Challenges facing Canadian Long-Term Care Homes and Retirement Homes during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

COVID-19 presented a crisis for long-term care homes (LTCHs) and retirement homes (RHs). This study explored the pandemic-related challenges LTCHs and RHs faced and the strategies they used to mitigate them. Ninety-one key informant interviews were conducted with LTCH and RH leadership across 47 homes (33 LTCHs, 14 RHs) in Ontario, Canada from February 2021 to July 2022. Findings confirmed evidence for three main challenges. First, leaders were challenged to implement infection prevention and control protocols and measures. Second, they needed supports to facilitate COVID-19 vaccine access and to promote vaccine confidence. Third, LTCH/RH staff experienced significant well-being challenges in the face of COVID-19 pressures. Findings also reveal a plethora of strategies implemented by homes, with ranging reports of perceived success. Homes’ needs evolved rapidly as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed. The use of a co-creation, responsive and tailored approach to address evolving barriers and meaningfully support homes during emergencies is recommended.Key pointsCOVID-19 challenges in homes persisted over one year into the pandemicWe describe the IPAC, vaccine and wellness challenges faced by LTCH and RHWe used these data to design a congregate care home support program to navigate COVID-19 challenges