounds, thus making it difficult to practice safe physical distancing.
In an abundance of caution and with our residents’ health in mind, we have made the decision that non-essential visitors are restricted from visiting their loved-ones on our grounds and must limit their trips to the home to picking up and delivering personal laundry and delivering essential supplies ONLY, for the next two weeks, beginning Wednesday, April 1. This is in line with Premier Ford’s extension of the State of Emergency and will similarly be evaluated on bi-weekly basis. At this time, we believe that this is the right precautionary measure to keep our residents, staff and visitors safe.
This week, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. David Williams, ramped up advice for all Ontarians to leave home only for essential reasons to help keep the coronavirus from spreading and jeopardizing the most vulnerable.
Essential reasons for leaving home are:
- For medical appointments
- Grocery shopping
- Picking up medications
- Walking pets
- Helping the vulnerable
Williams is also “strongly recommending” anyone with a compromised immune system, underlying medical conditions or over age 70 begin self-isolating now and stay home to avoid increased risk of COVID-19.
We know that isolation can be very difficult for the mental health and emotional well-being of our residents and we are committed to ensuring people remain engaged and connected. We will provide activities that are self-directed or allow residents to safely participate while practicing safe physical distancing.
Finally, we know that these precautionary measures are very different from the way we normally live and will take some time to adjust to. We greatly appreciate your support and cooperation. Like you, we look forward to returning to life as normal as soon as it is safe to. That being said, the more we do now to limit the spread, the sooner things will return to normal. We are all in this together!
We know these are complicated times and understand that you may be worried about your friends and loved-ones. Please rest assured that we remain vigilant in our infection control policies and procedures. All decisions are being made with the guidance of health care professionals with the health and safety of our staff and residents’ in mind.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in us!
Sincerely,
Steve Graham, President
March 25, 2020
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
We continue to have heightened precautionary infection control measures in place and continue to monitor the recommendations and directives from the provincial and federal governments, our sector regulators and local Public Health agencies for further guidance. We implement all new directives immediately, and put other best practices in place sooner whenever possible, to ensure the health and safety of our residents and staff.
The purpose of this letter is to provide you with the latest updates on additional measures we are taking, and proactive measures we can collectively take, during this time for the well-being of everyone.
We want to thank you for your cooperation and understanding regarding the mandate to only allow essential visitors in our homes. Restricting visitors is crucial to the health of our residents and staff. We appreciate the impact this can have on our residents and families.
On March 23, 2020, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health issued a directive to Long Term Care homes and Retirement homes stating that, “Residents of long-term care and retirement homes should not be permitted to leave the home for short- stay absences to visit family and friends. Instead, residents who wish to go outside of the home should remain on the home’s property and maintain safe social distancing from any family and friends who visit them.”
If you need to attend an outside appointment, which is essential for health reasons, then please do so. Upon return, residents will be screened after any absence from the building for any duration (including going for walks outside). Those who fail the screening will be placed in isolation following current Public Health protocols.
If you are picking up a loved one for an essential appointment, please confirm your appointment hasn’t been canceled directly with the service provider; and inform us in advance by phone so our staff can perform the active screening by phone and make arrangements to ensure the resident can meet their family/friend outside of the building and is greeted upon return to the home.
We are committed to the physical, mental and emotional well-being of our residents and staff. During this difficult time, the most important thing we can do is maintain contact with our loved ones. We encourage you to keep in touch with them by phone, text, email, video chat (Skype, Zoom or FaceTime) or other technologies that are available. And remember to send pictures to show them you’re doing well. If you sense that your loved one has any concerns, please let the General Manager know and we will do our best to address their needs.
Please continue to praise, encourage and support all of of our staff members and managers in any way you can. They are all committed to the well-being of the residents, and their colleagues, and are going the extra mile to maintain a positive and healthy environment.
Active screening of all essential visitors and staff continues to be conducted behind the entrance door. No essential visitors are allowed to enter the home unless they have passed the screening.
We are constantly monitoring our staffing levels to ensure our ability to deliver the services our residents require. We have partnered with several professional staffing agencies and are actively recruiting new staff in order to mitigate any potential for disruption to service due to staffing issues.
Thank you in advance for your understanding and compliance. The best way to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and community is by working together and following all directives from the medical professionals.
Please feel welcome to contact your General Manager if you have any questions. Our corporate management team and support staff are in constant communication with the general managers, so they are prepared and supported in dealing with the current situation.
Stay healthy and be well!
Sincerely,
John Woods, CEO
and
Steve Graham, President
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
We continue to have heightened precautionary infection control measures in place and continue to monitor the recommendations and directives from the provincial and federal governments, our sector regulators and local Public Health agencies for further guidance. We implement all new directives immediately, and put other best practices in place sooner whenever possible, to ensure the health and safety of our residents and staff.
The purpose of this letter is to provide you with the latest updates on additional measures we are taking, and proactive measures we can collectively take, during this time for the well-being of everyone.
