COLUMBUS, Ohio — With assisted living residential facilities having been closed to visitors since mid-March due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it's the day many Ohioans have been waiting for.
Starting Monday, June 8, outdoor visitations are permitted at assisted living facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine cited the following factors as the reasons for his decision, which was announced back on May 28:
- The impact on the quality of life a prolonged loss of connection can have on an individual
- Requests from families and residents.
- Consultation with advocates and providers
Guidelines for visitation were jointly developed by the Academy for Senior Health Sciences, LeadingAge Ohio, Assisted Living Ohio, OHCA and the Ohio Medical Director’s Association. DeWine noted visitation is still not allowed at nursing homes and that the state is still determining when they will make an advisement on that front.