SafeCare BC has announced the development of an online COVID-19 orientation for families and friends wanting to visit and support loved ones in long-term care.
The program, initiated in collaboration with Family Caregivers of British Columbia, guides family and friends through an online orientation, and offers a printed record of completion before following up with a site-specific safety orientation.
They're calling on other organizations to partner with the educational initiative to ensure free access to the program helping residents to become "COVID-competent."
Family Caregivers of BC has made an initial investment of $30,000 for that purpose.
“We are grateful for Family Caregivers of British Columbia’s partnership, so we can offer free access to the first 5,000 users, and we are calling on other organizations to help support this program financially,” says Jen Lyle, CEO of SafeCare BC.
“Everyone recognizes the vital role family members and loved ones play in the well-being of our seniors living in care, and to do so in a way that keeps seniors and staff working in the sector is paramount during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Family Caregivers of BC executive director Barb MacLean says by making the education module available, they are helping to support those in long-term care, as well as supporting visiting relatives or friends with vital knowledge.
“Through this partnership we are able to address a number of needs and issues, quickly bringing skills and confidence to family and friend caregivers and offering enhanced safety measures to care settings.
"Collaborating with SafeCare BC has allowed us to meet an identified need without re-creating the wheel, and together we are moving ahead to support families as essential partners in care.”
To enrol in the COVID-19: Social Visitation Essentials orientation, click here.
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