As you are aware, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation continues to evolve. With this in mind, we all need to play our part by following the advice of health authorities. At this time it is still possible, and perhaps more important than ever, to invite a carer or support worker into your home. A carer can also help you make the most of short trips out of the home to collect and stock up on essential groceries, and even accompany you during dedicated shopping hours for seniors and those living with disabilities.
It is important to be aware of the latest government advice regarding isolation and social distancing measures, as well as practicing thorough hand-washing to protect yourself and those entering your home. We have some important resources to help keep you informed, as well as information that has been made available in different languages.
General Advice
The Australian Government Department of Health Advice
https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert
Tips to help look after your mental wellbeing during self-isolation
https://www.redcross.org.au/
Information from NDIS regarding Coronavirus
https://www.ndis.gov.au/coronavirus
Multi-lingual Resources
Multi-lingual information from the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/translated-resources-coronavirus-disease-covid-19
Multi-lingual resources from SBS
https://www.sbs.com.au/language/coronavirus
Multi-lingual information Ethnolink Language Services
https://www.ethnolink.com.au/covid-19-coronavirus-translated-resources/
Specialised Information
Information specifically relating to the well-being on those living with dementia
https://www.dementia.org.au/media-releases/2020/dementia-help-sheets-to-navigate-coronavirus-covid-19
Auslan video information from Expression Australia for people who are deaf
https://youtu.be/Cw4K0M_qknc
Resources for Carers and Support Workers
Information for Carers from Carers Victoria
https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/be-informed/carers-victoria-update-regarding-coronavirus-covid-19
An online training module for care workers from the Australian Government Department of Health
https://www.health.gov.au/news/how-to-protect-yourself- and-the-people-you-are-caring-for-from-infection-with-covid-19
During this time, it's important to remember that random acts of kindness can go a long way. Be kind to each other, and continue to check in on loved ones. Phone calls, video chat, and social media are all a fantastic way to keep in touch. Together we can beat this by being informed, following instructions, and remaining positive.