BEDFORD UPDATE – MAY 14, 2024

This is an important message from Northwood – Bedford, regarding: Update : COVID outbreak for Bedford Campus.

We currently have 1 active case of COVID within Schooner landing.

Staff, visitors and volunteers are required to mask at all times while in facility, until outbreak is declared over. We also ask that you complete hand hygiene and apply new medical mask at the entrance of our facilities. Please be aware that by coming into the facilities during an outbreak may increase your chances of developing symptoms.

Best defense to limit the spread for yourself, residents and staff is to increased hand hygiene using a alcohol-based sanitizer when you arrive and before leaving, as well as after any contact with a resident.

Thank you for assisting in reducing the spread of infection within our facility. We will notify you when masks may be lifted for all campuses.

As a reminder do not visit facility if you are experiencing

• Cough (new or worsening)

• Fever (chills or sweats)

• Headache

• Runny Nose or nasal congestion

• Sore throat

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Diarrhea or vomiting

Thank you

BEDFORD UPDATE – MARCH 26, 2024

Good Morning, We are getting closer to completion of our first floor remediation work at the Bedford Campus. We are hopeful that construction will be completed by mid April and have a tentative timeline to begin reoccupying the Landings with residents by the end of April. As we get closer to this time we will provide more detailed timelines.

Additionally, we are happy to announce that our main kitchen has been restored, onsite meal preparation has commenced as of yesterday March 25, 2024. The administration offices, cafe, and hair salon will also slowly begin reoccupancy over the coming weeks.

We are very excited and once again like to thank you all for your patience and understanding.

BEDFORD UPDATE – MARCH 18, 2024

All construction is near complete now in the maintenance hallway and cleanup has begun. We will be able to grant access back to that space by later next week around Mar 20 or 21.
The kitchen and laundry are done and equipment hookup has started in these areas. We will be occupying the kitchen by Wednesday, Mar 20 and plan to start regular laundry service from our room on Thursday Mar 21. The kitchen will go through a few days of ramp up and testing and our first planned day to serve all our food prepared from our kitchen space again is Mar 25. I just want to take this chance to thank the team in Halifax for all their support in keeping our residents fed, and our corporate team for delivering each day from Halifax to Ivany for a smooth transition. Our suppliers were a big help by changing their normal delivery patterns, and of course the staff continue to persevere through every challenge to make this seem almost effortless, though we know the tremendous effort that everyone has put in.

Handrails arrived this week and installation has begun. We started in hallways for learning and moved to resident spaces today. All handrails should be installed by end of next week.

As for neighborhoods, Fisherman is mostly complete. Schooner has had all demolition, cleaning, and air testing completed and is in active construction. Most materials are already on site with the exception of some doors and those are currently scheduled to arrive next week. The current schedule has us having these turned over from FOS to us for around April 15 which is one month away. We will then have a few days to do setup and have necessary inspections and then hopefully start welcoming residents home for about April 22. The last week of April will be for touchups and deficiencies, and we will then be bidding farewell to the remaining team from FOS.

Thanks to everyone again for all their efforts, the teams support from here at Ivany and the broader team from all of Northwood has been amazing. I am so proud to say I am part of this team and I sing our praises to anyone who will listen.

BEDFORD UPDATE

Good morning,

We were so excited to welcome residents back to Points in mid-January. The entire team came together to support all the last minute checklists and requirements from licensing and people got to move home. The joy we saw in people made all the hard work worthwhile and I want to extend a sincere thanks to everyone who made it possible.

Main street and the administration corridor are nearly complete. You will continue to see progress on the finish work needed and we should see some services like the café and salon returning in early March.

The support services corridors and the main kitchen are in active remediation. Some of the spaces have already been rebuilt and are awaiting the finishing work like flooring, paint, etc., while others like laundry, stores and kitchen have just completed their demo and clean. Re-construction is scheduled for those spaces starting next week. If we are able to maintain the current schedule those spaces should be ready to re-open in about 4 weeks for mid-March. Another thanks needs to be extended to the larger Northwood team from our Halifax campus, and corporate services who have supported us with operations and planning during our temporary kitchen setup. We have been able to keep all residents nourished and cared for in less than perfect conditions. Once again the resilience and willingness of our entire family shines bright.

Lastly the Landings are moving along well. Fisherman is complete of all major work and re-construction, and awaiting finish work including paint and fixtures, however with the corridors in a different state of readiness work has paused there until we have a safe path of travel to access again. We are looking at a plan where we may be able to open it very shortly after we open the kitchen and admin space leaving only Schooner to complete after that. Schooner was the last area to be started and it is currently still in the demo phase. It will be the last area we are able to open and it may happen as its own phase or in conjunction with Fisherman, more to follow on that as we get closer.

It is currently expected all major work and re-opening will be complete in early April.

Thank you

This is an important message from Northwood, Bedford regarding: Bedford Residents Return.

Good Morning,

Northwood’s Bedford Campus is excited to announce we are beginning to return residents to Mayflower and Lighthouse Points today, Thursday January 18th 2024 starting with those displaced within our facility. This process will be ongoing over the next several weeks, we ask that you please respect the residents’ space as they resettle into their environment. Northwood will be hosting a reopening event later in the spring once remediation of the entire first floor is complete. We look forward to welcoming back all of our residents, families and community members in the near future!

Thank you,

Good Morning,

We are getting closer to the completion of the remediation and renovation work on Lighthouse and Mayflower Points. A licensing inspection is scheduled to occur on Monday, January 15th by the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care. If an inspection approval is received, our plan is to begin a phased approach to returning residents to these areas on Wednesday, Jan 17th. If we do not receive an approval to reopen at this time we will communicate a revised plan accordingly.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this process.

Amy MacLellan

Kailey Durette

Happy New Year

We are incredibly grateful to have had your support, patience and understanding over this past year. We look to 2024 with optimism and hope.

We have been working closely with First on Site through the 1^st floor renovations. There have been some delays related to material deliveries such as doors and millwork however are hoping that we will be able to start reoccupying some sections of the 1^st floor by mid to late January. We are also preparing for our main kitchen to begin it’s renovation January 10^th. This will result in a temporary meal service plan with some food being prepared from our Northwood Halifax kitchen, transported to Bedford, and then heated and served. We are working with the Department of Environment and our Food Service team to ensure a smooth process with minimal impact to the meal experience for Bedford residents.

As soon as the spaces are ready on the 1^st floor and we’ve completed our re-occupancy licensing inspection with SLTC we will provide an update on our return plan timeline. In the meantime, we are preparing and connecting with residents/families who will be part of the first group to transfer to renovated rooms.

Once again thank you for your on going support and understanding as we navigate this process together.

Wishing you and your families a happy 2024.

Northwood Ivany Place Update – Nov. 9, 2023

Because of the location of the Adult Day space in the building and the extent of the damage as compared to the rest of the building, we will be able to complete the work in this area next week.

The Adult Day Program will be opening their doors to clients and care partners on Monday, November 20th.

Staff will begin preparing the space for their clients late next week.

The remainder of the renovations are progressing well and are on track to have some residents return to the first floor in the New Year.

Northwood Update – Sept. 26, 2023

Good Afternoon,

Due to the tremendous work of our staff, residents and their families the number of active resident cases continues to decline, despite the increased occurrence of COVID-19 in the community.

Everyone Plays a part: We want to thank everyone for their efforts to keep residents and staff safe- Keep up the great work!

Northwood Update – Sept. 20, 2023

Respiratory season (Influenza,RSV) is fast approaching, and we are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases within our communities and our facilities.

Northwood is taking a preventative approach to protect our residents and staff to lessen the spread of COVID 19 and other respiratory infections.

Masking will be required for all:
Staff & visitors at each facility, corporate offices, and home care services. An update will be given once we are able to lift masking.

Eating and drinking -masks may be removed- must be physically distance from others.
Visitors are required to keep mask on unless they alone in a room with a loved one.
If resident has roommate – visitors need to remain masked.

Cross site movement
Only essential staff that need to cross sites as part of their role should be visiting other sites.
Utilize Teams’ meetings as much as possible to prevent gatherings.

Rapid test kits pick up area has change for Halifax site and will now be available to pick up at the facility Supervisor office.

Good Hand hygiene, properly wearing a mask (over mouth and nose) will help prevent the spread. Do not come to work sick- make sure you are passively screening for symptoms and using rapid tests.

Screening for the following symptoms:
• Cough(new or worsening)

• Fever (chills or sweats)

• Headache

• Runny Nose or nasal congestion

• Sore throat

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Diarrhea or vomiting

Thank you for everyone’s support with infection prevention requirements to keep our resident and co workers safe.

Halifax Campus Update – Sept. 16, 2023

Good Afternoon,

We are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases in several areas of the Halifax Campus.

Some services are being impacted. To assist in preventing further spread, we are implementing campus wide masking for all staff, clients and families/ visitors in all program areas.

Thank you for your support.

Bedford Campus Update – Sept. 12, 2023

Good Afternoon,

I am happy to finally be able to share a construction timeline for our reconstruction of the flood damage in Bedford.

There has been a lot of planning and operational thought in deciding the best path from demolition through construction and into re-occupying the spaces. Things to consider included material and staff resource availability, operational needs to keep sections of the building (laundry, kitchen mechanical systems) to a minimum down time, traffic flow so visitation could be maintained and staff could access the building. There is also a very robust health and safety protocol that must be maintained to ensure safe occupation of the building can occur during all the flood remediation which includes controlled access to active construction zones, negative air pressure to vent any possible environmental irritants outside safely, and strict PPE and environmental suits for worker protection and safety. All of these factors meant we need a very precise map and schedule of sections to take offline, control access, rebuild, and re-occupy.

With all these considerations, and Northwood’s absolute commitment to ensuring safety for resident, visitors, staff and contractors we have developed a phased approach to our construction and re- occupation. This will allow us to keep operational areas working for the longest possible time we can, and give us resident areas in stages so we may start the relocation of our residents back to their homes as soon as possible. The following schedule is our current plan, and estimated timeline for restricting access to all staff (access to all these areas has already been restricted for any residents and visitors).

Please keep in mind these are the planned timelines, and there are factors that are beyond our control that could impact the completion dates including supplier deliveries and hidden damage which will require further mitigation. We will do our best to open these areas up within the time we are planning, but we will communicate throughout the process and inform of any delays or changes in the timeline as these are encountered and scheduled.

Phase 1 – Adult Day – This area is separate and allows us to have easy controlled access, and as it is a small overall space we were able to source local materials to get this area started. Not only will this allow adult day which is an important community outreach program to get started again, it gives Bedford additional space for programming, planning, storage and operational use.

· Demo starting Sept 1 – Planned completion Oct 31, 2023

Phase 2 – Mayflower/Lighthouse – This is the first resident living areas we will be re-building. We have a longer lead time on some of the large critical supplies needed for re-build including flooring, doors and millwork. This though should be ready to re-occupy before the end of 2023

· Demo starting Sept 5 – Planned completion Dec 15, 2023

Phase 3 – Reception/Admin/Main Street – To allow for continued access to the kitchen/laundry/maintenance and storage we are going to delay tis area slightly for demo. Since it will need to be completed before we can allow residents back to the Points it has a similar completion date.

· Demo starting Sept 25 – Planned completion Dec 15, 2023

Phase 4 – Kitchen/Laundry/Maintenance/Storage – We are keeping this area operational for as long as possible while we finalize plans to keep these service lines running during the rebuild of these areas. More info on these plans to follow soon.

