COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – FRIDAY, May 7, 2021
Dear Shoreham families and caregivers,
The Shoreham team continues testing based on Public Health recommendations. We will be holding asymptomatic testing clinics for staff and DCGs who wish to be tested every day. We encourage people to participate and will have the dates for clinics posted next week.
The pandemic has challenged us in so many ways. The amazing staff at Shoreham have worked so hard to keep our residents and their coworkers safe. Thank you to all of the amazing Shoreham staff who come to work each day to face this pandemic head on. You are truly unique, strong, and courageous.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – THURSDAY, May 6, 2021
Dear Shoreham families and caregivers,
The Shoreham team continues to work with Public Health testing staff and residents. We have just finished our second of four rounds of testing. Only after we have completed four rounds of testing with no positive cases are we then able to be considered COVID free.
As mentioned in our last communication, the Designated Care Giver program has resumed. Only those DCGs that have received a negative test result are able to continue in the DCG program. Some DCGs who have received their negative results have been able to continue participation today. We are asking all DCGs to contact us as soon as you receive your results.
We are also happy to offer a voluntary DCG testing clinic at Shoreham Village on May 12th from 1PM to 3PM. We will continue to offer voluntary testing weekly for the near the future. We do encourage you to participate to keep the Shoreham community safe.
We appreciate all of your patience and understanding as we move through this process together.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – TUESDAY, May 4, 2021
Dear Shoreham families and caregivers,
Today the province received a number of important messages from Premier Rankin and Dr. Strang. One message we wanted to highlight was that of ambulance costs associated with COVID related emergency transportation.
Please remember, if you are in medical distress do not hesitate to call 911 for an ambulance. It was announced today that the ambulance fee will be waived for any COVID related transport.
Please do not hesitate, COVID symptoms can worsen very quickly.
Stay safe.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – TUESDAY, May 4, 2021
Dear Shoreham families and caregivers,
Due to recent events, Shoreham has been working alongside Public Health to ensure everyone’s safety. We are happy to inform you that we are able to reinstate our Designated Care Giver program once a Designated Care Giver has a negative Covid swab.
To expedite the ability for DCGs to resume participation, Shoreham Village is holding a DCG Covid testing clinic here tomorrow, Wednesday May 5th between 9:00am-3:00pm.
To reduce the number of people coming together, we would ask that DCGs who have a last name beginning with A-M, come for testing between the hours of 9:00am-12:00pm. Those with last names beginning with N-Z come for testing between 1:00-3:00pm.
If you are unable to make the specific time please contact us and we will work to accommodate another time for you.
We ask that you notify us when you have received your results and we can schedule you in for a visit.
We appreciate all of your patience and understanding as we move through this process together.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – MONDAY, May 3, 2021
Hello Shoreham Community,
We understand some staff, family, and residents are anxiously awaiting test results. Staff/ residents and families are being informed of results as we receive them. We are happy to say that all results to date have been negative.
Contact tracing is near completion. We will continue to receive results over the next day or two. As soon as we receive your results you will be notified.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – SUNDAY, May 2, 2021
Hello Shoreham Community,
We would like to give you a short update on the testing results at Shoreham Village. As you are aware, contact tracing and testing began as soon as we were informed of the positive staffing agency worker.
Thanks to the hard work of the Shoreham team, we are now starting to receive test results for staff and residents who had been tested on Friday. We are happy to inform you that thus far the results have been negative. Results continue to come in. Residents/families and staff will be contacted with their tests results.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – SATURDAY, May 1, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
As you are now aware, yesterday Shoreham Village notified our residents and families of a member of a staffing agency who worked with us for one shift on April 24th who has tested positive for COVID-19. That individual is in isolation.
Since we were notified by Public Health yesterday, Shoreham has been working diligently on contact tracing and swabbing of all residents, staff, and DCGs. We have completed swabbing of all residents as well as most staff and some DCGs. We are hoping to see our test results over the next couple of days
We understand the importance of the Designated Care Giver Program and hope to update DCGs next week on a potential date that the DCG Program will be able to resume.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – FRIDAY, April 30, 2021
Dear Residents and Families
Shoreham Village was notified this afternoon by Public Health that a member of a staffing agency who worked with us for one shift on April 24th has tested positive for COVID-19. That individual is in isolation. This staff member was assigned to B-Wing. All residents on this unit are being tested and placed on isolation precautions. We currently have 7 vacant beds. New admissions in the facility are on hold.
We are working diligently with Public Health to complete contact tracing for anyone that may have had close contact with this case. Staff identified thus far are in isolation.
We have been advised by Public Health that due to this positive case in our facility, we are required to suspend the Residents social drives into the community. Essential medical appointment will still be allowed as long as Public Health guidelines are followed.
