New federal guidelines now allow family members to visit loved ones in long-term care facilities, and that’s leading to emotional reunions across the country. Northern Virginia Bureau Reporter Drew Wilder shows the moment an Arlington County woman saw her son and daughter-in-law for the first time in a year.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new guidance allowing visitors into long-term care facilities has led to emotional reunions.
In Arlington County, Virginia, 97-year-old Mary Cavanaugh has finally seen her son Mike Cavanaugh and daughter-in-law Marie Cavanaugh after more than a year.
They’re all fully vaccinated, and with strong hugs and kisses, they were able to reunite as a family at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads.
“We've been looking forward to this day so much,” said Marie.
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The CDC now says nursing homes should allow visitors indoors for all residents regardless of vaccination status — though, gathering outside is recommended when it's possible.
The vaccinated population in D.C. may be overestimated in this map because some non-residents who work in D.C. are included in the totals.
Mary will be celebrating her 98th birthday in two weeks and can spend it together with her family.
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At Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads, more than 99% of residents and 90% of staff are fully vaccinated.
Goodwin House also said it welcomes the new CDC guidance but will slowly transition back to regular visits, out of an abundance of caution.