· Demo starting Nov 1 – Planned completion Dec 31, 2023

Phase 5 –Schooner/Fisherman – This will be the remaining resident living area and upon completion will have the majority of the building back in full operation and occupancy. It was determined the best plan would be to get some of the living quarters and all of the service line needs done before tackling this last living quarters area.

· Demo starting Jan 1 – Planned completion Mar 31, 2024

Phase 6 – Great Room and cleanup – This will be the last areas to have done. Some small non-essential areas with minimal impact to the operation. We will be taking these areas offline soon and starting demo, but they will be the last areas rebuilt and brought back in service.

· Demo starting Sept 15, 2023 – Planned completion April 15, 2024

This is an ambitious plan and we know there will be some impact felt by everyone on site. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we exercise all necessary cautions to ensure a safe and happy building throughout our build.

Should you have any questions, I am available to answer. Look for some more communication and some opportunities to have in person Q & A as we progress.

Dave Betts

Corporate Director, Infrastructure Services

Pronouns: He/him

Bedford Campus Flood Response Update – August 3, 2023

Good Afternoon,

We are happy to share that residents are continuing to adapt and settle into a new routine on our second floor.

We have been able to relocate 10 residents to vacancies at our Halifax campus and will continue to offer temporary transfers when additional vacancies become available. We are currently prioritizing people to move from shared common spaces into more private living spaces on the second floor.

We’ve turned our solarium into a resident living/leisure room and recreation programming is well underway offering daily music and other activities which everyone is enjoying.

We have hired an environmental hygienist to support us through the remediation process and work with our insurers and the remediation company. The hygienist helps us determine the scope of repair work required while ensuring the highest safety standards are met.

We are continuing to work with our insurer to answer outstanding questions.

Thank you everyone once again for the outpouring of support and understanding.

Update on Bedford First Floor Flood Damage – July 28, 2023

This past week has been a challenge but once again our staff, residents, families and community have all shown incredible resilience and support as we’ve faced our initial flood response.

Thank you to those families who were able to assist with the packing of personal resident belongings over the past two days. Everything that is left will be packed with the support of staff and then our remediation and restoration company will begin their process. We are still working with our insurer to get answers to many questions. When any information is known we will update.

We have transferred some residents to our Northwood Halifax location and will continue to offer transfers when there are available vacancies. In the meantime residents are settling into a new routine on our second floor. We are working to establish a comfortable and new normal for those who have been displaced. We may make some changes in the coming days to improve flow and utilize our spaces to maximize comfort as best we can.

In addition to the support from our Social Workers and other team members we are reaching out to a trauma counsellor to spend time on site with residents.

We are working closely with our system partners such as the Office of the Fire Marshal, Department of Environment, Department of Seniors and Long Term Care, Infection Prevention and Control etc. Everyone is coming together to support this response and ensure that precautions and protocols are in place for resident comfort and safety.

Solid hoarding walls are being constructed today which will close off access on the first floor past the elevators. Family/Visitors will be able to enter our main entrance and use the front elevators to reach the second floor.

Timelines are still unknown but we are anticipating a lengthy restoration process which will happen in phases. This means that some areas of the first floor will become accessible at different times.

Thank you again for your support and understanding as we navigate this together.

Another update will be sent next week.

Update on Bedford First Floor Internal Relocation – July 24, 2023

We continue to adjust to our new reality post flood at our Bedford Campus.

We are learning from our remediation and restoration company that there is significant water damage which will require major repair work. Sadly, this means residents will be displaced for some time. We are creating additional living spaces on our second floor to accommodate residents comfortably as much as possible.

We are working with the department of Seniors & Long Term Care and Continuing Care to find alternative living arrangements to offer to those prioritized due to medical needs. We understand that this is not an ideal situation for anyone and we will do everything we can to keep people as comfortable as possible.

The remediation and restoration company will be packing up furniture and equipment etc. and we may not have access to the items for some time. We have purchased a tote for each displaced resident to keep important belongings close by.

We know you and your family members may have items you’d prefer to remove and take home. If you’re interested in taking items home we will be offering designated drop in times on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. A schedule will be sent out tomorrow. If you’re unable to make any of the designated times please reach out to reception at 902-407-8500 to leave a message and we will work with you individually.

Thank you for your support and understanding.

Update on Bedford First Floor Internal Relocation – July 23, 2023

We have had a good night at the Bedford Campus and are pleased to share that late last night our elevators became operational. We are creating comfort areas for residents to spend time on our second floor.

We will provide an additional update next week once more information is available from our remediation and restoration company.

Thank you for your patience and support.

Update on Bedford First Floor Internal Relocation – July 22, 2023

We have had a remediation company complete an initial assessment and it is not promising news but will know more on Tuesday.

We are awaiting Otis, the elevator service company, to determine if the elevator will be up and running this weekend.

We are making plans for food services and have received beds from the Red Cross so all residents will be in beds tonight on the second floor.

Residents are surrounded by our amazing and familiar staff and will continue to be supported through this challenging time.

Again, thank you for your patience and support.

Update on Bedford First Floor Internal Relocation – July 22, 2023

Residents are settled on the second floor and for the most part residents are in good spirits.

We have several remediation companies onsite assessing the damage and clean-up of our first floor is underway.

We do not have a timeline but anticipate the remediation work will take time. We will send an update when new information is known.

Once again we thank you all for your support and patience as we get through this together.

Bedford First Floor Residents internal Relocation – July 21, 2023

Due to intense rainfall and subsequent flooding, the residents on the first floor of our Bedford facility are being relocated to the second floor. Leadership is on site and a plan is in motion to address the water and all residents are safe. We will continue to provide updates of our progress throughout the evening. Thank you for your patience and trust as we support our residents through another challenging situation.Thank you

Bedford, Ivany Place Evacuation Update – June 3rd, 2023

The Emergency Management Office has given us permission to return to the Bedford campus today. We are activating our return plan!

We hope to start loading the first bus around 11:30 this morning. Dependent upon the availability of transportation we may not get everyone back today. We will provide an update later today.

Thank you for your patience and support during this challenging time.

Bedford, Ivany Place Evacuation Update – June 2nd, 2023

We have settled into a routine at the Halifax Campus. Residents continue to be supported by Bedford staff. We are amazed at everyone’s resilience in trying to make the best of a challenging situation. We are grateful to the Halifax team who have been welcoming and have pitched in to support in everyway.

We have onsite trauma and grief support for identified residents and families. Additional broad support will be provided for residents and families once we return to the Bedford Campus.

We do not yet have a timeline for return to the Bedford campus. We are planning a methodical transfer back which reduces as much strain and stress on the residents as possible.

Thank you again for your patience and understanding.

Bedford, Ivany Place Evacuation Update – June 1st, 2023

Last evening the Red Cross provided us with an additional 55 bed frames to add to our temporary living spaces. Residents had a great sleep. We are settled into a routine and things are running smoothly. We will not be returning to the Bedford Campus today or tomorrow. Planning for the return is underway and when we have a timeline that information will be shared.

We have music and entertainment and continue to provide quiet one on one support. Morale and spirits are good. Today will be hot and we are monitoring smoke and air quality. Heat stress strategies are underway to keep the residents cool and comfortable. We have temporary phones assigned to many of the RNs and LPNs as follows:

RN Landings 782-640-1603

LPN Landings 902-719-8159

LPN Points 902-237-5827

RN Hills 902-870-9818

LPN Hills 902-237-8557

RN Coves 902-223-4317

LPN Coves 902-266-7508

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – December 15th, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

The holidays are fast approaching and a few questions have been raised in relation to Infection Control Protocols for DCGs and family members over the festive season. Please see below in regards to visiting our Northwood facilities.

A few things to remember when visiting the facilities:

Please wear a mask upon entering the facility.
Screening at the door is to be completed including hand hygiene and mask change.
When an outbreak occurs signage is posted at the entrance of the facilities to inform DCGs/Visitors.
DCGs, essential visitors, and specialized workers are permitted on an affected unit, non-essential visits should be postponed.
Compassionate exemptions should be granted (with any number of visitors) with measures in place and the home/floor will assist with this process.
DCG and visitors may remove their mask and have a meal with resident in the residents room- please make sure that there are no other residents/staff in the room when this occurs.
Resident contacts who are asymptomatic do not need to isolate & may leave the facility for off-site visits and essential appointments with informed consent of the person/people to be visited
All residents should be encouraged to wear a well-fitting medical mask & physically distance from others as much as possible when outside of their room
Visitors & DCGs are to avoid removing masks- unless in a designated eating area or resident room.

We wish you and your family a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – November, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Northwood is dedicated to keeping residents, clients, and staff safe. We would like to ensure residents and families that we continue to follow proper protocols to keep the Northwood community safe.

Moving forward, we will not be posting weekly or monthly updates on our COVID-19 page. Any sporadic COVID-19 activity may result in unit specific limitations. Any changes that occur will be communicated to families through our mass distribution email platform, directly from the unit or posted within the facility.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – August 5th, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Our Halifax Campus is seeing an increase in COVID cases this past week with staff, visitors and residents. We are working closely with Public Health/Medical Officer of Health and adhering to Public Health guidelines. We will continue to monitor and update families with significant changes that may occur. Please see restrictions for the facility during this time.

DCG’s

DCG’s can continue to visit loved ones.
Visitors are unable to visit 1 center, 6 Center, 3 Manor and 9 Manor. We will update once we can continue with visitors again.
Active screening will still be required upon entry.
Must continue to wear a mask upon entry of the facility-perform hand hygiene and change your mask.
All DCGs should be wearing masks at all times unless they have prearranged meal booked with a resident in a private space. Visitor/DCG must book with staff in regards to a prearranged meal.
Must wear Universal Pandemic precautions while visiting on unit- this includes mask and face shield at all times while on unit.
Do not come to the facility if you have symptoms.

Residents

Residents are encourage to continue to wear masks while in the common areas.
Residents are being monitored closely for symptoms.
If a resident has an outside appointment and are coming from an exposed unit- the clinic ( dentist, salon etc) must be notified first before a resident can take part.

Halifax Campus remains committed to keeping our residents and their loved ones safe and informed. DCGs will continue to be notified if their loved on is placed on precautions or is confirmed to have active COVID-19.

We kindly ask that DCGs and visitors report when they test positive. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks. Please continue to report this information as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – July 6th, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We are happy to announce changes to our COVID-19 restrictions within our Bedford /Halifax sites. We are still monitoring our COVID-19 risks and taking precautions when necessary. Presently, we have no active residents at our Bedford or Halifax sites. We continue to consult with Public Health and follow Public Health guidelines. These changes will be effective today, July 6^th , 2022.

DCG/Visitors

Proof of vaccination is no longer required upon entry of the facilities.
Active screening will still be required upon entry.
Please do not enter the facility with symptoms.
Must continue to wear a mask upon entry of the facility-perform hand hygiene and change your mask.
Must wear mask at all times while in facilities unless in a private personal area of visited resident. (no unmasked contact occurs with other residents or staff).
Up to 5 visitors can visit – larger groups will need to book a room such as Kaye’s Place.
DCG/Visitors are unable to eat in the common areas such as Harborview Lounge or Main Street.

Residents

Residents are encourage to continue to wear masks while in the common areas.

