The tragedy waiting to happen in our care homes

My grandmother, who has suffered from a major stroke, is bed ridden and barely compos mentis. She no longer has the cognitive ability to enjoy the relative intimacy of video calls on WhatsApp from well-wishers, or the simple pleasure of a Skype call with close family and friends. During this period of social distancing, her loneliness – now that visitors are not permitted in the home to prevent infection – is heart-breaking. A comforting hug or kiss on the cheek, in the brief windows when she is awake, is out of the question. Even a carer tucking her in at night could be fatal.

Naturally, those with vulnerable relatives like mine – especially over the age of seventy and looked after by the social care system – are more worried than ever. Family members with loved ones in a home not only fear them catching the disease, but also the risks posed to the carers looking after them.