We have also been advised by Public Health that family visiting is to be suspended.
Designated Care Giver visits have been placed on hold temporarily as well. We will inform you when we are able to resume. When that program does resume, all Designated Care Givers whether they have had one shot or their full vaccination will be required to wear their medical grade mask as well as a face shield when on the care floors.
Over 95% of our residents have been vaccinated. All residents of the residents living on B-wing have been vaccinated. We have an over 75% vaccination rate for our DCGs.
Currently over 50% of our staff have been vaccinated. Many others are waiting for their earliest opportunity to get vaccinated. We continue to encourage all staff to get vaccinated. Our vaccine campaign continues and we are pleased with our overall uptake so far. We also have a good supply of PPE.
Are you willing to share with us if you have been vaccinated?
Stay tuned to your email for more information- if you have not provided your email address, please share that for timely communications.
Please watch our Website or Facebook page for further updates.
Be safe everyone.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – WEDNESDAY April 28, 2021
Dear Residents and Families
As of today we have 489 active cases within the province. Case numbers have been rising higher and higher every day due to community spread. COVID is not only lurking in Central Zone, it is all over Nova Scotia.
As the province is now in a full lock down it is time for all of us to remain diligent to decrease numbers and slow the rate of community spread. We need to keep our residents and staff safe. The current LTC restrictions continue and will be re-evaluated by Public Health on May 12.
Current LTC restrictions include:
1 – Visitor restriction from LTC as per Public Health Guidelines.
2 – The DCGs program will continue for residents and families to connect and support the mental health and family social interaction. Movement will continue to be limited inside the facility however DCGs will be able to continue to take their loved one for a walk on the Shoreham grounds.
3 – Everyone must continue to follow precautions including universal masking and using face shields at all time at the facility, proper hand hygiene, and keeping the 6 foot distance from others.
Resident vaccination is over 95%. Staff vaccination is currently over 50% additional staff have appointments at the Nova Scotia Health Clinics, 75% of DCGs took advantage of our clinics. We encourage everyone to be vaccinated to protect the Shoreham. Please access community clinics as you become eligible.
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – THURSDAY April 22, 2021
Dear Residents and Families
As of today we have 111 active cases within the province and as they appear to be increasing with possible community spread, we need to keep our residents and staff safe. There will be some restrictions coming into effect as of 8am. Please see below:
1 – Visitors are now restricted from LTC as per Public Health Guidelines.
2 – DCGs can continue to visit their loved one and must follow all PPE protocols. DCGs are restricted to in room visits only, until the community cases are under control.
Reminders:
- Continuous hand washing (for visible soiling) and frequent use of hand sanitizer.
- Maintain social distancing
- Everyone must wear a mask prior to entering the facility
- Mask must be changed and medical mask applied once screened
- Wearing masks at all times properly
- Masks should fit over mouth and cover nose
- Do not dangle mask from ear
- Do not wear mask under chin
- Avoid touching your face and mask
- Universal masking with a medical grade mask is required by everyone within the facility.
- If Mask is soiled – sanitize hands, discard mask, sanitize hands, and apply a new mask.
- If you have any symptoms, even one, go online to do a self-assessment and book an appointment- see attached link to guide you, https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/
COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM SHOREHAM – WEDNESDAY April 14, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
We want to provide an update, as we understand there may be some confusion regarding the COVID-19 restrictions.
We were very fortunate to receive early access to the vaccine. The impact of the vaccine on the easement of restrictions will come when many people in the community are also vaccinated.
Thank you for your continued patience as we navigate these challenging times and work together to balance physical and mental health care needs while following provincial guidelines aimed at maintaining overall safety.
We are working as an organization on solutions to provide greater community engagement within Shoreham’s walls while following Public Health guidelines. We are continuously reviewing the guidelines and will decide to ease restrictions as soon as possible. We also have to balance what is going on in the external community keeping in mind the risk variant strains of COVID pose to our internal community. Please see the Nova Scotia Website for these restrictions in more detail, found in ‘Alerts, news, and data’, and ‘Restrictions and guidance’ sections under the ‘Governments Respond to COVID-19’. https://novascotia.ca/CoronaVirus/restrictions-and-guidance/
We will continue to review resident and family requests whenever possible as well as ideas brought forward by staff members.
We are introducing changes to support:
- Accessing gardens/outdoor spaces on Shoreham properties both independently and supervised by staff as appropriate.
- Creating spaces where residents can engage in social and physical activities in common areas where we can ensure space for social distancing.
- Creating groups of people who can consistently interact (bubble) while limiting exposure to residents and others.
