COVID-19 Impact to the Care Services Industry
Home Care and Aged Care providers have experienced significant challenges during this pandemic in a very difficult environment.
Service providers have been proactive in implementing and adapting to the ever-changing government policies, driven by the desire to provide optimal care whilst keeping their valued at home and residential care clients safe and supported.
NSW Government Health have implemented the following regulations, at least until 11.59pm on Wednesday 23 December 2020, with further updates to be announced on 23 December 2020:
Source: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/aged-care.aspx
· All staff providing care must wear a surgical mask during home visits or whilst in a residential aged care facility
· Exclusion of staff (and visitors) who;
o Have been in any of the locations on the self-isolate and get tested list OR monitor for symptoms list OR are a close contact of a person or in a household of anyone on these lists.
o Have a fever (37.5 degrees Celsius or higher) or symptoms of COVID-19.
· Residents from aged care facilities in NSW should not leave the facility to attend family gatherings and group excursions unless the visit is essential (such as a medical appointment).
· Ensure that legible records are kept of visitor and staff entry and exit onto the facility for contract tracing purposes.
· Minimise staff working across multiple settings.
· Reconsider the ways for residents and family to meet up during the festive season https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/industry-code-for-visiting-residential-aged-care-homes-during-covid-19
Senior Australians, their families and carers can call the OPAN Older Australians COVID-19 Support Line on 1800 171 866 for all matters relating to COVID-19 and the impacts it has on our seniors.
Another important aspect for our aging population is the need and desire for socialization. It is such an important aspect of our daily lives, to reduce increased risks of depression and anxiety. For those of you that know someone who is homebound, we encourage you to take the time during this holiday period to reach out to them; friends, family, and neighbours, to let them know you care.
Some wonderful activities to consider during this festive season are available in the link https://homecareassistance.com/blog/3-ways-to-help-homebound-seniors-keep-holiday-traditions
Our Aged Care team want to take this opportunity, as 2020 comes to a close, to recognise the amazing contribution made by all Aged Care and Health Care workers. This has been an extraordinary year!
The Rethink Aged Care Team, our clients and families are so very grateful for the way that these caring individuals have put themselves at risk and helped older people access vital aged care services during a period of concern and uncertainty.
We deeply appreciate how they have kept the most vulnerable people in our community safe and well cared for during such challenging times. You are all such blessings in so many people’s lives, thank you.