7 October 2020
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
This is just a short update to let you know that we have again recorded negative test results for all residents and staff who were tested yesterday 6 October. This round of testing included residents who had previously tested positive to COVID-19 who have all now tested negative. All residents at Woornack have now received a COVID-19 clearance from the Public Health Unit (PHU).
At this stage it looks likely that ‘enhanced surveillance will commence mid October. As a reminder ‘enhanced surveillance’ is the last stage prior to the Home receiving full clearance. We are very much looking forward to ‘enhanced surveillance’ as this enables residents to freely move around the Home, have meals in the dining room and socialise with others, whilst maintaining social distancing and practicing hand hygiene.
With the majority of Woornack’s staff having returned to work now, residents are responding very well to their familiar faces, and are looking forward to participating fully in the life of the Home once again. I would like to remind you that the Social Worker, Lorraine Li, is available Monday to Friday to meet with residents and to talk to families if that is required.
Telephone and video conferencing will continue, as well as family visits for compassionate reasons – this can be arranged with the Manager.
If you or your family would like independent support during this difficult time, please reach out to OPAN (Older Persons Advisory Network) on 1800 237 981. They are available 6am-10pm, 7 days a week. The other organisation that can assist you is Elder Rights Advocacy Victoria who can be reached on 1800 171 866 for support and advice.
Please contact the staff at the Home on 9312 0111 if you or your family member have any questions or concerns. In addition, you are welcome to contact us via the email address covid19questions@dgas.org.au. A reminder again to pass this letter onto other family members or refer them to the Doutta Galla website www.dgas.org.au/coronavirus-updates/.
Yours sincerely,
Vanda Iaconese
CEO
