The number of visitors allowed to see loved ones at care homes is set to increase this week.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said up to three outdoor visitors from two households would be allowed.
Infection control measures, including face coverings and physical distancing, will need to be in place.
And homes have to meet strict criteria beore visits are allowed.
It comes after a petition was launched by an East Kilbride woman calling on one designated family member into care homes with immediate effect, which has reached more than 1600 signatures so far.
Natasha Hamilton, whose mum has advanced dementia, is in a home in the town.
She feels garden visits do not go far enough to address the needs of residents or families – who are a vital part of loved ones’ care.
She said: “Yes, we need to protect them but we also need to look out for the emotional and mental well being.
“Dementia can effect people in so many ways and the lack of family interaction can cause great decline.
“Why can’t we allow one nominated family member per resident to visit safely using PPE? We are part of the overall car package. Before COVID family members helped provide hands on care to their loved ones – and if a family member is seeing to a loved one, it means it frees staff up to help wherever else they are needed.
“I recognise how difficult this is but I believe it’s about care homes and families working together to find a more practical way for going forward as we simply don’t know how long this is going to last.”
The Scottish government said “essential visits” - including those involving end-of-life care, and visits for residents who are experiencing distress - have been permitted throughout the pandemic and would continue.
Ms Freeman said : “Care homes are first and foremost people’s homes and we are committed to reintroducing measures that allow residents to connect with their family and friends. But this must be done safely and with precautions,” she said.
“Progress has been made since we reintroduced one designated outdoor visitor earlier this month, and I am pleased the clinical advice is now that care homes that meet the strict criteria can now allow residents to have up to three outdoor visitors from no more than two households.”
Care home providers have also been asked to develop plans on how they can allow one designated visitor for residents indoors.
Plans for indoor visiting will need to be signed off by the local health board by August 24.
To sign Natasha’s petition go to www.change.org/Allow-Designated-Visits-By-Family-Carers-Into-Care-Homes.
