Aged Care restrictions helping to stay COVID safe

While Newcastle and the broader Hunter region is currently Coronavirus-free, our team remain vigilant around our older clients and mindful of the aged care restrictions that remain in place.

Newcastle and Hunter Community Health believe it is important we reassure our clients and their families that while the virus remains present in any part of Australia, we will continue to exercise strict hygiene practices.

People aged 70 years and over, and people 65 years and over who have a chronic illness, are at greater risk of serious illness if they encounter coronavirus. Given these demographics make up most of our clientele, we believe it’s timely to reiterate the measures we have in place to minimise risk.

NHCH staff daily checklist

As aged care workers, NHCH staff understand it is critical they do everything they can to protect themselves from COVID-19. This is important for the health of everyone they come into contact with, especially the people they care for.

Each day our staff follow the Six Steps to Stop the Spread as advised by health and government officials. They need to answer a resounding ‘Yes!’

  1. Are you feeling well?
  2. Have you stayed away from people who are unwell?
  3. Is your flu vaccination up to date?
  4. Have you washed your hands?
  5. Have you completed COVID-19 training for aged care workers?
  6. Do you know how and when to use personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Our team also has in place enhanced hygiene practices during home visits with our clients.

Restrictions at aged care facilities

We also want to reiterating the steps being taken to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 to residents in aged care facilities.

The NSW Department of Health advises:

  • Limit visits to a short duration.
  • Limit visits to a maximum of two visitors at any one time.
  • No large group visits or gatherings, including social activities or entertainment (including school groups of any size).
  • Visits should be held in the resident’s room, outdoors, or in a specific designated area, rather than in communal areas.
  • All visitors should have up to date vaccination against influenza.

If you want to learn more about how we can support you throughout COVID-19, get in touch today