24 June 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
I am writing to provide you with an update on your loved one’s aged care centre.
I am sad to advise that one of our Greenwell Gardens residents who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 sadly passed away yesterday. The woman, who was on a palliative pathway prior to testing positive to COVID-19 and had been receiving additional support from palliative specialists, was unfortunately challenged by her COVID-19 symptoms throughout her diagnosis. Our thoughts are with her family and friends as they mourn the loss of their loved one, including our Greenwell Gardens residents and staff who are understandably saddened by her passing.
Test results
All results of yesterday’s tests of residents in Callala House and Currarong House have been received and they are all negative.
In other news, 4 of our COVID-19 positive residents reached their recovery criteria yesterday and are now enjoying being able to move more freely around the aged care centre.
Residents diagnosed with COVID-19 continue to experience a range of symptoms, while others are still relatively symptom-free.
Our Lifestyle team are continuing to support the wellbeing of all residents at the aged care centre and today will be conducting one on one visits, delivering activities of interest to residents who would like this.
Visiting arrangements and the wearing of PPE
A reminder to reconsider your visit at this time or the need to take your loved one out of the centre. If you do proceed please assist staff by complying with the following:
- Do not bring children under 12 years of age to the aged care centre.
- Residents will be permitted 2 visitors only by appointment.
- All visitors will be asked to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test before entering the care centre.
- All visitors will be asked to wear all necessary PPE while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and a face shield which will be provided on entry.
- Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19 positive will also be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- Please co-operate with staff if they ask you to adjust your PPE so that it is worn correctly. They are working to ensure the safety of all our residents and to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading within the centre.
- If you do take your loved one on an outing please be mindful of the risks within the broader community and be aware that your loved one will be required to complete a rapid antigen test on their return to the centre.
Please do not visit the care centre if you are unwell with even the mildest symptoms. Even if you have tested negative for COVID-19 you could have influenza which is also highly contagious.
Please pass this information on to others in your family as you consider appropriate.
If you have any questions please contact your Care Manager.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely,
Nia Briguglio
EGM – Aged Care Centres