We will continue to review changes and do our best to ease restrictions. If you have any specific concerns to bring forward regarding current or ongoing discussions related to restrictions, please approach our Nursing Manager, Recreation Manager or other support in which you feel comfortable. Residents may continue to provide feedback through the resident council; the recreation team ensures your voice is heard.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, March 24, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
Last evening Shoreham Village experienced a sewage line break in the facility basement. The leak has been contained and the situation has been assessed by professional plumbers. We have implemented our backup plan for resident care. Residents were in no danger at any time.
This morning we have had contractors in to assess the damage and determine required repairs.
One wing has been affected. Fortunately, we have sufficient room to relocate residents temporarily to unaffected rooms while repairs are completed. Residents and families who are affected have been individually contacted.
We have excellent internal infection control practices and immediately began extensive cleaning and disinfection. To be safe we are bringing in an external company to complete additional cleaning and disinfection of the building.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through these repairs.
We will keep you updated.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, March 24, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
We are excited to have so many of the Shoreham community vaccinated, remembering we are not at 100%. While the vaccination provides another preventative measure to protect us from COVID, as we reported there continue to be cases and potential contact areas in the surrounding community. We, therefore, need to continue to strictly follow the other preventative measures such as screening and signing in, hand hygiene, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing from staff and other residents when coming into the facilities. This means as a DCG you must remain in your loved one’s room while you are here.
We are reviewing the possibility of DCGs and resident access to the outdoors during the resident’s scheduled times off the floors. Individual times continue to be scheduled to maintain internal bubbles for residents. This would provide access to the outdoors for all residents in a safe manner.
We are happy that visiting in addition to the DCG program has resumed. We are required to follow the guidelines that were in place prior to restrictions. Visits must occur off the floors, in a central location with screening and signing in, hand hygiene, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing from staff and other residents when coming into the facilities. With the warmer weather, we are preparing to resume outdoor visits in the coming weeks as well.
We appreciate your patience with the many changes adapting to COVID has required. We would like to thank those who have chosen to be vaccinated to help keep our community safe.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – FRIDAY, March 19, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
Today the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced changes to the Public Health directives.
Effective Tuesday, March 23 organized visits to Long Term Care facilities will resume.
The booking process for indoor family visits has restarted. As in the past, there will be two visitors permitted at a time.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – MONDAY, March 1, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues throughout Nova Scotia we understand the Shoreham community may have some questions. We would like to offer some additional information that might help explain the provincial rollout.
Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 immunization plan includes 3 phases. Each phase identifies when different groups can receive the vaccine. The plan is flexible to allow for increases or decreases in vaccine supply. Every person in Nova Scotia who wants the COVID-19 vaccine and for whom vaccine is indicated will receive it for free. An overview of Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 immunization plan is available here:
COVID-19-immunization-plan-overview-poster-en (1)
COMMUNITY UPDATE – FRIDAY, February 26, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
Today the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced changes to the Public Health directives. Effective at 8 AM on Saturday, February 27 residents will only be able to receive visits from their Designated Caregivers. There will be no other visits permitted at this time.
Residents will only be permitted to leave the facility for medical appointments. Drives with their Designated Caregivers can continue as long as there are no other passengers, stops or drive-thru visits.
These restrictions will continue until 11:59 PM on Friday, March 26 with the possibility of an extension.
We value the importance family connection has on the wellbeing of residents and family. The required precautions e.g. screening, mandatory masking at all times, signing in, restricted movement within the facility must continue to be strictly followed.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – THURSDAY, February 25, 2021
Dear residents and families,
One of the most important tools we have to fight COVID-19 is the vaccine. We understand many of our Shoreham community have questions regarding the vaccine clinics. We would like to offer a brief update on our progress.
Over the past month, Shoreham staff have been able to access the vaccine through NSH clinics. We are also happy to report that over 90% of Shoreham residents have received their first dose vaccine as of yesterday. Our clinic for Designated Caregivers will start tomorrow.
As many may know, the list of exposure sites throughout Nova Scotia has again started to rise. Please review the attached Community Exposure List attached below.
Some points to remember from Dr. Strang.
- Numbers are starting to creep back up, we have had 6 variant cases to date. Strang says he is worried about community spread, more people are socializing more with different groups of people. Based on this we do expect higher case numbers in the coming days.
- Advice is to slow down social activities and keep the same small social circles consistently. “We are still in a pandemic.” Dr. Strang says we need to stick with this for 2-3 months longer.
- People who go to social events where they don’t wear a mask, they should consider getting a test a week from that event.
- The more you’re out, the more people you’re with, the more frequently you should get tested, said Strang.
