. On Saturday, Ontario reported a total of 79 outbreaks in long-term care homes in the province. Numerous facilities have put out public calls for staffing help, saying they are unable to meet residents’ needs.
“[Workers] are scared, that’s why they are walking away … because they may not have the appropriate PPE in the home," she said.She said some employment agencies are now offering up to $30 an hour for PSWs in long-term care homes, compared to average wages of around $18-21. One home-care company is offering $35 an hour to work with COVID-19 patients.
Ms. Savelli’s mother does not have COVID-19 but her family has resigned themselves to the reality that she will likely fall ill. “This is what will probably take her,” she said. “If she gets this, I doubt very much that she will be able to work through it.” Ms. Coyle said her family thought medically-trained military staff could help with sanitizing, containment, or even meal preparation. “At what point does it become a worst-case scenario?” Ms. Coyle said.
People need jobs, why not pay them
SOSsaveOurSeniors Family and hired private caregivers filled the care gap before COVID-19. Now they're locked out. Why recruit volunteers when the family and private caregivers can do it? You just have to screen them, give them PPE and let them in. Better for the seniors.