COVID-19 is radically reshaping our daily experiences in ways that we could scarcely have imagined even a week or two ago. At this time, all of us who work in aged care are highly conscious of our responsibilities in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of older people receiving aged care and services.

Protecting vulnerable communities

International evidence tells us older people, and particularly those with chronic illness, are most likely to be seriously affected if they contract COVID-19, and for some, this might lead to premature death.

As you would be aware, to help protect vulnerable communities, the Commonwealth Government has adopted recommendations of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) – the key national decision-making committee for health emergencies – regarding restrictions on visits to residential aged care services. The Commonwealth Department of Health has subsequently issued guidance on the Department of Health website to help you implement the new provisions.

Read more:

COVID-19 – A message to approved providers of residential aged care services from the Commissioner (.pdf)