Updated Exposure List for February 25 2021
COMMUNITY UPDATE – THURSDAY, February 11, 2021
Dear residents and families,
CHESTER, Nova Scotia – Shoreham Village Continuing Care Facility is one of seven Long Term Care homes in the province that have been identified for replacement or significant renovation based on their overall condition and best practices in infection control.
The announcement was made on Friday, January 29, 2021 by Premier Stephen McNeil as part of the province’s commitment to make major investments in long-term care beds and facilities to better serve residents, families and staff.
“We are extremely excited that Shoreham Village has made the list for immediate work,” says President and CEO Janet Simm. The Shoreham facility was built in the mid 1970s and the design standards from that era no longer meet the needs of our residents. With this investment , we can ensure our residents have a more comfortable environment that allows for increased privacy and a the best care possible.
Shoreham has been working for a number of years with the Department of Health and Wellness to make upgrades to the aging facility. Shoreham is an old building and will need significant attention. The Shoreham team is looking forward to the continued collaboration with the Department of Health over the next few months as planning for this important project gets underway.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – MONDAY, January 11, 2021
Dear residents and families,
We are all looking forward to a new and positive year. Nova Scotia numbers are trending lower each day but we must all stay vigilant. We all need to ensure we do our very best to keep our community and residents healthy and safe.
On January 8, 2021 government has advised that there will be no change in the guidelines for visitors in Long Term Care. This will be re-evaluated on January 25, 2021.
Due to the increasing numbers of COVID cases in New Brunswick, Steven McNeil and Dr. Strang have announced the tightening of the Nova Scotia border. People entering Nova Scotia from New Brunswick must complete the Nova Scotia Safe Check-In form before arriving and self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.
Nova Scotian’s returning from New Brunswick must also self-isolate for 14 days unless they are exempt from the order. For example, people who regularly cross the provincial border for work do not have to isolate and can get a pass from border officials to display in their vehicle.
Any Northwood staff that have travelled and returned from New Brunswick must also follow these directives. Staff that are required to self-isolate will not be paid during their required self isolation.
People who arrived from New Brunswick or had visitors from that province in the past 14 days should get tested immediately and consider a second test five to seven days later. They should self-isolate while waiting for the first test result. People can book a test at https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/en .
Permanent residents of Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador do not have to isolate if they drive straight through New Brunswick to Nova Scotia with no or minimal stops.
Post-secondary students arriving from anywhere except Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador should get tested on days 6, 7 or 8 of their self-isolation. Students arriving from New Brunswick should check with their institutions about any potential changes in residence accommodations related to self-isolation.
COMMUNITY UPDATE – SATURDAY, January 9, 2021
Dear residents and families,
We are all looking forward to a new and positive year. Nova Scotia numbers are trending lower each day but we must all stay vigilant. We all need to ensure we do our very best to keep our community and residents healthy and safe.
On January 8, 2021 government has advised that there will be no change in the guidelines for visitors in Long Term Care. This will be re-evaluated on January 25, 2021.
Due to the increasing numbers of COVID cases in New Brunswick, Steven McNeil and Dr. Strang have announced the tightening of the Nova Scotia border. People entering Nova Scotia from New Brunswick must complete the Nova Scotia Safe Check-In form before arriving and self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival.
Nova Scotian’s returning from New Brunswick must also self-isolate for 14 days unless they are exempt from the order. For example, people who regularly cross the provincial border for work do not have to isolate and can get a pass from border officials to display in their vehicle.
Any Shoreham staff that have travelled and returned from New Brunswick must also follow these directives. Staff that are required to self-isolate will not be paid for during their required self isolation.
People who arrived from New Brunswick or had visitors from that province in the past 14 days should get tested immediately and consider a second test five to seven days later. They should self-isolate while waiting for the first test result. People can book a test at https://covid-self-assessment.novascotia.ca/en .
Permanent residents of Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador do not have to isolate if they drive straight through New Brunswick to Nova Scotia with no or minimal stops.
Post-secondary students arriving from anywhere except Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador should get tested on days 6, 7 or 8 of their self-isolation. Students arriving from New Brunswick should check with their institutions about any potential changes in residence accommodations related to self-isolation.
CURRENT UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021
Dear Residents and Families,
Please see the attached process for resident items to be dropped off at the Shoreham Facility. During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents may need essential or non-essential items from outside the facility or belongings from home. This process pertains to accepting gifts from family/support person(s) or designated caregivers. Please review the document below for full details.
CURRENT UPDATE – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2020
Dear Residents and Families,
With the announcement earlier this week on the easement of visiting restrictions, we are happy to provide the following update.
We are close to the holidays and many preparations and schedules are already in place. Our team is committed to increasing the opportunities for resident and family connections.
