23rd December 2024
Dear Residents, Family and Friends,
Falalalala…lalala…only 2 more sleeps till we celebrate Christmas 2024 and hear the sounds of parcels being unwrapped and family memories being shared. It is such a delightful time of year and a good time to reflect on the why we celebrate the birth of Jesus over 2000 years ago.
“And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. “ Luke 2:10-11. Now that is something to celebrate !
Let me take this opportunity to welcome our new residents and families to our Maroba Community and to wish all our residents and families a most special Christmas and may your hopes and dreams come to pass in 2025.
I am very pleased to report that residents who recently experienced Covid have all recovered and are back into the social program and mixing with family and friends once again.
Our local Public Health Unit have just updated us this morning with not so positive news. “Unfortunately, as predicted, COVID-19 indicators have continued to gradually increase over the last few weeks, and activity is now at a moderate level. Influenza and RSV activity is stable at a low level.”
We have certainly noted an increase in Covid numbers over the past week in the community and @ Maroba and as Christmas is upon us we are doing all we can to keep residents and employees safe. We ask that you do not visit if you are unwell or have respiratory symptoms. Keep testing before you visit and make sure you remind other family members of the requirement for RAT testing to visit Maroba. The option to wear a mask is something to think about if you wish to protect yourself in the event that you are Immunocompromised.
Current COVID guidelines at Maroba:
For Residents
- Residents undergo a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) when they are symptomatic and if there has been an exposure to a Covid positive person or if there is high risk within our community. PCR testing is being carried out if the covid Rat is negative for residents with ongoing symptoms. If an outbreak occurs then all residents in that area will undergo testing for respiratory illness. as an additional precaution on this Friday 27th Dec we will conduct full site Covid testing as a precaution as we have many residents going out and many visitors coming in over the public holidays. Please know that if your family member tests positive we will update you as soon as possible by phone.
For Visitors
- all regular visitors need only undertake a RAT test once a week unless you have been travelling, attending large events or have been exposed to any person with Covid or other Respiratory Infection. I suggest it be on your first visit of the week being Monday to Sunday. All other visitors who are not regularly visiting we ask that you undertake a RAT prior to every visit. RATs are available at Reception and at the front door.
- 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 restrictions on the number of visitors to Non Covid effected residents.
- 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…please be patient! 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.
For Staff, Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff & Students
- Our staff, volunteers, students and Agency Staff will continue to RAT test as per staff notices before coming onsite at Maroba.
- Volunteers, Contractors, Agency Staff, and Students will continue to check in using CoolGard.
In other news with Christmas quickly approaching we include a reminder about letting us know what your plans are for Christmas with your Loved one.
If you are planning to take any residents out during the period, 24th December 2024 – 1st January 2025, we would appreciate if you complete the on-line Day Excursion by 10am on 24th for the benefit of our new residents and families. All other forms should already be submitted. https://www.maroba.com.au/external-day-excursions-risk-assessment-form/
All residents remaining at Maroba will be treated to a lovely festive Christmas luncheon with our staff ensuring the day will be special and I may just see you during my Christmas Day visit.
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. NB: Reception will be closed over all Public Holidays as well as 26th Dec.
Warm Regards
Viv Allanson OAM
CEO Maroba
2024.12.23 #191 December Christmas Pl