Pre-Anzac Day Message
Hi everyone
As we come to the end of Level 4 restrictions and enter Level 3 on Tuesday April 28, 2020 a gradual return to work for many will be welcomed.
While there are encouraging signs that we are on the path to some sort of normality, sadly that’s not the case for us.
Aged residential care remains New Zealand’s most vulnerable group to contracting COVID-19 and we all have seen the devastation that happens when one person in a facility contracts this virus.
To put it in perspective, 59% of New Zealand’s current deaths are directly related to residents who were in aged care facilities.
The sector is also a major source that contributes to significant clusters here and overseas.
The Ministry of Health has advised that all aged residential care facilities are to remain locked down during Level 3.
https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-current-situation/health-and-disability-services-alert-level-3/alert-level-3-questions-and-answers#visiting
Can I visit family or friends in residential aged care facilities?
There will be no general family visits allowed under Alert Level 3, due to increased risk for residents and staff.
Only family visits for end of life/palliative care residents are allowed, but on a case-by-case basis, subject to public health direction and provider assessment.
Visits are by appointment only and with a maximum of one family member visiting at one time.
When visiting, it is important to follow Alert Level 3 precautions such as good hand hygiene and physical distancing of two metres.
Therefore, now is not the time to drop our guard and the measures that we have put in place are for the benefit our residents, staff and your loved ones.
Linda and I must protect our facility “bubble” and as hard as it is to deny access, we must continue to take every step to keep everyone safe.
When it is announced that we are moving to Level 2, we will provide a further update on potentials visits, etc.
In the meantime, have a great Anzac Day, stay safe and let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Kind Regards
ALLAN SARGEANT