We will begin the process of increasing the assigned designated caregivers to two immediately with additional participation beginning on Monday, December 21. The process will be the same as previous participation in the program.
- A maximum of two DCGs designated by the residents or substitute decision-makers. One person can visit at one time as a DCG. There have been over 90 participants in the DCG program.
- The additional DCG will be the one that was assigned prior to the last restrictions.
- Please phone 902-275-5631 ext. 235 for more information.
Organized visiting will resume on Monday. We will balance visiting with planned events and with the resident’s ability for visits. Residents so enjoy the ability to participate in events. The process will include:
- Visits will be booked for a maximum of 2 visitors per resident at a time. We will be prioritizing visits for residents who do not currently have a DCG to enable more residents and family to connect throughout the holidays.
- Visits will be booked on a first-come basis and will be accommodated in spaces to provide privacy for the visit.
- Visitors must wear masks at all times during the visit.
- Visitors must be screened prior to visiting.
- Commercially purchased, non-perishable foods (sweets or treats – do not need refrigeration) for residents to take to their room are acceptable. Food can not be shared at the visit because masks must be worn at all times.
- If you do bring parcels for Christmas, please make sure staff know to ensure items are recorded and labeled as necessary
We are excited to have people back for the holidays. Staff will continue to monitor that precautions are followed to keep residents, family, and staff safe.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
CURRENT UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2020
Dear Residents and Families,
The province has recently announced the creation of regional Care Units (RCUs) to care for Long Term Care (LTC) residents that test positive for COVID-19. The province has also designated some LTC homes as Care in Place.
Shoreham Village has been designated as a Care in Place home. This allows the staff who know your loved ones the best to continue caring for them if they test positive for COVID-19. We have created dedicated space for this purpose and are ready should it be required. Resident safety remains our top priority.
We are following all Public Health protocols and are doing all we can to keep residents safe.
CURRENT UPDATE – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020
Dear Residents and Families,
Shoreham and the Department of Health and Wellness acknowledge the importance of quality of life, mental health, and overall well-being of all residents. Residents of long-term care are more susceptible to acquiring COVID-19 and therefore we need to have strong safety measures in place.
As outlined in the attached Long Term Care Guidelines, in order to keep all residents and staff safe, the number of designated caregivers will continue to be reduced from two to one and all indoor visitation will continue to be suspended until December 17, 2020. Please watch for updates.
Guidelines for LTC Facilities 2020_12_10
CURRENT UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2020
Dear Residents and Families,
On December 1, 2020, the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced changes to the Public Health directives. Effective today the Designated Caregiver (DCG) Program has been restricted to one DCG per resident, assigned by the resident or their substitute decision-maker.
Shoreham is committed to continuing this program within the Public Health directives. We value the importance family connection has on the wellbeing of residents and family. The required precautions e.g. screening, mandatory masking at all times, signing in, restricted movement within the facility must continue to be strictly followed. If a DCG is unable to follow all precautionary measures, participation in the program will not continue.
For those DCGs who have not been able to receive a flu vaccine due to limited supply in the community, please advise when you contact the above number and we will provide further information.
These changes will be in effect until further notice. The health and safety of Northwood residents, staff, and family members continue to be our number one priority.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
CURRENT UPDATE – FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2020
Dear Residents and Families
Thank you for your patience as we reviewed the recent directive provided by Public Health and respond to the growing number of individuals testing positive for COVID -19.
- All general visiting has been stopped and we will monitor Public Health directions before any changes are made.
- Residents leaving the facility are currently restricted to medical appointments only. This will be reassessed based on the community transmission situation as reported by Public Health.
- Resident movement off units has been restricted to escorted visits off living areas. We have deployed our Long Term Care Assistants to the resident living areas to support resident engagement and address social isolation. Residents are having meals in the dining room with physical distancing measures to again support socialization.
- Everyone entering the facility continue to be screened for symptoms, universal masking continues as well, anyone entering a resident living area must sign in and out to provide contact tracing. As of Friday, November 27, 2020. Staff and DCG will participate in serial testing for COVID 19. This will be done daily within a 2-week period and then re-testing will occur. Testing clinic dates and times will be posted on the website.
- In follow up to our communication on November 24, we have been able to review our processes and the data on the current Designated Caregivers and medical appointments. Public Health continues to support the DCG program and given the precautions that we have in place we believe we are able to continue this important program. We are however introducing additional precautions. A letter outlining the new Designated Care Program requirements will be provided to each DCG with the understanding that if the DCG is unable to adhere to the measures participation in the program is not possible. Shoreham is committed to providing a safe environment for residents, staff, and visitors. We know the importance of resident and family connections and have seen the commitment of the Designated Caregivers to complying with necessary precautions when visiting. We will continuously monitor this compliance as we do for all staff in the facilities.