Recreation Activities

On main floor and common area activities such as bingo or church can be held with all residents, with a reminder to adhere to the Public Health guidelines to social distance and mask at all recreational activities.
Visitor/Tenants are able to join recreation activities on our main street areas. They must screen in as per usual – wear a mask / social distance with no eating or drinking during the program.

Northwood remains committed to keeping our residents and their loved ones safe and informed. The new reality is that COVID -19 is here to stay. With the changing level of precautions in the community, we are adjusting to a learning to live with COVID-19 approach. DCGS will continue to be notified if their loved one is placed on precautions or is confirmed to have active COVID-19.

We would like to thank all DCGs and visitors for reporting when they test positive. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks. Please continue to report this information as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – June 6th, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We are happy to say we have seen a decrease in COVID cases within our Bedford/Halifax facilities. We currently have no active cases at either facility. We are now able to loosen a few of our restrictions. With these changes we are still in consultation with Public Health and adhering to the Public Health guidelines.

DCG/Visitors

· Can now eat and drink in a residents room or private designated space that is booked such as Kaye’s Place etc.

· DCG/Visitors are unable to eat in the common areas such as Harborview lounge or main street.

Residents

· Can now come off home/floor at any time as the main street schedule has been discontinued

· Please encourage residents to continue to wear masks while in the common areas.

Recreation Activities

· On main floor and common area- activities such as bingo or church can be held with all residents- reminder to adhere to the Public Health Guidelines to social distant and masking at all recreational activities.

· Visitor/Tenants- are now able to join recreation activities on our main street areas. They must screen in as per usual – wear a mask / social distance with no eating or drinking during the program.

Northwood remains committed to keeping our residents and their loved ones safe and informed. The new reality is that COVID -19 is here to stay. With the changing level of precautions in the community, we are adjusting to a learning to live with COVID-19 approach. This will be our last weekly update. DCGS will continue to be notified if their loved on is placed on precautions or is confirmed to have active COVID-19.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – May 27, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result, we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses resulting in early investigations and increased precautions.

Halifax Long Term Care Campus

There is 1 resident who has active COVID-19 and 3 floors on outbreak status. Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). The outbreak is isolated and not considered facility wide. We are following outbreak measures and are working closely with public health.

Bedford Long Term Care Campus

We are pleased to report we have no residents with active COVID. We are happy to report we now have no homes in outbreak or on early investigation.

Due to the level of active COVID-19 cases and the number of exposures, we have decided to continue with our current protocols for masking, cohorting and physical distancing. We will continue to evaluate our protocols.

We would like to thank all DCGs and visitors for reporting when they test positive as soon as possible. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – May 19, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Long Term Care Campus

There are 4 residents who have active COVID-19 and 4 floors on outbreak status. Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). The outbreak is isolated and not considered facility wide. We are following outbreak measures and are working closely with public health.

Bedford Long Term Care Campus

We are pleased to report we have no residents with active COVID. We have 1 home on outbreak status and 5 homes on early investigation.

We would like to thank all DCGs and visitors for reporting when they test positive as soon as possible. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD, Long Term Care – May 12, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Long Term Care Campus

There are 4 residents who have active COVID-19. Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). The outbreak is isolated and not considered facility wide. We are following outbreak measures and are working closely with public health.

Bedford Long Term Care Campus

We are pleased that we now have no residents with active COVID.

We would like to thank all DCGs and visitors for reporting when they test positive as soon as possible. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – May 6, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Long Term Care Campus, There are 7 residents who have active COVID-19. Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). The outbreak is isolated and not considered facility wide. We are following outbreak measures and are working closely with public health.

Bedford Long Term Care Campus, We are pleased that we now have no residents with active COVID.

Due to the level of active COVID 19 cases and the number of exposures, we have decided to continue with our current protocols for masking, cohorting and physical distancing. We will continue to evaluate our protocols.

We would like to thank all DCGs and Visitors for reporting when they test positive As soon as possible. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – April 25, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Long Term Care Campus, has one floor with a confirmed outbreak. There is one resident who has active COVID-19. Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). The outbreak is isolated and not considered facility wide. We are following outbreak measures and are working closely with public health.

Bedford Long Term Care Campus, has one home with a confirmed outbreak and one home with a suspected outbreak. There are currently 3 residents with active COVID. Close contacts have received their booster. All confirmed individuals are isolating and COVID protocols are being followed.

Residents who live on a floor with a confirmed or suspected outbreak are to remain on their floor however will continue to be able to have DCG visits. Residents who are on unaffected floors are able to continue to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods. We would like to thank all DCGs and Visitors for reporting when they test positive As soon as possible. This reporting helps us track cases and increase precautions to help prevent outbreaks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – April 15, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID 19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses resulting in early investigations and increased precautions.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care now has a floor with a confirmed outbreak. There are currently 2 residents who have active COVID-19. Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM). The outbreak is isolated and not considered facility wide. We are following outbreak measures and are working closely with public health.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your understanding and patience!

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD HALIFAX CAMPUS – April 6, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We ask that you please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines. Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing, and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

All visitors and DCGs must not remove their masks at any time during their visit.
Visitors are permitted to visit on the floors only at this time. DCGs are permitted to bring loved ones to the courtyard.
Tenants are permitted to visit the courtyard but must remain masked while on the Long-term Care facility property.
Tenants must physically distance from residents and should remain masked.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.
If you have not received your booster, we strongly encourage you to do so. We are seeing the benefits of the booster in limiting sever symptoms of COVID.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD HALIFAX CAMPUS – March 25, 2022

Dear Residents, Clients, Tenants and Families,

We are very happy to announce that as of today March 25^th our Halifax Campus facility wide COVID outbreak is now declared over.

Effective March 28^th, 2022 at the Halifax Campus:

Tenants are now able to visit the main street area. Tenants must be screened in and a mask must be worn at all times.
5 visitors per resident at a time are welcome. This includes on floors in an early COVID-19 investigation.
Families can book a bigger visiting space if needed by contacting- 902-719-7523.
Residents that are covid susceptible and live on an affected floor or on a floor under early investigation for COVID-19 are to remain on their floor.
Residents that are on unaffected floors are able to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods and enjoy community access.
Overnight visits are now permitted.
All residents, regardless of vaccination status, may participate in social activities and personal services.
Proof of vaccination, screening, physical distancing and masking requirements for visitors and staff will remain in place.
More than one cohort of residents may participate in group activities at the same time while maintaining physical distancing between cohorts as much as possible.

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Campuses which result in early investigations and heightened precautions.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and have implemented all required protocols. We are following Public Health’s recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD-March 18, 2022

Dear Residents, clients, tenants and Families,

There are changes happening in our communities related to COVID-19 restrictions. Nova Scotia intends to enter Phase 3 of its reopening plan effective March 21st.

Long-term Care

Although masks and gathering limits will be lifted outside of Long-Term Care, we want to provide you with some clear direction on what will remain in place at our Northwood locations.

HALIFAX CAMPUS

Visitors

We currently are unable to have visitors, tenants in our apartments and members of our external community visit our Halifax Campus due to our facility outbreak status.
DCGs are able to continue to come into the facility.

Main Street

We are continuing to have a schedule for residents of long term care access to the Main Street area.
Please continue to wear masks at all times.
Residents have seating available for them in the Harbourview Lounge during their visits to MainStreet.

Community Access

Residents are able to have community access including public places or family homes.
Overnight visits are permitted at this time.
Please wear a mask while in the community.
Floors on precautions due to COVID are unable to visit Main Street or have community access at this time.

Masking and Hand Hygiene

Continue with diligent hand hygiene as this can keep you healthy and prevent the spread of infection to others around you.
Please continue to wear masks at all times.

BEDFORD CAMPUS

Visitors

Visitors must be able to provide proof of vaccination upon entering, participate in active screening, and wear required PPE (i.e. mask and face shield when appropriate).
Five visitors per resident if the facility has adequate space to manage comfortably.

Masking

Masks are required while visiting the main area.
During community visits please follow Public Health guidelines including social distancing and masking as much as possible.

Main Street

Please continue to wear masks.
The café is now open at scheduled times.
Residents are no longer required to remain in the same cohorts for group activities.

Community Access

Residents living on unaffected homes may have community access-this includes public places or family homes.
Guidelines will change depending on if a particular home/floor is in early investigation or in an outbreak.
Overnight visits are permitted at this time.
Please wear a mask while in the community.
Residents living on homes under early investigation for COVID-19 must isolate to their home but can go masked for a non-stop social drive with a masked DCG

Hand Hygiene

Continue with diligent hand hygiene as this can keep you healthy and prevents the spread of infections to others around you.

RETIREMENT LIVING

Due to the continued restrictions at the Halifax Campus, tenants are not able to access the Campus Main Street. Tenants are required to continue to wear masks in the hallways and common areas unless otherwise instructed. Screening will continue at the Manor entrance.

HOMECARE

Northwood Homecare meets the needs of those living independently or with family in the community. We have over 400 CCA’s delivering care to approximately 1600 clients. We assist with personal care, respites, light house cleaning, and meal preparation. Northwood continues to offer safe, quality service during the pandemic. We follow all government guidelines, and provide the required PPE to keep both clients and staff safe. Our staff will continue wear masks and other PPE in the home as per these guidelines.

Masking is not required for clients and others in the home but continues to be recommended. There may be circumstances where staff request clients or others in the home to be masked during care.

ADULT DAY

Three of our 4 locations are now open. Our Halifax site will open in early April. Program participants must be fully vaccinated to attend. We follow all government guidelines, and provide the required PPE to keep both clients and staff safe. Our staff will continue to wear masks and other PPE as per these guidelines.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – March 7, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Today marks the beginning of phase 2 of restriction changes in Nova Scotia. On Friday March 4^th the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care shared the transition and support plan for the continuing care sector. Please note that some of these restriction changes will depend on COVID activity within the facility.

As of today, March 7, 2022, the following changes are effective:

All residents, regardless of vaccination status, may have community access to indoor and outdoor public places and family homes.
Proof of vaccine is not required for individuals accompanying residents for off-site trips.
Overnight visits will not be permitted.
Residents may have up to three (3) visitors at a time if the facility has adequate space to manage visits comfortably.
Residents may have larger group visits for special occasions when pre-booked with facility to ensure adequate space and planning.
All residents, regardless of vaccination status, may participate in social activities and personal services.
More than one cohort of residents may participate in group activities at the same time while maintaining physical distancing between cohorts as much as possible.
Proof of vaccination, screening and masking requirements for visitors and staff will remain in place.

On March 21, 2022, when the province enters Phase 3, the following changes will be effective:

All residents, regardless of vaccination status, may have offsite overnight visits.
Residents may have up to five (5) visitors at a time if the facility has adequate space to manage visits comfortably.
Residents are no longer required to remain in the same cohorts for group activities.
Proof of vaccination, Physical distancing and masking requirements remain in place

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses which result in early investigations and heightened precautions.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: There are zero residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. Precautions remain in place and our facility remains in an outbreak status until two incubation periods are completed without additional cases. Residents that live on an affected floor or on a floor under early investigation for COVID-19 are to remain on their floor. Residents that are on unaffected floor are able to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods and enjoy community access.

We will let you know when we are able to lift the visitor restriction at the Halifax Campus.

