27th March 2024
Dear Residents, Family and Friends,
So far so Good !!!!
Since lifting mask arrangements, I am delighted to report that we have not had any new cases of COVID amongst our resident population. We have had 1 case of RSV requiring isolation. Only 2 staff COVID cases have been reported since the No Mask approach, however they were not in the building during their infectious period.
Everyone’s efforts to maintain good hand hygiene, social distancing wherever possible, coughing and sneezing etiquette and RAT testing upon every visit to Maroba has really made a difference to everyone’s safety. If we can keep this up residents and staff will be cheering as it has been over 4 years that we have had to wear masks, and everyone is enjoying the freedom. Mind you, every time I leave my office my hand reaches for the mask, and I certainly feel underdressed without it. It’s hard to break such a long-held practice.
On another positive note in line with other Covid measures we have decided to remove the requirement for the Excursion Form. Of course, it is important to give the Reg Nurse notice that you are taking your loved one out so they can have everything ready. Be sure to let staff know as you depart and return to the building so everyone can be accounted for. The form may still be on our website however you do not need to complete it as from now.
Covid is still active throughout the nation and locally so please continue to take extra precautions to protect yourselves and others by staying away if you have any symptoms of infectious illness such as colds and Gastrointestinal disturbance. Please be cautious if you have returned from holidays or have attended large public events. We will continue to monitor numbers within the community and of course if numbers start to escalate again we will consider reinstating measures as required.
Current COVID guidelines at Maroba:
For Residents
- Residents only undergo a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) when they are symptomatic and if there has been an exposure to a Covid positive person. This may escalate if other areas are impacted.
For Visitors
- All visitors must undertake a RAT before visiting Maroba – if you visit on a daily basis please ensure a RAT is performed every 2nd Please write the date of the test on the RAT cartridge before taking a photo or placing it in a secure clear bag. Keep a photo of your RAT test on your phone as proof and present it to reception or a staff member after hours. Free RAT kits are still available at our reception, please feel free to take some home to test before your visit. Do not leave the kits in your car as they must be kept at a cool stable temperature to be effective.
- No longer any restrictions on the number of visitors. You are welcome to use common areas and may enjoy refreshments together inside during your visit.
- There are no visiting hours however for the safety of our residents the doors are locked from sunset until sunrise. During these times visitors access is by pressing the call button at the entrance, so a staff member is aware of your arrival and can let you in. Dinner commences around 5.00pm and after dinner residents are usually settling in for the night. Arrangements can be made with staff if you are taking your loved one out during these hours to have easy access on your return.
- Check in using the Cool Gard System is no longer mandatory for visitors but please show your RAT photo to reception.
- Please don’t visit if unwell or Covid Positive or if you have been in contact with a Covid positive person in the last seven days. Please let us know so we can assess the risk.
For Staff, Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff & Students
- Our staff, volunteers, students and Agency Staff will continue to RAT test each time before coming onsite at Maroba.
- Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff, and Students will continue to check in using our CoolGard System.
If you have concerns with our approach, please call us to discuss. Alternatively, you can contact:
- Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600
- The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission on 1800 951 822
- Senior Rights Service 1800 424 079
For additional information, please contact reception at 4935 0300 during office hours or email us at enquiries@maroba.om.au.
The Maroba family is thinking of you over this Easter break, trusting you will have special moments with loved ones and even those you have been disconnected from. It’s a time to reflect on the message of LOVE that is conveyed from that old rugged cross…Unconditional Love offered to all of us …” For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16