We understand the impact restrictions have on residents’ and families’ wellbeing and we believe in the benefits of the Designated Caregiver Program and other family connections including virtual calls. Please continue to monitor our website for additional information.
CURRENT UPDATE – TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2020
Dear Residents and Families
Shoreham Village is committed to providing a safe environment for residents, staff, and visitors. We know the importance of resident and family connections, indoor visits, and the Designated Caregiver Program, and have enabled these based on Public Health Directives.
Given the current situation in the community regarding COVID-19 cases, we ask for your patience as we pause our current activities including visiting and the Designated Caregiver Program for 48 hours, up to and including November 26. We will review our processes and determine if any further preventive measures will be required and will send out an update by the end of that day.
We understand the impact restrictions have on residents’ and families’ wellbeing and we believe in the benefits of the Designated Caregiver Program and other family connections including video calls. Be sure to watch our website for regular updates.
Thank you for your patience.
CURRENT UPDATE – THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2020
Dear residents and families,
Given the current rise in COVID-19 cases in Nova Scotia, we would like to err on the side of caution. We continue to suspend resident outings into the community for family visits and trips until further notice.
External Medical appointments will continue.
Indoor visits and the Designated Caregiver program will continue. Screening and PPE are mandatory for both.
We would also like to remind everyone the importance of proper mask use, hand hygiene, and social distancing. We all need to work together to keep our loved ones healthy and safe.
Please check the COVID-19 section of our website regularly for updates.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
CURRENT UPDATE – TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2020
Dear residents and families,
Given the current situation in the community, we would like to err on the side of caution and continue to postpone resident visits into the community until more is known. We have suspended outings into the community for family visits and trips until Friday, November 19, 2020. A decision whether to resume community visits will be made and communicated by the end of that day.
Indoor visits and the Designated Caregiver program will continue with the required screening and PPE. Medical appointments will also continue, where people are screened and contact tracing is available at the medical clinic in addition to Shoreham screening. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
CURRENT UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2020
Good Afternoon
As a result of the current outbreak of Covid-19 in two areas of New Brunswick, changes have been made to our screening questions for staff entering our facilities.
Visitors:
Until further notice, we are asking that visitors who have travelled to areas of New Brunswick which are currently in the “Orange Phase” postpone their visit for 14 days. These areas are Moncton (Zone 1) and Campbellton (zone 5). We will reassess daily.
CURRENT UPDATE – MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2020
Dear Residents and Families,
We would like to update residents and families on recent changes in the ease of restrictions announced by the provincial government. There was originally mention of allowing resident community access. This directive has been changed to visits with family in their homes.
As of Tuesday, Sept 29th residents at Shoreham may choose to visit with family in their homes as long as they return the same day, no overnight visits. Residents and their family members/support persons are required to abide by physical distancing requirements, gathering limits, hand hygiene, and respiratory etiquette, and to wear a mask when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
A reminder of measures to help keep your loved one safe, such as physical distancing, gathering limits, hand hygiene, and respiratory etiquette, will be reviewed when a visit is arranged and prior to the resident leaving the facility.
Only residents who are not required to self-isolate and who are not demonstrating signs or symptoms of COVID-19 or other illnesses will be able to participate in visits. Residents & their family member/support person will be screened prior to the visit.
If a resident intends to leave the facility to visit with family, we ask that you notify the RN/LPN of your area 24 hours in advance to arrange a pick-up and drop-off time. Should the visit be cancelled for any reason, please notify us in a timely manner.
We look forward to this easement as it provides residents and families more time together
CURRENT UPDATE – THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2020
Please find below an update on the Designated Caregiver Program that has been recently announced.
CURRENT UPDATE – FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2020
Please find below a document outlining the new changes in ease of restriction in Long Term Care.
ShorehamUpdate August 28, 2020
CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2020
During the winter, youth interviewed residents of Shoreham Village and other seniors in the community of Chester, NS. The interviews inspired a music video. It was supposed to be recorded in the home at the end of March so we had to create a virtual choir. Thanks to a grant from the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia to the Chester Municipal Heritage Society, this video is now complete and includes performers from the ages of 2 to 90, mentally challenged and mentally sharp, professional musicians, and people who sang for the first time. The first verse was developed by two youth, (Taylor and Jessie-Lynn) Jamie Junger, Judy Parsons, and Jim Henman. The other verses were completed by Jim Henman and Myles Goodwin. Enjoy!
CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2020
We are very pleased to offer an update on the ease of some restrictions in regards to visits, resident’s movement within the facilities, resident programming, hair salon service, packages, and staff information. Below you will find a document outlining the most recent of these changes.