Bedford Campus Long Term care: While outbreak restrictions are no longer necessary we continue to follow the Public Health Directive for LTC with precautions in place. We have several homes in an early investigation for COVID-19.

Some key points:

Visitors must be able to provide proof of vaccination upon entering, participate in active screening, and wear required PPE (ie mask and face shield when appropriate).
3 visitors per resident at a time including on homes in an early COVID-19 investigation.
Residents living on unaffected homes may have community access. Residents living on homes under early investigation for COVID-19 must isolate to their home but can go masked for a non-stop social drive with a masked DCG

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – February 28, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

There are no changes regarding the requirement for proof of vaccination for long-term care, home care and adult day programs. The Department of Seniors and Long Term Care is working on an approach that will transition and support the continuing care sector over the next month or so, and identify required protocols beyond March 21st.

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: There is currently 1 resident at our Halifax Campus who has active COVID-19. Precautions remain in place and our facility remains in an outbreak status until two incubation periods are completed without additional cases. Residents that live on an affected floor are remaining on their floor. Residents that are on the unaffected floors are able to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods.

We will let you know when we are able to lift the visitor restriction at the Halifax Campus.

Bedford Campus Long Term care: While outbreak restrictions are no longer necessary however we continue to follow the Public Health Directive for LTC with precautions in place.

Visitors are once again welcome at our Bedford campus. Some key points:

Visitors must be able to provide proof of vaccination upon entering, participate in active screening, and wear required PPE (ie mask and face shield when appropriate).
2 visitors per resident at a time.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – February 24, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Yesterday Premier Houston and Dr. Strang announced more details around the provincial reopening plan.

We’ve received confirmation from the Department of Seniors & LTC (DSLTC) that there will be no changes regarding proof of vaccination for long-term care, home care and adult day programs on February 28th, as more planning is required. The DSLTC is working on an approach that will transition and support the continuing care sector over the next month or so, and identify precautions recommended beyond March 21st.

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: There are currently 0 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. Precautions remain in place and our facility remains in an outbreak status until two incubation periods are completed without additional cases. Residents that live on an affected floor are remaining on their floor. Residents that are on the unaffected floors are able to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods.

We will let you know when we are able to lift the visitor restriction at the Halifax Campus.

Bedford Campus Long Term care: We are pleased to share that the Facility Outbreak has been declared over by the Medical Officer of Health. Outbreak restrictions are no longer necessary however we continue to follow the Public Health Directive for LTC with precautions in place.

Visitors are once again welcome at our Bedford campus. Some key points:

Visitors must be able to provide proof of vaccination upon entering, participate in active screening, and wear required PPE (ie mask and face shield when appropriate).
2 visitors per resident at a time.
Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:
Cough (new or worsening)
Fever (chills, sweats)
Headache
Runny nose or nasal congestion
Sore throat
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Diarrhea and Vomiting
Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – February 18, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are currently 3 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated. These individuals are isolating in their rooms. Residents that live on an affected floor are remaining on their floor. Residents that are on the unaffected floors are able to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods.

Those residents who test positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of an increased number of exposures to positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individuals (DCGs, staff), residents continue to be on restrictions. We currently have no residents who have active COVID-19. Unfortunately, due to our continued outbreak status, we are unable to lift the current visitor restrictions. We continue to welcome DCGs as part of the care team.

Hopefully, residents will soon be able to welcome additional visitors into their homes!

We will let you know when we are able to lift the visitor restriction.

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care – February 11, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are currently 5 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated. These individuals are isolating in their rooms. Residents that live on an affected floor must remain on the floor. Residents that are on the unaffected floors are able to visit our Main Street during scheduled periods.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of an increased number of exposures to positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individuals (DCGs, staff), residents continue to be on restrictions. We continue with our precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all homes regardless of exposure status. We currently have no residents who have active COVID-19

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD long Term Care – February 10, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Yesterday, government announced that a number of restrictions are being lifted as we learn to live with COVID- 19. This included an announcement allowing additional visitors to enter long term care facilities.

Unfortunately, due to our outbreak status, we are unable to lift the current visitor restrictions. We continue to welcome DCGs as part of the care team.

Hopefully, residents will soon be able to welcome additional visitors into their homes!

We will let you know when we are able to lift the visitor restriction.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD long Term Care – February 4, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are currently 2 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of an increased number of exposures to positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individuals (DCGs, staff), all residents are now on restrictions, isolating in their homes. We continue with our precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all homes regardless of exposure status. There are now 2 residents who have active COVID-19 in Bedford. These residents are vaccinated. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD long Term Care – February 1, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are currently 2 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term Care: As a result of an increased number of exposures to positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individuals (DCGs, staff), all residents are now on restrictions, isolating in their homes. We are initiated precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all homes regardless of exposure status. There continue to be 3 residents who have active COVID-19 in Bedford. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.

All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.

We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Home Support Program – January 31, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

With the growing number of individuals who are testing positive for COVID-19 in our communities, the risk of our staff being exposed to COVID-19 in the community continues to grow.

We currently have 7 staff off work who have tested positive for COVID and are considered active cases. Staff members who test positive are removed from their schedules and are advised to follow isolation protocols and are placed off work immediately. Staff who report they are experiencing any COVID symptoms are removed from their schedule and are advised to complete testing for COVID-19. When staff report they have close contact with someone from the community, they are not able to work until follow up testing is completed. As a result, there are can be more than 60 staff who are temporarily unable to provide service to their clients. This may result in temporary service delays and /or service reduction/disruption.

We apologize for the additional burden this places on our clients and their families as the safety for clients and staff is our priority.

Because COVID-19 is so prevalent in the community and many individuals themselves do not always know they are positive for COVID-19, we ask all staff members to be extremely cautious in every home, following strict COVID-19 protocols including wearing Personal Protective Equipment masks, face shields, gloves as well as gowns e.g. at all times when working in the home of a known positive client and during personal care for all clients as needed.

We do continue to serve clients who are COVID-19 positive. This is often a time that they need us most!

Our staff are experts at COVID-19 protocols. When these protocols are followed, the experience has been that the risk of transmission is low.

Every situation of a positive case or symptomatic client or staff is reported and investigated and follow up completed when necessary.

If any of our staff report a breach of COVID-19 protocols, the client and or their family are contacted if they are deemed to be at moderate or high risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 31, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

We continue to have staff and DCGs test positive or be in close contact with someone with COVID-19. This is primarily related to contacts that have occurred in the community. As a result we continue to have potential exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are currently a total of 2 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long-term Care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on an additional home are on restrictions, isolating in their home. There are 3 residents who are considered active COVID-19 cases in Bedford. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 28, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care:

Due to the number of contacts with positive or expose staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are currently a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care:

As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on an additional home are on restrictions, isolating in their home. There is currently 1 resident who has active COVID-19 in Bedford. This residents is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual is isolating in their room.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing, and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 25, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are a total of 4 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on an additional home are on restrictions, isolating in their home. There is 1 resident who has active COVID-19 in Bedford. This residents is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual is isolating in their room.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.3

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 24, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status. We continue to have recoveries and new positive cases. There are a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on several homes continue to stay on restrictions, isolating in their home. There is 1 resident who has active COVID-19 in Bedford. This residents is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual isolating in their room.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 20, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Campus Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status. There are a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus who have active COVID-19. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Campus Long Term Care: As a result of ongoing exposures to a COVID-19 positive or presumptive COVID-19 positive individual (DCGs, staff) residents on several homes continue to stay on restrictions, isolating in their home. We received test results from our swabbing process that we now have 1 positive resident. This resident is vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. This individual is isolating in their room.

Any resident who tests positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

We have been advised today by the Department of Seniors & Long Term Care (DSLTC) that access to Rapid Test kits is discontinued for Designated Caregivers who are visiting. This change went into effect this morning. Symptomatic DCGs should access PCR or rapid testing in the community. If the test is positive, they must not visit the LTCF for 10 days.

• Asymptomatic DCGs do not require rapid antigen testing to enter LTC facilities but must continue to be screened and to adhere to all IPAC protocols.

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancin20

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD Long Term Care– January 19, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Halifax Long Term Care: Due to the number of contacts with positive or exposed staff and DCGs, residents on all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions, isolating on their floor. We are continuing with the precautionary facility-wide resident swabbing strategy for all floors in both buildings regardless of exposure status.

There are a total of 4 residents at our Halifax Campus who are active COVID-19 cases. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms. These individuals are isolating in their rooms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).

Bedford Long Term care: As a result of exposure with an individual who is COVID-19 positive, residents on several homes continue to stay on restrictions, isolating in their home.

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Jan 17, 2022- Northwood Home Support Program- COVID-19 Update

With the growing number of individuals who are testing positive for COVID-19 in our communities, the risk of our staff being exposed to COVID-19 in the community continues to grow.

We currently have 8 staff who are considered active COVID-19 cases. Staff members who test positive are removed from their schedules and are advised to follow isolation protocols and are placed off work immediately. Staff who report they are experiencing respiratory symptoms are removed from their schedule and are advised to complete testing for COVID-19. When staff report they have been a close contact with someone from the community, they are not able to work until follow up testing is completed. As a result, there are currently more than 100 staff who are temporarily unable to provide service to their clients. This may result in temporary service delays and /or service reduction/disruption.

We apologize for the additional burden this places on our clients and their families as the safety for our clients and staff is our priority.

Because. COVID-19 is so prevalent in the community and many individuals themselves do not always know they are positive for COVID-19, in this environment we ask every staff member to be extremely cautious in every home, following strict COVID-19 protocols including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (masks, face shields gloves as well as gowns when appropriate e.g. during personal care) at all times.

We do continue to serve clients who are COVID-19 positive. This is often a time that they need us most!

Our staff are experts at COVID-19 protocols. When these protocols are followed, the experience has been that the risk of transmission is minimal.

Every situation of a positive case or symptomatic client or staff is reported and investigated and follow up completed when necessary.

If any of our staff report a breach of COVID-19 protocols in a high risk home, the client and or their family are contacted if they are deemed to be at risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

WEBSITE UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 17, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses. While we have had a number of staff recoveries, we continue to have new staff that are either positive or a close contact of someone who is positive.

Due to the number of contacts, we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions. We have a number of homes on isolation at our Bedford campus.

We have had a number of resident recoveries and one new positive resident in Halifax. There are a total of 3 residents at our Halifax Campus with active COVID-19.

These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) .

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.

All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.

It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.

We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD

Jan 14, 2022- Northwood Home Support Program

Northwood is contracted by the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care to provide home support services in HRM and Hants West. In the program, our team of CCAs provide personal care, respite, palliative care, meal preparation etc. to support our clients to remain in their own home. We are currently supporting more than 1500 clients across these communities. We normally have over 450 staff.

With the growing number of individuals who are testing positive for COVID-19 in our communities, the risk of our staff being exposed to COVID-19 in the community continues to grow.

There have been 31 staff who have tested positive for COVID-19, many have now recovered. Staff members who test positive are removed from their schedules and are advised to follow isolation protocols and are placed off work immediately. Staff who report they are experiencing respiratory symptoms are removed from their schedule and are advised to complete testing for COVID-19. When staff report they have had close contact with someone from the community, they are not able to work until follow up testing is completed. As a result, there are currently more than 120 staff who are temporarily unable to provide service to their clients. This may result in temporary service delays and /or service reduction/disruption.

