Peak bodies team up with ABC’s Dr Norman Swan on COVID-19 video series

The video series, called ‘Your health is in all of our hands – keeping older Australians safe from COVID-19’, is hosted by Dr Swan and covers a range of different topics that have become of concern for older Australians.

Dr Swan says, “With older people so vulnerable to this virus, I am pleased to provide some independent, evidence-informed commentary and clarification, to assist in their protection from COVID-19.

“Hopefully, this will help make their lives safer and contribute to them coming through the pandemic with less health impacts.”

So far, there are five videos in the series covering safety for older Australians during COVID-19, allowing workers into your home to receive care, safety in residential care, what to do if you get sick, and caring for people with dementia during the current crisis.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of LASA, Sean Rooney, is excited to have Dr Swan on board for these videos that will inform older Australians during such a critical time.

“This is an important series to help protect our elders and save lives, in home and residential care and right across the community,” says Mr Rooney.

“Older Australians receiving care, their families and advocates, and the workforce who cares for them need accessible, straightforward and authoritative information to keep them safe and give them confidence during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are delighted Dr Swan chose to present these important videos, with his conversational style that people can relate to and understand.”

The series will also be myth-busting common misconceptions around the coronavirus and explains how to stay safe while still receiving and accessing the vital essential aged care services you require.

CEO of OPAN, Craig Gear, believes the detailed video series is fantastic for older Australians to watch, especially since they are more vulnerable or may experience more severe symptoms of COVID-19 if they contract the virus.

“The videos address specific issues around aged care and what older Australians are experiencing right now,” explains Mr Gear.

“We’re hearing many questions and concerns so it’s important to ensure there is clear, practical advice.

“Our videos take into account the expert health advice we’re getting around outbreak management and the implementation of risk mitigation plans for COVID-19, and how that can adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

“The series is focused on minimising health risks, while reducing anxiety among older Australians, their families and friends and the people who look after them.”

Other areas covered in the video series include appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), messages on social distancing, reducing visitation, risk reduction measures and available supports.

Mr Rooney adds, “This is about giving the public confidence in the age services industry and helping to clarify what they need to do and why they need to do it, to protect vulnerable older Australians.”

To watch the series, visit the LASA youtube page, or find out more details about the videos, head to the LASA or OPAN websites.

For more information about the coronavirus, visit the Aged Care Guide COVID-19 update page.

Do you have any questions about the coronavirus that you want answered? Tell us in the comments below or email journalist@dps.com.au.