28 July 2021

RE: Updated Visitor Restrictions - Calvary Flora McDonald & St Catherine’s Retirement Communities, South Australia

Dear Resident or Family Member,

Yesterday, SA Health announced an easing of restrictions for residential aged care facilities given the stabilisation of risk of COVID-19 transmission in the community.

What does this mean for residents and families?

Consistent with the latest SA Health advice, effective immediately, Calvary is making the following changes: 

• A maximum of two (2) visitors will be permitted at a time and visits must be undertaken in the resident’s room. 
• Staff and visitors will be required to wear a mask within the facility. 
• Social/physical distancing of a one persons per four (4) square metres and 1.5 metres separation must be observed at all times. 

Consistent with previous advice: 

• People who are from interstate are requested to review the SA health website and adhere to the public health orders. If you have been to one of these states in the past 14 days please speak with the manager before you arrive at the home. 
  • Exceptions may apply for visitors of residents at end of life, or who may be experiencing distress, or where a care and support role is provided by a visitor. Please speak with the manager of your home to discuss arrangements. 
  • Visitors must not enter a Calvary home if they:
  • have been to any close or casual contact exposure locations or interstate places of high concern 
  • have COVID-19 symptoms including fever of 37.5°C or higher; 
  • are a close contact of a person with confirmed COVID-19 and are within their self-isolation period; 
  • live in a household with a person who is currently self-isolating; or 
  • are waiting for a COVID-19 test result. 
• Screening questions and temperature checks for all visitors and staff will continue. 
• Hand hygiene is important. Remember to please use the hand sanitiser stations at the entrance and throughout the facility regularly. 
• Seasonal influenza vaccination is required for all persons over six (6) months prior to entry. Evidence will be required. If an exemption for this is required please speak with the manager. 

Please don’t hesitate to contact the manager of your home should you have any questions or would like to discuss the individual care needs of your loved one.

If you are unable to visit at this time, we remind and encourage you to contact the facility to arrange a Webex video call with your loved one. 

Thank you for your continued understanding and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Martin Bowles, National CEO

Sharon Kendall, Regional CEO SA