We apologize for the additional burden this places on our clients and their families as the safety for our clients and staff is our priority.

Because COVID-19 is so prevalent in the community and many individuals themselves do not always know they are positive for COVID-19, in this environment, we ask every staff member to be extremely cautious in every home, following strict COVID-19 protocols including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (masks and face shields as well as gowns when appropriate) at all times.

We do continue to serve clients who are COVID-19 positive. This is often a time that they need us most!

Our staff are experts at COVID-19 protocols. When these protocols are followed, the experience has been that the risk of transmission is minimal.

Every situation of a positive case or symptomatic client or staff is reported and investigated, with follow up completed when necessary.

If any of our staff report a breach of COVID-19 protocols in a high risk home, the client and or their family are contacted if they are deemed to be at risk of exposure to COVID-19.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 12, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Due to the number of contacts, we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors at our Halifax campus continue to stay on restrictions.

There are a total of 6 residents at our Halifax Campus who are active COVID-19 cases. These residents live on 4 different units in the facility.

These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms.

Those residents who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified as well as their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) .

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 10, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax and Bedford Campuses.

Bedford Campus residents will continue to be swabbed if they have had an exposure in consultation with Public Health.

Due to the number of contacts we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors continue to stay on restrictions. We are beginning a precautionary swabbing schedule for all Halifax Campus residents.

There is a total of 4 residents at our Halifax Campus who are active COVID-19 cases. These residents are vaccinated with no symptoms or minor symptoms.

Those who are positive and/or are close contacts are notified including their SDM.

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing, and proper masking are required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 6, 2022.

Dear Residents and Families,

As you are aware, the number of individuals with COVID-19 in Nova Scotia continues to grow. As a result, we continue to have exposures within our Halifax Campus this week. Due to the number of contacts we are receiving from staff and DCGs, all floors continue to stay on restrictions.

There is now a total of 9 residents on one unit who have tested positive. Residents are vaccinated with a few showing minor symptoms.

Those who are positive and/or are close contacts have been notified including their SDM.

DCGs continue to be a critical part of the resident care team, providing support and assisting in care provision during these challenging times.
All staff and DCGs are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test before entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.
We are asking that DCGs do not bring food to staff on the floors at this time. While we appreciate all the support you have been providing staff, due to infection control issues, staff must eat in designated areas so they can safely remove their masks.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – January 2, 2021.

Dear Residents and Families,

Over the last several days we have had COVID-19 positive staff and DCGs at both our Halifax and Bedford campuses.

Additional residents on an isolated floor have tested positive for COVID. There are now a total of 6 residents who have tested positive. Residents are vaccinated and are not experiencing any symptoms.

Those who are positive and/or are close contacts have been notified including their SDM.

All staff and DCG’s are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid testbefore entering and within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 31, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Over the last several days we have had COVID-19 positive staff and DCGs at both our Halifax and Bedford campuses.

In Halifax, we currently have residents on 1 Center, 4 Manor and 7 Manor in isolation.

A resident on an isolated unit has now tested positive.

Those who are considered close contacts and their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) are being contacted.

· All staff and DCG’s are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.

· It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Northwood Home Support/ Health Services COVID-19 Update:

Our communities continue to struggle with COVID-19. As a result of the growing number of COVID-19 cases, we are seeing a growing number of clients and staff who have had close contacts with a positive case or have tested positive.

We are implementing full PPE. Staff will now begin wearing gowns. Thus far in this wave, we have been very successful at minimizing transmission from our clients to staff and staff to clients. This is a testament to the effectiveness of full PPE and the sound infection control practices of our team.

We are working hard to ensure this continues.

You can help

Please wear a 3 ply cloth mask or a medical mask while staff are in the home,

Please ask that all visitors or other family members leave the room whenever possible during the visit to reduce the chance of transmission,

Please contact your Supervisor if you or anyone in your family has tested positive or has been deemed to be a close contact of a positive client.

We thank you for your assistance in keeping our clients, our staff and all Nova Scotians safe.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 29, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Over the last several days we have had covid positive staff and DCGs at both our Halifax and Bedford sites. All of our cases remain unrelated.

We are continuing to work with Public Health through each case and implement all required protocols. We will keep residents and SDMs updated on testing results. All residents who were eligible for booster doses have received their vaccine. All staff are vaccinated according to Public Health Mandates.

Strict adherence to precautions is essential and include:

All staff and DCG’s are required to wear face shields and masks on all floors.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Please remember to continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines: Proper PPE usage, hand washing, physical distancing and proper masking is required to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD BEDFORD – December 27, 2021

Dear Residents and Families:

We have been advised that a Designated Care Giver (DCG) has tested positive for COVID at our Northwood Bedford Campus. We are following our protocols and are doing testing and isolation precautions for any residents or staff who are considered contacts.

We have been in consultation with Public Health and are following their recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts – including isolation and swabbing. Those who are considered close contacts or their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) are being notified.

We are continuing with the current Public Health protocols including ensuring residents receive their boosters as soon as they are eligible, added personal protective equipment, precautions and masking for residents when they leave their homes. Current visiting will not be interrupted for residents other than those determined as close contacts.

We will provide further updates if there are any changes.

It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD HALIFAX – December 27, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We have been advised that three staff members and a Designated Care Giver (DCG) have tested positive for COVID at our Northwood Halifax Campus. These positive cases are not connected. The staff members and DCG were compliant in wearing Personal Protective Equipment including a mask and face shield.

We are continuing with the current Public Health protocols including ensuring residents receive their boosters as soon as they are eligible, added personal protective equipment, precautions, and masking for residents when they leave their homes.

We will provide further updates if there are any changes.

It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 23, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We have been advised that a staff member has tested positive for COVID at our Northwood Bedford Campus. The staff member has not had symptoms and has had limited contact with residents and staff. The staff member was compliant in wearing Personal Protective Equipment including a mask and face shield.

We have been in consultation with Public Health and are following their recommendations for added testing and precautions for any residents or staff who are considered close contacts. We were informed this is not considered an outbreak situation as residents have received their booster dose.

We are continuing with the current Public Health protocols including ensuring residents receive their boosters as soon as they are eligible, added personal protective equipment, precautions, and masking for residents when they leave their homes. Current visiting will not be interrupted for residents other than those determined as contacts.

We will provide further updates if there are any changes.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 22, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We have had a number of requests to change DCGs over the holidays.

Due to the resources we have with increased precautions, we have limited capacity to train and support the onboarding of new DCGs.

We will consider requests on a case by case basis. During this period of heightened precautions, the only individuals who will be considered to be a new DCG, are those who have previously visited our facilities.

Changes that are made to DCGs will be permanent unless a DCG is no longer able to fill the role. We cannot accommodate temporary changes in DCGs.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 21, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Today Premier Houston and Dr. Strang announced that further restrictions are required to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect those who work and live at Northwood.

Effective at 6am Dec 22^nd the following restrictions will continue or go into effect:

Residents are permitted to have two (2) consistent fully vaccinated visitors. Designated Care Giver’s (DCGs) are included in the total of two (2). Northwood has determined that the two (2) visitors will be the DCGs.
It is strongly recommended that anyone visiting LTC have a rapid test within 24 hours of entering the facility.
Residents may only leave the facility for medical appointments. No other stops in the community are permitted and public health measures must be maintained.
Residents who are fully vaccinated and have received their booster dose may leave the facility to go for a drive with their DCG provided there is no contact with anyone else. Drive-thrus are permitted.
Residents who have not received their booster dose are not permitted to participate in group recreational activities or receive non-essential personal services from outside service providers.
Residents who do not have their booster dose are still able to participate in facility-based recreation not provided by outside providers.
A mask must continue to be worn at all times by visiting Designated Care Givers. Eating and drinking will not be permitted during visits.
Along with staff, DCGs will be required to wear a face shield or goggles with their masks while on floors/homes.
Programing such as church and larger group activities which bring people from multiple areas together are temporarily cancelled. We will be focusing on small floor/house specific programming and/or 1:1 activities.

We know this is a difficult message for many to receive especially at this time of the year.

We continue to be grateful for those who understand and are supportive of our efforts to keep our community as safe as possible.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 20, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are closely monitoring the COVID situation in our province and will continue to adapt and adjust our restrictions as needed.

Due to increasing COVID cases and exposure notices we have made the decision to temporarily implement additional restrictions effective immediately:

Visitors and Designated Care Givers (DCGs) must wear a mask at all times. Eating and drinking will not be permitted during the visit.

Visitors must physically distance from residents and others.

We must make all efforts to reduce risk for residents and staff to prevent the stress of isolation due to exposure. An exposure when masked is less likely than an unmasked exposure.

Programing such as church and larger group activities which bring people from multiple areas together are temporarily cancelled. We will be focusing on small floor/house specific programming and/or 1:1 activities.

We know this is a difficult message for many to receive and we are grateful for those who understand and are supportive of our efforts to keep our community as safe as possible.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please complete a rapid test before entering any facility.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 16, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Yesterday, December 15 2021, we received updated LTC guidelines. In light of these updates Northwood will be implementing the following changes on Dec 17, 2021.

A limit of 2 visitors and 2 DCGs at a time for each resident. The visitors do not have to be the same two visitors each time.
It is recommended each visitor complete a rapid test 24hrs prior to entering a facility.
Visitors are able to move within the facility as long as they are masked and physically distanced from others.
Visitors can have a quick close contact with the resident, such as a hug but after, must remain physically distanced.
Visitors must wear a mask at all times with the exception when eating or drinking but must remain physically distanced from resident and others.
Visitors are unable to attend recreation activities within the facilities at this time.
All residents are able to access Main Street/common areas but are required to wear a mask as well as physically distance from others.
Group activities can take place off the unit/home but residents must be masked and physically distanced to take part.
Fully vaccinated residents may leave the facility for community access and overnight visits. (Strongly recommended to have booster dose completed)
Unvaccinated residents are able to attend medical appointments only.

All residents no matter their vaccination status who take part in community access (including medical appointments) must:

Isolate upon return to the facility until a PCR swab is completed. Once the result comes back negative the resident may come off isolation. Additional serial swab testing will be required on day 3 and day 6 post community access.
Although a resident must be isolated in the facility a resident may continue to access the community when they are awaiting their swab result. They must have a plan to return immediately to the facility if they test positive.
If a resident goes out into the community repeatedly they will be re-swabbed upon return and required to isolate until a negative result is received. The serial swabbing requirement on day 3 and 6 will begin again from the date that they return from community.

Thank you for your patience while we work through these upcoming changes within our facilities.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 14, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases within the province and the announcement made yesterday by Premier Houston and Dr. Strang, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Northwood will be implementing the following changes on Dec 17, 2021.

A limit of 2 visitors at a time for each resident. These visitors do not have to be the same two visitors each time.
It is recommended each visitor complete a rapid test 24hrs prior to entering a facility.
Visitors are to remain on the unit/homes and within the resident’s room during their visit.
Visitors can have a quick close contact with the resident, such as a hug but after, must remain physically distanced.
Visitor must wear a mask at all times- no eating or drinking while visiting.
Visitors are unable to attend recreation activities within the facilities at this time.
There will be changes taking place with upcoming activities that include decreasing group sizes, encouraging residents to wear a mask when off unit and physical distancing as much as possible.
Resident can leave for overnight visits – the resident must be fully vaccinated (Booster dose is strongly recommend).