ShorehamUpdate August 19, 2020
CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – MONDAY, JULY 27, 2020
We are very pleased to offer an update on the ease of some restrictions in regards to visits, resident’s movement within the facilities, resident programming, hair salon service, packages, and staff information. Below you will find documents outlining these changes.
CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2020
Please find the most recent changes to Long Term Care directives.
CCIR 54.0 Attachment1 FAQ Visits, Gatherings, Salons, Bus Trips
CCIR 54.0 Attachment2 Guidelines for Visits, Hair Salons and Social Activities
CCIR 54.0 Changes to LTC Directive-COVID-19
Indoor visiting
With the announcement from the DOH today Shoreham is excited to offer indoor visits beginning July 27th, 2020.
Indoor visits will be limited to one person at a time. Residents may have up to three separate individuals on their visitor list. You are able to provide the names of these three individuals by contacting 902-275-5631 ext. 235 or 221.
The process for booking an indoor visit will remain the same as booking outdoor visits.
Screening protocols will remain in place.
United Way of Lunenburg COVID-19 funding.
This funding is helping people in the communities that we serve.
If you know of individuals who would benefit from one of these programs please direct them to the appropriate agency.
COVID Funding Update Cumulative July 09
If you know of individuals who would benefit from one of these programs please direct them to the appropriate agency.
211 Nova Scotia is also a great information resource. They can be reached via phone, text or web.
COVID-19 Update: June 26, 2020
Please see below for information on outdoor family visitation.
COVID-19 Update: June 16, 2020
Please see below for a list of frequently asked questions regarding the COVID-19 at Shoreham Village.
Frequently Asked Questions- Shoreham June 16, 2020
COVID-19 Update: June 12, 2020
Dear Family Member,
We are so excited to announce that Shoreham will be contacting families and scheduling outdoor visiting beginning next week. We know how much you have missed your loved ones and they have missed you! These outside scheduled visits are set up under direction from Department of Health and Wellness and Public Health regulations. Before we begin calling and scheduling families, we want to include you in our plans and make you aware of how these visits will look. Please read the visitation document below.
COVID-19 Update: May 7, 2020
At this time, we DO NOT have an identified case of COVID-19 in Shoreham. Below is a video created by Shoreham Staff, Residents and the community that we hope you enjoy.
COVID-19 Update: April 16, 2020
At this time, we DO NOT have an identified case of COVID-19 in Shoreham. Please take some time to read the attached letters.
ShorehamVolunteers ShorehamLetterCEO
COVID-19 Update: April 6, 2020
ShorehamLetter to FamilyApril 6
COVID-19 Update: April 5, 2020
It is with regret that the Shoreham Village Foundation must inform our supporters of our difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Swing for Shoreham Golf Tournament. Following protocol from the NS Office of Public Health in relation to the current COVID–19 pandemic, knowing the Chester Golf Club has been closed to the public indefinitely and considering the present instability of the economy, there was little choice but to cancel. The 2020 tournament would have been the 10th Annual and we have been looking forward to a celebratory event, but unfortunately, this will not be rescheduled in 2020.
We are grateful for your past and ongoing support of Shoreham Village. On behalf of the Shoreham Foundation, we assure you we will endeavour to do what we can to enhance the quality of the lives of our residents and staff during these challenging times and are committed to keeping everyone’s health and safety at the forefront of what we do.
COVID-19 Update: April 1, 2020
With the recent information on the identification of COVID-19 in a few homes in Nova Scotia, we have now put in motion our decision to create cohorting areas to care for residents if swabbed and identified with COVID-19.
At this time, we DO NOT have an identified case of COVID-19 in Shoreham. This is a preparatory measure. If we get a case everyone will be made aware. We are continuing to be on top of the issues and these cohort floors are examples.
We are sorry for the short turn around but feel it is essential to move this forward quickly. This is a large undertaking that will occur rapidly. Some residents will be relocated to other rooms/locations throughout the facility temporarily to create the space for the cohort floor. We have held admissions in the short term to help with relocating and resettling residents E Wing. Admissions will resume when this is done.
Specific areas have been identified and residents affected are being notified. Team members will be providing emotional support as people are relocated. We also have teams identified to help pack and set up the many aspects of the cohort floors. Managers and Charge Staff will work to determine the most appropriate relocation. We realize that this will be disruptive and challenging for people involved and thank everyone in advance for patience and understanding.
Again at this time, we do not have an identified case of COVID-19 within the Shoreham community.
This is a difficult time for everyone and making these decisions are not easy for anyone. The impact on the residents affected is tremendous and they will need all of our support.
