COVID-19 Update

For up to date information on the Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) you can use the following links: The Government of Alberta or Alberta Health Services

• July 23, 2020 – Safe Visitation Package
• April 7, 2020 – Minister of Health Instructions for Visitation
• March 25, 2020 – AHS Instructions for Hospice Visitation
• March 25, 2020 – Exceptions for Visitation Restrictions at End-of-Life

We are adhering to all orders issued by the Chief Medical Officer of Health, including those related to visitation. Residents continue to be among the most vulnerable to severe effects from COVID-19. An increase in visitors to our centres also increases the risk of transmission. Visitors can enter continuing care and supportive living centres in limited instances only. There are several aspects of visitation outlined in the orders:

Designated essential visitor

• Residents, their guardian, or alternate decision maker must identify a designated essential visitor who, when required, can assist in the quality of life or care needs of a resident when those needs cannot be met by staff
  • The designated essential visitor is a single adult individual who can be a family member, friend, or companion
  • The site contact will ensure the designated essential visitor meets the requirements
  • If the designated essential visitor is unable to perform their role for a period of time, the resident may identify a temporary designated essential visitor
  • Designated essential visitors are not meant to change frequently

Virtual visits

• We encourage virtual visits for the health and wellbeing of residents and families; it is so important for residents and families to connect to hear each other’s voices, talk about the news of the day, and share stories
• We have purchased iPads to assist with virtual visits
• Please contact the site with questions about setting up virtual visits
• Instructions for Virtual Visits

Outdoor visitation

• Residents can enjoy outdoor visits with up to two other individuals, one of whom must be the designated essential visitor.
• There are several stipulations for outdoor visits that must be followed:

• • Visits must be requested by the designated essential visitor or the resident
  • Visits must be pre-arranged and scheduled with the sites
  • Visits can have a maximum of three people—the resident, the designated essential visitor, and one other
  • Outdoor visits must practice social distancing; everyone must be a minimum of six feet away from one another
  • Everyone involved with outdoor visits will be screened and must wear masks continuously
  • Visitors are responsible for bringing their own masks; masks must fit well and cover the nose and mouth
  • Visitors must remain outside and cannot enter the building
  • Visits are dependent on staff availability
  • If the outdoor space can only be accessed from within the building visitors will need to undergo complete screening and instruction on proper use of personal protective equipment
  • A resident who is in isolation cannot participate in outdoor visits

• Outdoor visitation will not be permitted if the centre is experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak

 We must maintain all precautions and be thoughtful about how best to facilitate the outdoor visitations that minimizes risk to both residents and staff. Considerations include extra required staffing, scheduling, physical distancing, and ease of access to green space.

It is important for families to assess the benefit of the outdoor visits for your loved one and for yourselves in terms of physical health, safety, and emotional wellbeing.

If you are considering taking your loved one home, please contact your Site Administrator to talk through options. There are several considerations for you to think through so that you can make an informed decision.

All Covenant Care staff are screened when they report to work: they complete the Alberta Health Services questionnaire and have their temperature taken. Any employee who has any symptoms associated with COVID-19 refrains from coming to work, is swabbed for COVID-19, and self-isolates for 14 days.

We are adhering to all protocols and directives issued by the Chief Medical Officer of Health to protect residents and staff. This includes:

• Increasing sanitization and disinfecting throughout the centres
• Screening staff when they arrive for work
• Monitoring residents very closely for any symptoms
• Coordinating recreation and other activities to practice physical distancing
• Continuously masking while on site
• Isolating residents who are symptomatic until tests are received

Our leadership team meets daily to discuss new protocols and talk through concerns. We are in constant communication with the provincial government and Alberta Health Services to ensure we are aware of the most up-to-date information, evidence, and public health recommendations.

Volunteer programs are temporarily suspended to limit the number of people in our centres. We miss the support of our volunteers and look forward to welcoming you back.