As we adjust to life during and after the global health pandemic, it is vital that we continue deliver in-home aged care and specialist support for people living with disability.
Maitland Meals on Wheels and Beresfield Community Care are two organisations dedicated to providing ongoing support as we navigate through the recovery phase of COVID-19.
Regional Manager of Maitland Community Services, Megan Smith, said their team has been supporting the local community for decades, with now being an important time to step up their game.
“The need for practical support for vulnerable members of the community has never been so crucial,” Megan explained.
Increased hygiene protocols, additional personal protective equipment and social distancing measures have been adopted to ensure the health and safety of clients and staff, across a range of services including domestic assistance, transport, personal care, and the delivery of Meals on Wheels.
One way the not-for-profit organisations have responded is by doing the grocery shopping on behalf of their clients.
Groceries are obviously essential, and not everyone has access to online shopping. Pre COVID-19, clients would usually shop with the assistance a trained support worker.
“Given the lockdown restrictions and the advice to stay home, we have been able to do the grocery shopping for our clients, keeping them safe and giving them peace of mind,” Megan said.
“One of the most important services we continue to provide is transport for medical appointments and treatment. Consultations can be done via telehealth, however it’s important that regular health monitoring and treatment continue.
“We have introduced strict hygiene protocols for our drivers and our passengers, including restricting passengers to one person only.”
Their Meals on Wheels service has also adopted stricter hand hygiene protocols with volunteer drivers and delivery personnel practicing social distancing when delivering the meals.
For everyone’s peace of mind, all staff and volunteers have undergone the Federal Government’s Infection Control Training COVID-19, regardless of their role within the organisation.
The aged care sector is still home to some of the most vulnerable to COVID-19, so continued support in what is being deemed as the recovery phase is still important.
Subsidised services are available to people under 65 through the NDIS or via My Aged Care for anyone over 65.
IMAGE | Social outing – fun on the bus with Maitland Community Care Services. Please note this image was taken prior to COVID-19 and social distancing rules.