We want to thank you for your cooperation and understanding regarding the mandate to only allow essential visitors in our homes. Restricting visitors is crucial to the health of our residents and staff. We appreciate the impact this can have on our residents and families.
On March 23, 2020, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health issued a directive to Long Term Care homes and Retirement homes stating that, “Residents of long-term care and retirement homes should not be permitted to leave the home for short- stay absences to visit family and friends. Instead, residents who wish to go outside of the home should remain on the home’s property and maintain safe social distancing from any family and friends who visit them.”
If you need to attend an outside appointment, which is essential for health reasons, then please do so. Upon return, residents will be screened after any absence from the building for any duration (including going for walks outside). Those who fail the screening will be placed in isolation following current Public Health protocols.
If you are picking up a loved one for an essential appointment, please confirm your appointment hasn’t been canceled directly with the service provider; and inform us in advance by phone so our staff can perform the active screening by phone and make arrangements to ensure the resident can meet their family/friend outside of the building and is greeted upon return to the home.
We are committed to the physical, mental and emotional well-being of our residents and staff. During this difficult time, the most important thing we can do is maintain contact with our loved ones. We encourage you to keep in touch with them by phone, text, email, video chat (Skype, Zoom or FaceTime) or other technologies that are available. And remember to send pictures to show them you’re doing well. If you sense that your loved one has any concerns, please let the General Manager know and we will do our best to address their needs.
Please continue to praise, encourage and support all of of our staff members and managers in any way you can. They are all committed to the well-being of the residents, and their colleagues, and are going the extra mile to maintain a positive and healthy environment.
Active screening of all essential visitors and staff continues to be conducted behind the entrance door. No essential visitors are allowed to enter the home unless they have passed the screening.
We are constantly monitoring our staffing levels to ensure our ability to deliver the services our residents require. We have partnered with several professional staffing agencies and are actively recruiting new staff in order to mitigate any potential for disruption to service due to staffing issues.
Thank you in advance for your understanding and compliance. The best way to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents, staff and community is by working together and following all directives from the medical professionals.
Please feel welcome to contact your General Manager if you have any questions. Our corporate management team and support staff are in constant communication with the general managers, so they are prepared and supported in dealing with the current situation.
Stay healthy and be well!
Sincerely,
John Woods, CEO
and
Steve Graham, President
March 24, 2020
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
Further guidelines and recommendations have come out from local Public Health departments regarding social distancing within retirement homes and non-essential outside of retirement homes.
Please know the well-being of our residents and staff remain our highest priority, with this in mind the following requirements will be implemented;
In accordance with comments from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, our goal, is to balance social distancing with socialization and to keep the virus out of our homes.
Thank you for your cooperation
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
Further guidelines and recommendations have come out from local Public Health departments regarding social distancing within retirement homes and non-essential outside of retirement homes.
Please know the well-being of our residents and staff remain our highest priority, with this in mind the following requirements will be implemented;
- A maximum of 50 people including staff will be allowed in the dining room at one time.
- All tables will be moved 6 feet apart with 2 residents sitting across from each other at each table.
- Tray service will be provided to all residents who choose to self isolate.
- No buffet style service is permitted.
- Activity participation will be limited to 10 people or less.
- Activities may be shorter in duration and more frequent.
- Popular activities may be offered more than once daily.
- Card games, board games and other close contact activities should be suspended.
- Social distancing should be encouraged during all activities by maintaining a distance of 6 feet between each resident and/or staff (eg; exercise class).
- We will provide a list of recommendations for in-suite activities that provide stimulation for those that are in voluntary or mandatory self isolation.
- All common areas and lounges, with the exception of the dining room, will be limited to a maximum of 10 people with 6 feet between each resident or staff.
- Residents should not be permitted to leave the home for short- stay absences to visit family and friends
- We strongly recommend that residents only be permitted to leave the home for essential purposes such as urgent medical appointments at this time.
- Residents who wish to go outside of the home should remain on the home’s property and maintain safe social distancing from any family and friends who visit them.
- Any resident leaving the building for any reason will require active screening upon return.
In accordance with comments from the Chief Medical Officer of Health, our goal, is to balance social distancing with socialization and to keep the virus out of our homes.
Thank you for your cooperation
March 23, 2020
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
Today, the Chief Medical Officer issued a directive outlining new precautions and procedures for long-term care facilities and retirement homes.
The directive, to be implemented immediately, says that residents are no longer permitted to leave the home for short-stay absences to visit family and friends.
Residents may go outside of the home, but must remain on the home’s property and practice Social Distancing by maintaining a distance of a minimum of two metres from other people at all times.
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
Today, the Chief Medical Officer issued a directive outlining new precautions and procedures for long-term care facilities and retirement homes.
The directive, to be implemented immediately, says that residents are no longer permitted to leave the home for short-stay absences to visit family and friends.
Residents may go outside of the home, but must remain on the home’s property and practice Social Distancing by maintaining a distance of a minimum of two metres from other people at all times.
