Feedback invited on new aged care visitation code

The Code seeks to balance reasonable safety measures in aged care while respecting the rights of older Australians and their emotional wellbeing.

The sixth revision of the Code is informed by the National Plan to transition Australia's National COVID-19 Response and the shift towards highly targeted lockdowns.

It proposes that during a local outbreak aged care homes be classified into one of three categories, each with its own infection prevention and control measures: Code Green (minimal COVID-19 in the local government area), Code Orange (heightened risk due to COVID-19 in the local government area) or Code Red (an exposure or outbreak has occurred inside the Aged Care Home).

The Code also includes an 'Essential Visitor' policy which allows residents to designate one person who will always be permitted to visit them in person to provide essential physical and emotional care, regardless of outbreak status.

"The aged care sector must find a reasonable balance between common sense safety precautions and the dignity and wellbeing of older Australians receiving care," said Council on the Ageeing (COTA) chief executive Ian Yates.

"Aged care consumer and provider peaks have been working throughout the pandemic to achieve a nationally consistent approach to aged care visitation, and have constantly revised the Code to respond to the latest health advice and the shifting reality of the pandemic.

"Going forward there will be Covid outbreaks across Australia, but aged care providers can't implement rolling lockdowns. I urge all Australians with experience of aged care, whether as a recipient, worker, or family member, to fill out the consultation form and have their say."

The consultation closes noon, November 19, 2021.

Submit feedback at www.cota.org.au/agedcarevisitors or www.agedservices.asn.au