New Jersey Now Allows Outdoor Visits to Nursing and Assisted-Living Communities

New Jersey health officials announced that assisted-living communities in the state were allowed to hold outdoor in-person visits with residents in designated spaces starting this past Sunday, June 21, reports WPVI-TV . A staffer wearing a mask is required to stay with the resident during the visit, all parties must consent that they are aware of the risks and agree to follow safety rules, and visitors must remain six feet away. "A resident who has tested positive is allowed visitation after they have met the criteria for discontinuation of their isolation," said New Jersey Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli on June 19. Staff at the Allegria at the Fountains assisted-living community in Atco said although they are excited about the visits, they will conduct rigorous screenings for all visitors. They say out of about 400 residents, they had five COVID-19 cases during the pandemic, and they do not want any more.