You will see a flurry of activity in the next two days. We are all in this together and are doing everything we can to keep residents and staff safe.
COVID-19 Update: March 28, 2020
In your home:
• Keep shared spaces (e.g. kitchens, bathrooms) clean and well ventilated.
• Use soap and water to clean dishes and utensils after each use.
• Clean door handles, light switches, railings, remotes, and other high-touch areas daily.
• Clean your home and household items with store-bought disinfectant or diluted bleach (one part bleach to nine parts water).
• Wash clothes, and linens using regular laundry soap and water (60-90°C).
• Do not share personal items (toothbrushes, clothing, towels, drinks, etc.)
• If available, use disposable gloves and protective clothing (e.g. plastic aprons) when cleaning anything soiled with bodily fluids.
COVID-19 RESOURCE
We know residents and their families have many questions and concerns about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how the spread of this virus may impact their health and access to health care services.
The attached letter and fact sheet will serve as a resource for residents and families, should they have questions or concerns or require additional information.
COVID-19-Fact-Sheet-Families LTCResidentLetterCOVIDMar28
COVID-19 Update: March 26, 2020
During these unique and uncertain times, our Shoreham family is working very hard to keep your loved one and our staff safe. Currently, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Shoreham facility. Although difficult for residents and family we have made the decision to stop all drop-offs to residents effective March 27, 2020. We understand this may cause some distress but it is necessary to keep our staff and residents safe.
Thank you for your understanding.
COVID-19 Update: March 23, 2020
With the number of COVID-19 cases increasing in Nova Scotia every day, psychologists offer insights on how to separate yourself from others, while still getting the social support you need. Please read the attached PDF below for further information.
COVID-19 Update: March 19, 2020
We know clients and families have many questions and concerns about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how the spread of this virus may impact their health and access to health care services.
The attached letter and fact sheet will serve as a resource for clients and families, should they have questions or concerns or require additional information.
NSHA-CC 20-03-19 Home Care Client Letter
COVID-19 Update: March 18, 2020
COVID-19 Update: March 16, 2020
Each day the Shoreham team works hard to keep our residents and staff safe. To ensure their safety we are now restricting all visitors to the Shoreham facility. If a resident needs to leave the facility for a health emergency, the staff will act accordingly. Residents are not permitted to leave the facility for social visits. If a resident leaves the facility with friends or family for dinner or any other activities, they will not be permitted to return to the facility until the “No Visitors” mandate has been lifted. We apologize for the inconvenience but must follow these strict guidelines to keep all of our residents and staff safe.
Update: March 15, 2020
NO VISITORS PERMITTED
Please be advised that effective immediately, no visitors to the Shoreham property are permitted. There are currently no cases of COVID-19 at the Shoreham facility. There was an announcement today confirming three presumptive cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia. As a precaution, Shoreham is no longer permitting visitors of any kind until further notice. Please check back on Monday for a more detailed update.
Update: March 14, 2020
Shoreham has activated our pandemic plan to prepare and respond to the recent Novel Coronavirus (COVID – 19). Our primary goal is the safety of residents and clients and the protection of staff.
To help protect residents of Long Term Care, those most at risk for severe illness, the government is restricting visitors who have travelled outside the country in the last 14 days from entering the facilities. If symptoms (cough, fever, difficulty breathing) occur during these 14 days, visitors must further postpone visiting until symptom-free.
There is also influenza – like illness in the community. Visitors are not to enter the facility with any symptoms of respiratory illness including sore throat, headache, body aches, and cough. Postpone visiting until you are symptom free.
Shoreham Restrictions:
• Visitor screening will be completed at all facility entrances.
• Resident visiting is restricted to two designated visitors (e.g. substitute decision-maker or immediate family).
• Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to visit.
• External community members are not permitted to enter the facility (this includes customers of Lawtons, Lawley’s cafe).
• There will be no large programs/activities.
Communication and Information: Information will continue to be updated on the Shoreham website regularly www.nwood.ns.ca.
Shoreham will continue to be transparent with information and will work in collaboration with the Department of Health and Wellness and Public Health Services.
Daily provincial updates are available at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/
COVID-19 Update: March 12, 2020
ALL VISITORS (Family, Friends, Volunteers, Community)
If you have travelled outside of Canada in the last 14 days, you may have been exposed to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please DO NOT enter the Shoreham facility.
As part of the response to the spread of COVID-19, it is important that everyone helps protect those most at risk for severe illness.
As always, if you are feeling unwell you should not enter the facility. Your cooperation is important and appreciated.
Employees are to contact Occupational Health at 902-454-3354 prior to returning to work.
Please view the attached PDF files for more detailed information.