There may be additional changes in the following days.

Please do not enter the facility if you are sick or have one or more of the symptoms below:

Cough (new or worsening)

Fever (chills, sweats)

Headache

Runny nose or nasal congestion

Sore throat

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Diarrhea and Vomiting

Please continue with meticulous hand hygiene, proper masking, and physical distancing.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – December 9, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to announce overnight visit restrictions have been lifted for all zones within Nova Scotia as of Dec 7, 2021. All long-term care residents throughout the province may continue to leave the facilities to participate in the community.

Residents who are planning overnight visits, please contact nursing staff so medication arrangements can be made in advance.

With the holidays approaching and families gatherings, please remember to follow public health guidelines: Masking, hand washing and physical distancing as much as possible to keep our residents safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – November 9^th, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Through our ongoing screening protocols, a staff member of Northwood’s Halifax Campus was identified as positive for COVID- 19. Contact tracing is underway and we are working closely with Public Health. We are swabbing all staff and residents who were in contact with the staff member. The substitute decision maker of any resident who has been in contact with the staff member will be notified.

Public Health has not deemed this situation as an outbreak.

Precautionary protocols have been put in place. For example,

General visits with the residents living in the area where the employee worked have been temporarily placed on hold. This does not include Designated Care Givers.
Residents living in the area have been asked not to travel off their floor.

Northwood has continued our screening, swabbing and mask wearing protocols for all those entering our buildings and vaccination is mandatory for all visitors.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COVID-19 Updates

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – November 8, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Effective November 30, 2021 all visitors coming into our apartment buildings must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

Visitors coming into our Manor or Centre building will be asked to show proof of vaccination and photo ID when being screened. If you are not vaccinated you will be turned away.

For visitors coming into Northwood Place, Almon Place or Northwood Towers, you can be randomly asked to provide proof by one of our employees. Our employees are required to wear a Northwood ID badge.

We thank-you for understanding the needs of our vulnerable clients who live at Northwood.

PLEASE SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH YOUR FAMILY AND VISITORS!

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Important Notice Re: Reporting Vaccination Status – Northwood Staff

As many of you are now aware, Premier Houston, Minister Thompson, and Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, recently made a number of important announcements. Starting on November 30, 2021 Northwood staff in all program areas including Corporate Office, Home Care, Health Services and Adult Day, students participating in placements/training at a Northwood worksite, volunteers, contractors, and designated support persons must provide Northwood with proof of COVID-19 vaccination status or proof of a valid exemption from vaccination under human rights legislation.

Northwood is fortunate to have the majority of staff vaccinated. We are now required to ensure all staff provide proof of vaccination by November 30, 2021.

If staff need assistance or have questions on how to get their vaccine, please contact Occupational Health as soon as possible.

If you are getting the Pfizer or Moderna it is important to understand, the last possible date to get your first dose of these vaccines is October 19^th, 2021 (in order to be “fully vaccinated” by November 30^th).

Definition of Fully Vaccinated

A person is considered fully vaccinated when they have received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine that is authorized as a two-dose schedule or one dose of COVID-19 vaccine that is authorized as a one-dose schedule and it has been a minimum of 14 days since their final dose was administered, regardless of their age.

If you have not received a first dose, it is important that you book your vaccination ASAP in order to receive your second dose and have the required 14-day period to build immunity before November 30^th.

How to Report your Vaccination Status

If you have been vaccinated at Northwood or through the Nova Scotia Health Clinics arranged by Northwood, Occupational Health will have your vaccination status.

If you have arranged your own appointment through Nova Scotia Health or a community clinic, you are required to submit proof of vaccination. You can submit your documentation to the Occupational Health team in the following ways:

· In person to Occupational Health

· Via email to covidvaccine@nwood.ns.ca

· Via Fax at 902-493-5614

· Occupational Health can view CANImmunize for your vaccination record. Your permission is required. You will need to provide your Health Card Number and DOB.

You are required to provide proof of vaccination in order to work on December 1, 2021. Occupational Health will contact you if your vaccine status is unknown.

Medical Exemptions

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from getting the vaccination, you will be asked to provide written proof to Occupational Health that you are unable to receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on the medical exceptions for Covid-19 vaccination as outlined here on the Nova Scotia Government website. Please also see Northwood’s Duty to Accommodate Policy.

Privacy/Consent Notice: Submitting your proof of vaccination in person or sending in via email/ fax implies your consent for the verification process. Proof of vaccination will not be retained by Northwood or the Occupational Health Department. Once the verification process is complete, proof of vaccination will be destroyed (deleted or shredded). An electronic record that you demonstrated proof of vaccine will be kept on file indicating “yes”/”no” you have been vaccinated against COVID-19.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – October 5, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Thank you for your patience as we work to clarify all the details of the Phase 5 changes to Long-Term Care that came into effect October 4, 2021.

We have receive clarification from the Department of Seniors and Long Term Care that effective October 4, 2021:

• All visitors to long-term care must be fully vaccinated. Proof of vaccination must be provided by visitors who wish to visit a loved one in LTC. This does not include designated caregivers, professionals (such as lawyers or financial advisors), or children under 12 years of age.

• Residents may not leave the facility with visitors who are not fully vaccinated. This does not include designated caregivers.

• All LTC residents throughout the province may leave their facility to participate in activities in the community. All residents may attend overnight visits except when the overnight visit will occur in Central zone. This means residents of any zone (including central zone) may attend overnight visits that occur outside of the Central zone.

· Facilities may make exceptions to visiting restrictions for non-vaccinated visitors in instances where the resident is palliative. Non-vaccinated visitors who attend LTC facilities to visit a palliative resident must wear a mask and follow all PPE and distancing guidelines.

As many of you are now aware, Premier Houston, Minister Thompson, and Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, recently made a number of important announcements. Starting on November 30, all health care workers, DCGs, volunteers, visitors, and contractors entering all Northwood facilities will need to provide a proof of full vaccination. This will also apply to Home Care workers.

Due to rising COVID-19 numbers in Nova Scotia and especially in Central Zone, Northwood continues to follow Public Health directives. These directives are necessary to keep our residents and staff safe.

Please continue watching for updates over the coming days and weeks.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – October 1, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

As many of you are now aware, yesterday Premier Houston, Minister Thompson, and Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, made a number of important announcements. Starting on November 30, all health care workers, DCGs, volunteers, visitors, and contractors entering all Northwood facilities will need to provide a proof of full vaccination. This will also apply to Home Care workers.

Due to rising COVID-19 numbers in Nova Scotia and especially in Central Zone, Northwood is following the new Public Health directives and suspending all overnight visits until further notice. This only applies to overnight visits. Residents will continue to have community access. This new directive is necessary to keep our residents and staff safe.

Please continue watching for updates over the coming days and weeks.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – September 29, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Premier Houston, Minister Thompson, and Dr. Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, have made an important announcement mandating that all health care workers will need to be fully vaccinated by November 30. At that time, all Employees will need to show proof of vaccination. Any staff members who are fully vaccinated can send their proof of vaccination to Org Health. Employees have until November 30 to be fully vaccinated.

This mandate will also apply to DCGs, volunteers, visitors, and contractors entering all Northwood facilities.

We will have further details in the coming days.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – September 20, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Through our ongoing screening protocols, a staff member of Northwood’s Halifax Campus was identified as positive for COVID- 19. Contact tracing began immediately. We have been working with Public Health to swab all staff and residents who were in contact with the staff member. At this point, all test results have been negative.

Precautionary protocols have been put in place. For example, general visits with the residents living on that floor have been temporarily placed on hold. Families of the residents who were deemed in contact with staff member have been notified.

This situation is not deemed an outbreak.

Northwood has continued our screening, swabbing and mask wearing protocols for all those entering our buildings.

Currently, 88% of staff at the Halifax campus have been vaccinated.

If further positive cases are identified, we will provide additional communication.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – August 9, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

While the province remains in Phase 4 we are pleased to provide an update that additional restrictions are now being lifted in long-term care effective August 9.

Regardless of immunization status, all residents may now:

Visit a family home or Designated Caregiver’s home, for up to 7 days, anywhere within Atlantic Canada.
Visit the home of someone other than a family member or Designated Caregiver, within Atlantic Canada.
Visit a resident in another long-term care facility. Overnight stays are not permitted.

Please make arrangements with the RN/LPN of your home/floor in advance of a home visit to ensure medication is available to take on a pass.

We are pleased to welcome all visitors into our facilities. Visits in resident rooms continue to be welcomed between 10am and 8pm. Visits do not need to be scheduled in advance for two or less visitors.
Visiting groups larger than two must be booked in advance for a designated visiting space by calling 902-454-4408 for the Halifax Campus and 902-407-8520 for the Bedford Campus.
Visitors will continue to be screened in to the facility upon arrival. Visitors who have any symptoms of COVID-19 will not be permitted into the facility. Any visitor who has travelled from outside of the Atlantic Provinces must isolate as per public health guidelines and must have a negative swab prior to entering the facility and be able to provide proof.
Visitors may attend social activities with a resident if physical distance is maintained from other residents/visitors. Visitors are not permitted to attend mealtimes in the dining room with a resident.
Election candidates are permitted to visit a single resident or hold a group session in a common area. Door to door canvassing of residents is not permitted.
Families/Visitors are required to wear a mask during visits to all Northwood facilities however visitors may remove their mask in order to eat or drink during an indoor or outdoor visit in a designated visitation area or a resident’s room.

We are pleased that additional restrictions are being eased within the provincial directives. These easements are encouraging for everyone.

Vaccinations for all members of the Northwood community are strongly recommended to ensure everyone can participate in these easements safely. New residents will continue to receive their needed vaccinations within Northwood while staff, DCGs, visitors and volunteers now have access to community clinic booking.

We would also like to remind everyone that anyone with even one symptom of COVID-19 cannot enter the facilities.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

GUIDELINES FOR LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES IN NOVA SCOTIA

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – JULY 20, 2021

Dear DCGs and families,

As the third COVID wave continues and restrictions begin to ease, we must all remember the importance of the vaccine and regular COVID-19 testing. We are very happy to have been able to offer in-house swabbing clinics for our Designated Caregivers during the second, and third waves.

We are announcing today that the in-house Northwood swabbing clinics for DCGs will no longer be available as of August 1st. The DCG program is important and essential to the mental well-being of all our residents. Now that restrictions have started to ease, we feel it is the right time to discontinue our Northwood swabbing clinics.

We encourage our DCGs to make use of the many community opportunities to continue to be swabbed each week. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and if there is a need, we may decide to open up testing to DCGs again in the future. Please find below information on the swabbing clinic options in our community. If you have any questions or concerns, please call 902-454-3381.

https://www.nshealth.ca/service-details/COVID-19%20Rapid%20Testing

https://www.nshealth.ca/public-health-mobile-units

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – JULY 14, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to provide an update on the recent easement of restrictions.

