COVID 19 News

As the impact of COVID-19 is becoming more understood, it has had an impact on how we go about our day to day lives.  This is especially relevant for our residents and the staff who care for them. We have had to impose restrictions, but these relate more to those who wish to visit than to our residents.

It is important to note that we have not imposed strict lock down procedures within the facility and that all activities for the residents are continuing. Other than those that required external visitors. We are still having the doctor visit each Tuesday and are conducting tele health session where necessary for other appointments. The physiotherapist and podiatrist are also still attending to provide care for residents.

Whilst we understand that visits through the windows or using modern technology are not ideal, but they do help in keeping our residents safe. And the patience and understanding of our families and friends has been nothing short of amazing. This support is appreciated.

Other things implemented include:

• Flu shots for all staff, or alternatively the wearing of full PPE.
• Proof of flu shots for all contractors who need to be on site.
• Restricting who is on site.
• Temperature checks for all people entering the site.
• Completion of a questionnaire for everyone entering (excluding staff).
• Ensuring that no-one who is displaying any symptoms of cold or flu is on location.

As a management team we are looking at other options for visits and this is likely to include more visits for residents. But these will need to be in a very controlled manner and will be completed using a booking system. This is so that we can continually keep the area used for visits clean and tidy and keep the number of visitors on site to a manageable level. 

We are mindful that we are approaching flu season and our primary concern is for resident welfare, but we also recognise the need for social contact with families and the benefits that this provides for both the resident and family member.  

If you have specific concerns these can be sent to [email protected] and we will get back to you.

For further information, please visit the below websites:

•    Department of Health - https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert

•    Residential and Aged Care Workers - https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-health-care-and-residential-care-workers

•    Aged Care Residents and their Families - https://www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-resources#for-aged-care-residents-and-families