Aged care home reviews future in-person visits

A Woy Woy aged care provider is reviewing the way it will manage in-person visits once the facility re-opens to visitors.

"We have had some enquiries regarding booking the 'I See U' program when we are allowed to re-open to visitors," said chief executive Mr Matt Downie.

The program operated before the recent lockdown.

It allowed "residents and family to see each other and talk to each other while maintaining safe social distancing via the use of tables between our residents and visitors", he said.

"This ensures social distancing measures are safely maintained, however allows loved ones to see each other in person."

Mr Downie said that, to be fair to all, the visits were limited to no more than 30 minutes, and no more than one visit a week, Monday to Friday, 9am to 2:30pm.

He said that "in response to some concerns raised", the number of visitors each resident could receive in a visit would also be limited "should that be the only option for a face to face visit once we re-open".

"We will provide information around this once we have clarity as to when we can re-open to visitors.

"NSW Health have decided to continue to instruct aged care facilities in Sydney and Central Coast to remain closed to all visitors.

"We are very mindful this is difficult for all involved, but we do need to operate in line with NSW Health directions."

Mr Downie said: "We continue to offer Facetime and Skype type calls, and phone calls as additional means for family to keep in touch with loved ones."

Bookings could be made via reception.

SOURCE:

Social media, 13 Sep 2020

Matt Downie, BlueWave Living