All residents are now permitted full community access. This does not include family home visits for partially and non vaccinated residents.
Fully vaccinated residents may now enjoy visits in the family home (including overnight stays for no more than one night at a time). Please make arrangements with the RN/LPN of your home/floor in advance to ensure medication is available to take on pass.
All residents can leave the facility to visit indoor and outdoor public places (like parks, stores and restaurants).
Indoor visits in residents rooms will resume for all residents starting July 15^th between 10am and 8pm. Visits do not need to be scheduled in advance for two or less visitors.
Visitors will be screened in to the facility upon arrival. Visitors who have any symptoms of COVID-19 will not be permitted in to the facility. Any visitor who has travelled from outside of the Atlantic Provinces must isolate as per public health guidelines and must have a negative swab prior to entering the facility and be able to provide proof.
Visitors will need to log in and out and will be provided an education sheet. Visiting groups larger than two must be booked in advance for a designated visiting space by calling 902-454-4408 for the Halifax Campus and 902-407-8520 for the Bedford Campus.
Residents may now travel on public transit such as Metro Transit, including where residents could be on the same bus as the general public.
Families/Visitors are still required to wear a mask during visits to all Northwood facilities.

We are pleased that additional restrictions are being eased within the provincial directives. These easements are encouraging for everyone.

Vaccinations for all members of the Northwood community are strongly recommended to ensure everyone can participate in these easements safely. New residents will continue to receive their needed vaccinations within Northwood while staff, DCGs, visitors and volunteers now have access to community clinic booking.

We would also like to remind everyone that anyone with even one symptom of COVID-19 cannot enter the facilities.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – JUNE 30, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to provide an update on the recent easement of restrictions.

Fully vaccinated residents are now permitted full community access. This includes retail stores, restaurants, banks, Adult Day programs, work and school. This does not include visits in the family home.
Residents and DCGs may now enjoy a meal together at Lawley’s at our Halifax Campus.
All residents may access outdoor public areas (parks, boardwalks, etc.) with DCG or independently – residents need to maintain physical distancing and may not come in contact with others.
Residents are able to enjoy refreshments during visits (visitor are not permitted to eat or drink).
Social distancing is no longer required for outdoor visits (including residents who are partially vaccinated or not vaccinated).
Indoor visits in a designated area will resume for fully vaccinated Residents and may be booked starting July 6^th by calling 902-454-4408 for the Halifax Campus and 902-407-8520 for the Bedford Campus.
Families are still required to wear a mask during visits to all Northwood facilities.

We are pleased that additional restrictions are being eased within the provincial directives. These easements are encouraging for everyone.

We would also like to remind everyone that anyone with even one symptom of COVID-19 cannot enter the facilities.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

VISITATION GUIDELINES

CCIR 21-111.0 Attachment COVID-19 Guidelines for LTC Visits – June 30 2021

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – JUNE 15, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to provide an update on the recent easement of restrictions.

Residents are able to dine together and recreation activities may resume without cohorting.
Residents are able to go for walks off the grounds of the facility with a DCG or independently if agreed upon by resident/staff. They are required to maintain physical distancing and may not come in contact with others.
Partially vaccinated and non-vaccinated residents may now book appointments at the beauty salon.
Social drives may now include a drive-through and no longer need to be prescheduled. Resident/DCG are asked to inform the floor/home that the resident will be going out of the facility for a drive, sign in and out on the floor/home and be screened in at the door upon their return. DCG will be responsible for picking up and dropping off the resident and communicating the departure and arrival with staff.
Fully vaccinated residents may access outdoor public areas (parks, boardwalks, etc.) with DCG or independently – residents need to maintain physical distancing and may not come in contact with others.
It is very exciting that the Volunteer program will be resuming as well. Volunteer Resources will reach out to existing volunteers to discuss next steps.

We are pleased that additional restrictions are being eased within the provincial directives. These easements are encouraging for everyone.

We would also like to remind everyone that anyone with even one symptom of COVID-19 cannot enter the facilities.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

HALIFAX DRIVES

BEDFORD DRIVES

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – JUNE 9, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We know individuals and their families have many questions and concerns about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how the spread of this virus may impact their health as well as access to home care services and long-term care.

The attached fact sheets will serve as a resource for individuals and families, should they have questions or concerns or require additional information about receiving services at this time.

Moving to long-term care during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Home Care Visits Home Care Service during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Home Care Visits

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – JUNE 3, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are very pleased to announce that effective June 7^th, 2021 Northwood is able to resume Designated Caregivers taking loved ones for a non-stop social drive.

Please review the documents below for further details.

BEDFORD

HALIFAX

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 31, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to provide an update on the recent easement of restrictions.

• Currently residents are able to come off their floor/home/wing living area unescorted or escorted based on their needs to access the outdoors within Northwood property. With the new easements, residents who are fully vaccinated are able to go for escorted walks around the facility grounds. For residents who like to ride, Northwood will soon be able to offer Trishaw bike rides around the facility.
• Both Designated Caregivers can now visit at the same time. When on the floor/home/wing the visit must continue to take place within the resident’s room. DCGs can escort the resident off the floor/home/wing to the outdoors during designated times.
• Outdoor visits will begin on June 2, 2021 by appointment. Screening will be completed and visitors will be escorted to the outdoor area.
• We are excited to have the beauty salon reopening. The stylist will resume appointments for vaccinated residents on Tuesday June 8, 2021.
• Social drives will also resume on Monday June 7, 2021.

We are pleased that additional restrictions are being eased within the provincial directives. These easements are encouraging for everyone. Vaccinations for all members of the Northwood community are recommended to ensure everyone can participate in the easement safely. New residents will continue to receive their needed vaccinations within Northwood while staff, DCGs and visitors now have access to community clinic booking. Staff and Designated Caregivers’ are reminded that asymptomatic testing continues and is recommended weekly.

We would also like to remind everyone that anyone with even one symptom of COVID-19 cannot enter the facilities.

Halifax Booking Line: 902-454-4408

Bedford Booking Line: 902-407-8520

The process will include:

Visits will be booked on a first-come basis and will be accommodated in outdoor spaces only at this time.
Visitors must wear masks at all times during the visit.
Visitors must be screened as per the guidelines.
Food can not be shared at the visit because masks must be worn at all times.

Residents who are fully vaccinated will not need to physical distance during their visit with family
Residents who are not vaccinated will need to remain physically distanced during the visit
Residents can only remove their mask when it affects communication.

Please note that dedicated outdoor visiting space is limited. We will balance visiting with resident access to outdoor spaces.

Welcome Back!

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 30, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Today we have been advised by Public Health that a staff member who has recently worked on 4 and 7 Manor at the Northwood Halifax Campus has tested positive for COVID-19. We are following all public health directions and have swabbed all residents on the affected floor. We’ve been told that the risk is low however we are implementing additional safety measures until swab results are known. We will have initial results within 48 hours.

We do not expect that this will impact our plans for the loosened restrictions allowing increased visitations. We will be releasing our plans for outdoor visits on Monday, May 31. If you are a DCG you are able to continue to visit and would encourage you to participate in our asymptomatic Testing clinics offered on site. Please monitor our website for additional information.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 28, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We were very happy to hear the announcements made today by Dr. Strang and Premier Rankin regarding the easement of directives. We will be reviewing the directives and determining how we can safely implement these changes.

More information will be available on Monday.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 28, 2021

Public Health has confirmed that one of our Home-care/ Home Support Program staff has tested positive for COVID-19.

The individual is isolating as required and we are working with Public Health to support contact tracing. Individuals needed to be contacted have been.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 11, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to announce that because of the ongoing negative results from our COVID – 19 testing, Public Health has notified us that we can begin easing the increased temporary restrictions required. This means residents will be able to resume an off floor schedule that will be effective today.

The schedules ensure residents are bubbled into small groups. We will monitor the situation in the community and as cases decrease we will reassess the ability to further ease restrictions and enable residents to have more time off their floor.

We thank staff and Designated Caregivers for their amazing work to keep residents safe!

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 10, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

The Northwood Halifax team continues to work with Public Health testing staff and residents. We are happy to report that all tests results continue to be negative.

We would like to thank all of our amazing Northwood staff for their hard work over the last week as well as throughout the pandemic. You all continue to amaze us with your courage and dedication.

We appreciate all of your patience and understanding as we continue to face COVID head-on and keep it out of all Northwood facilities.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MAY 9, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

On Saturday we were notified that one of our Home Care workers has tested positive for COVID. The Home Care worker is self isolating as required. We are working with Public Health regarding our contact tracing.

It was reported online yesterday by media that this Home Care worker works at the Northwood LTC facility in Halifax. This information is incorrect. The COVID positive Home Care worker is employed by Northwood Home Care and works in the community not in a LTC facility.

We will continue to update the website with new information as we receive it.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Guidelines for PPE Use for Home Support Workers

Dear Residents and Families,

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.

Dear Residents and Families,

We are happy to report that after significant testing we are not reporting any new cases of COVID-19 to date. Currently, the one staff member who tested positive for COVID-19 remains on isolation.

The two floors that were identified as contacts were 1 Center, and 8 Centre. The residents on 1 centre and 8 Centre have been placed on isolation with residents restricted to their rooms. Through contact tracing we have determined that residents on 4 Centre also require isolation and further testing may be required.

We continue diligently working with Public Health to complete contact tracing for anyone who maybe considered a contact. All 5 staff close contacts continue to be off work and in self isolation.

Visitation is still restricted. We have been advised by Public Health that due to this positive case in our facility, we are required to suspend the resident’s social drives into the community. Essential medical appointment will still be allowed as long as Public Health guidelines are followed.

Currently we have approximately 80% of staff 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. Staff continue to be able to book vaccination appointments through the Nova Scotia health care clinics.

Currently, there is no legislation that requires health care providers in any health care setting to be vaccinated.

Moving forward, all DCG’s regardless of vaccination status will be required to apply additional PPE when on the care floors.

NEW SCREENING KIOSKS

We now have new screening kiosks that have been placed at the Halifax Campus as well as Bedford Campus. There will be two kiosks located at our center doors at the Halifax site and one at the main entrance in Bedford. This will help minimize the congestion during high traffic times. Please note the process below for using these screening kiosk upon entering the facilities.

Please approach the kiosks – the exposure sites are listed near the kiosk for review.

How to use Kiosks for Screening

Look at left hand screen, approach until a temperature is read then follow prompts.
DO NOT TOUCH the message screen use pedals at your feet following each question.
Halifax site-If you receive a notification to see the Facility Supervisor, please let the screening staff know. Bedford site– if you receive notification to ”Do not Enter” please inform screener.
If you get the go-ahead, approach a screener, sanitize your hands and receive new mask from the screener.

Important Information

Employees must still use time clock to punch in for shift.
DCG’s must log into the System inside the door after passing the screening questions at kiosk.
Lawton’s Staff, Visitors without ID, Contractors must give information to desk when receiving their mask.

Dear Residents and Families,

In consultation with Public Health, the follow precautions are in place to enable safe DCG Program participation while we are responding to the current situation at Northwood Halifax.

Screening before entry is essential
Diligent hand washing
Medical Masking and Face Shields are required for all DCG with added PPE for unvaccinated DCGs. DCGs must be able to wear the PPE at all times and cannot remove at any time. This includes when in the residents rooms.
Maintain social distancing from staff and other residents.
All DCGs must remain within the residents room, please ask staff for assistance. If needed, you can use the nurse call system.
There are currently over 250 DCGs vaccinated and others are encouraged to access community clinics to ensure we are able to keep our community safe. There are 94% of residents vaccinated and we continue to offer vaccine to all staff vaccination.

Please find attached a helpful FAQ document as well as instruction on proper PPE use.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

FAQ April 29, 2021

PPE8.5X14

Dear Residents and Families,

As a follow-up to the earlier reported presumptive staff member case at our Halifax Campus, we have been informed by Public Health that this presumptive case is now confirmed as a positive COVID-19 case.

