Protecting those most at-risk of COVID-19 in our community
Aged care facilities across Ballarat are working to protect patients and residents, as people over 70 and those aged 65 and older with chronic medical conditions are at a greater risk of more serious illness if they are infected with coronavirus.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Ballarat Aged Care has been proactive in putting in place precautionary measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus to residential facilities. These guidelines have been developed in line with directives from the Department of Health and Human Services and in consideration of the latest evidence in the management of COVID-19.
Ballarat Aged Care is well positioned to attend to residents' health care needs, with access to national experts in geriatric care working within Ballarat Health Services. As a Centre of Excellence in Aged Care, residents have access to registered nurses, specialised care from geriatricians, palliative care and rehabilitation consultants, and nurse practitioners.
Ballarat Health Services Executive Director of Aged Operations, Jodie Cranham said the pandemic had presented an opportunity for residents to learn new methods of communicating with their families.
"The health and safety of our residents is our priority, so while we have put visitation restrictions in place we are encouraging our residents to connect with their loved ones in other ways," said Jodie. "We've had a great response to our visitation alternatives, with residents learning to Skype, FaceTime, email and even returning to traditional letter writing.
"While our on-site volunteer programs have been suspended, some of our dedicated volunteers have put their hands up for a weekly Skype session with residents to help them stay connected."
As part of the precautionary measures, Ballarat Aged Care is encouraging families to limit their loved ones' exposure to the virus by nominating a key visitor for on-site visits. All visitors are screened for temperature and must wear a mask, practice hand hygiene and wear gloves on entry to any facilities.
Jodie thanked residents and their families for their patients throughout the coronavirus outbreak. "We know that this has been a trying situation for everyone, but we're also grateful to have a supportive community of families who understand that these restrictions are necessary to keep their loved ones safe," Jodie said. "This is a difficult time for many, and we are working with families to compassionately take individual circumstances into consideration."
As of 9 July, visits to Ballarat Aged Care facilities are limited to one person per visit of 30 minutes. Visiting hours are from noon to 5pm daily, and all visits must be scheduled in advance.
Ballarat Aged Care is part of Ballarat Health Services, and has been providing professional, quality aged care services to the Ballarat and Grampians regions for more than 150 years.
For further information visit ballaratagedcare.org.au.