This staff member had contacts on two floors, 1 Center, and 8 Centre. All residents on these floors have been swabbed and have been placed on isolation precautions. We are diligently working with Public Health to complete contact tracing for anyone that may have had close contact with this case. Staff identified will be individually notified. It is also important to note that this staff member while working on these floors was wearing full PPE at all times. We have over 90% of our residents vaccinated and over 80% of our staff across LTC vaccinated.

We are taking full precautionary measures as directed by Public Health and will continue all of our robust infection prevention and control practices at this time, including a heightened focus on screening, hand hygiene, physical distancing, and mandatory masking and face shields in resident living areas. Our enhanced cleaning protocols continue.

We understand the impact of isolation on our residents and are very happy to say we have been supported by Public Health to resume our Designated Care Giver Program. At this time, DCGs must continue to visit one at a time. Because we have had a positive case all DCGs must wear a face shield in addition to their medical-grade mask while on the care floors. To participate in the program DCGs must be able to comply at all times with the mandated wearing of medical masks and face shields while in the facility. DCGs must also have had their COVID-19 vaccination. Over 75% of registered DCGs attended our internal DCG clinics. If a DCG has received their vaccination somewhere other than through Northwood, they will need to provide confirmation of vaccination.

We are happy to support residents and families stay connected by continuing the DCG program. Their mental health and their safety are our highest priority.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, April 27, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues we would like to ensure all of our clients, residents, staff, and families that we will continue to keep you all well informed. The safety of our clients, residents, and staff is extremely important to us.

We want to inform you at this time that we have received confirmation of one presumptive case of COVID-19 in a staff member of our Halifax Campus. This individual contracted COVID-19 in the community. The staff person is now in isolation.

In response to this development, we have notified Public Health, Nova Scotia Health, and the Department of Health and Wellness. We are following Public Health direction and moving forward with contact tracing and increased swabbing/testing of residents and staff.

We are taking full precautionary measures as directed by Public Health, and will continue all of our robust infection prevention and control practices at this time, including a heightened focus on hand hygiene, physical distancing, and wearing of personal protective equipment including universal masking and face shields. Our enhanced environmental cleaning continues. Visitation will remain closed until further notice. The Bedford Campus Designated Caregiver Program will continue. The Halifax Campus Designated Caregiver Program has been suspended at this time.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, April 22, 2021

Good Afternoon,

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.

3 – All volunteers are on hold 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 any Northwood facilities
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.
Please use elevator etiquette- check capacity that is required for each elevator.
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 NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, April 13, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Northwood’s Halifax LTC program is fortunate to have been approached to participate in a study led by Dr. Ken Rockwood Division of Geriatric Medicine to understand whether far-UVC lights can reduce airborne viruses (disinfect) and in turn reduce respiratory and other infections in nursing homes. The COVID-19 virus has shown the devastating affects infections have on the senior population especially those in communal living environments.

Please review the attached information on the study. We encourage you to contact the research team for more information on how you can be a part of this important study to help improve the Long Term Care living environment. Contact information is available on the attached documents below.

Thank you,

Dr. Barry Clarke – Medical Director

Josie Ryan – Executive Director Long Term Care

UVA Study Info April 6

UVC Study Info April 9

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, April 8, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Thank you for participating in Northwood’s COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign. We are excited to have been able to provide over 2200 vaccines at our Northwood sites.

We are awaiting approval for a last supply of vaccine to complete those Designated Caregivers currently on the wait list. We encourage everyone who has not taken advantage of our on site clinics to access their vaccine through the community distribution programs via Public Health or pharmacy clinics. We appreciate your willingness to be vaccinated to keep our community safe.

Employees will be able to access vaccinations through Nova Scotia Health by contacting Northwood’s Occupational Health Nurse. These health worker clinics will also be ending in the near future and staff will be expected to access the community clinics.

The vaccination phone line and e-mail will be closed as of Friday April 9, 2021.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, April 6, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Please find attached a Special Bulletin from the office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health related to the COVID-19 Vaccine Program.

Vaccine Update

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, March 31, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Please find attached a Special Bulletin from the office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health related to the COVID-19 Vaccine Program including information on the AstraZeneca vaccine.

MOH Bulletin

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, April 1, 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 Northwood’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 courtyard/outdoor spaces on Northwood’s properties both independently and supervised by staff as appropriate.
Creating spaces where residents can engage in social and physical activities on main floors where we can ensure space for social distancing.
Creating groups of people who can consistently interact (bubble) while limiting exposure to residents and others.
With warmer weather and longer daylight, we will be increasing the times residents can access the main area and outdoors.
Increasing activities and spaces for residents to access without staff or DCG present.

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 your RN Clinical Leader, Client Relations Coordinator, Nursing Manager, Social Worker, 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 FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, March 23, 2021

Dear Designated Care Givers,

We are excited to have so many of the Northwood 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 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 by floor to maintain internal bubbles for residents. This would provide access to the main street area and 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 FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, March 19, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

Today the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced changes to the Public Health directives.

Effective Monday, March 22 organized visits to Long Term Care facilities will resume.

The booking process for indoor family visits to the Halifax and Bedford Campuses has restarted. As in the past, there will be two visitors permitted at a time.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

BookingHalifax

BookingBedford

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MONDAY, March 1, 2021

Dear Residents and Families,

As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues throughout Nova Scotia we understand the public and the Northwood community including our tenants have 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 FROM NORTHWOOD – 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 FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, February 25, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Although the number of COVID cases remains low in Nova Scotia, we must all be vigilant to help keep all residents and staff healthy. As many may know, the list of exposure sites in the community has again started to rise. Please review the attached Community Exposure List.

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 FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, February 23, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Currently the number of COVID cases in Nova Scotia are low but we all need to stay vigilant. There is nothing more important to the Northwood community than ensuring the continued health and safety of our residents and staff. Our most important tool in the fight against COVID is the vaccine. As Northwood continues our vaccine clinics we would like to offer an update on our progress.

We are also very happy to announce that on February 22, 2021, we were advised that Home Support Workers now have access to the vaccine through the NSHA Vaccine Clinics. This is very encouraging news as we continue to keep our clients, residents, and staff safe.

COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE:

To date, 1802 people in the Northwood community have received both the first dose and second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Residents – current snap shot.

Halifax – 324 – 95%

Bedford – 148 – 97%

Staff– current snap shot.

Halifax – 392 – percentages not available until the 2^nd dose clinics are completed.

Bedford – 145 – percentages not available until the 2^nd dose clinics are completed.

Designated Care givers

Halifax – 129

Bedford – 114

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, February 11, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Fall River, Nova Scotia – Nova Scotia is adding hundreds of new long-term care beds and spending millions more on renovating or replacing seven long-term care homes. To accommodate more single rooms during the outbreak, Northwood was required to remove 100 beds from the Halifax campus. It has been announced that those 100 beds with an additional 44 new beds will be added to a new Northwood long-term care facility in the Fall River area.

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 thrilled with the announcement of a new Northwood long term care facility in the Fall River area. We have been working with a partner in the Fall River area for several years to bring a campus-style community together serving seniors to live as independently as possible. We are thrilled that a long term care facility will now be a part of that campus style community. The campus model has served Northwood for 50 years and we are thrilled to be able to provide this option for living in the Fall River area. This new facility will be designed to incorporate our learnings about infection control and technology to support individuals to have greater independence and control over their environment,” says President and CEO Janet Simm.

The year 2020 was the most challenging year Northwood has seen. As many Northwood staff, residents, and clients are healing, this announcement has helped bolster spirits. The Northwood community is very excited about what the future holds.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, January 27, 2021

Dear residents and families,

As the second wave of COVID-19 continues throughout Canada our small province continues to do well with only 11 active cases in the province as of January 27, 2021. It is however still very important for all of us to remain diligent and continue to follow Public Health directives to keep COVID out of our Long Term Care facilities.

Northwood’s COVID vaccine clinics have been very successful providing first dose vaccine to over 1150 people within the Northwood LTC community. Over 90% of residents have been vaccinated, with 55% percent of active and close to 40% of DCG at both locations who have chosen to be vaccinated.

Second dose vaccinations for residents, designated care givers, and staff will start on Feb 8 and continue for two weeks. Once we have additional vaccine supplies we will organize additional first dose clinics.

Vaccination is essential to ending the threat of this pandemic however the current infection prevention and control measure will continue to be required for months to come. Precautions such as screening, universal mandatory masking, social distancing, handwashing and environmental cleaning will continue as is. We will continue to adhere to all directives from the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

Northwood continues supporting resident and family engagement to support their mental wellbeing. Video calls, visits, and the Designated Caregiver program help us to do so.

We continuously reassess and work to offer more activities to residents based on the provincial COVID numbers and as restrictions are lifted. Designated Caregivers are able to take residents out of the facility for a drive but within the restriction of no stops or visits during the outing. Despite the provincial vaccine supply issues, Northwood continues with COVID vaccine clinics in Halifax and Bedford.

Residents

Halifax – 93% complete Bedford – 96% complete

Staff

Halifax – 56% complete Bedford – 67% complete

Designated Caregivers

Halifax – 40% complete Bedford – 40% complete

Northwood has completed 865 on-site since January 11.

There were 302 completed at the Nova Scotia Health clinics prior to this.

In total, 1167 of the NW LTC community. We are offering clinics in Halifax and Bedford over the next week where we will deliver 50 more vaccines.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, January 15, 2021

Dear residents and families,

It has been a busy and productive week and we are excited to share that yesterday we received our first doses of the Moderna vaccine at the Bedford campus!

Over the last two days we have vaccinated the majority of residents at the Halifax Campus and are thrilled to share that we will now begin the Bedford Campus resident vaccine clinics. The team will start vaccination today, Friday January 15, 2021.

The team has worked hard to prepare for this day to ensure residents and families have been informed and are ready to accept the vaccine. Along with screening, asymptomatic swabbing, wearing masks and physical distancing this is another step to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of COVID entering our building, triggering an outbreak.

We are excited to tell you we are able to offer staff and Designated Caregivers vaccinations on site. Clinics for staff and Designated Caregivers for the Bedford Campus will be held next week. More information will come. It is our plan to offer vaccination for Northwood employees and Designated Caregivers based on vaccine availability and according to the provincial phased approach.

This is such a milestone after all the sacrifice and diligence the Northwood community has undergone in the past year to combat COVID-19.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, January 14, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Nova Scotia’s COVID-19 immunization plan, directed by Public Health, includes a 3-phase approach.

Northwood is provided vaccine by Public Health and has been advised to vaccinate front-line healthcare workers who are closely involved in the COVID-19 response (more likely to be exposed to COVID-19), residents, staff, and Designated Caregivers of long-term care facilities.

Tenants who live in Northwood’s apartments and who meet Public Health’s criteria will be eligible fore the vaccine when the province rolls out the plan for the seniors living in the community who are 80 or older/seniors living in the community who are 75 to 79.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, January 13, 2021

Dear residents and families,

It has been a busy and productive week!

The Northwood vaccination campaign is well underway. As of Wednesday, January 13^th, over 225 residents have had their vaccine at the Halifax Campus. The Bedford Campus resident vaccine clinic will begin this week and will be completed next week.

We are excited to tell you we are able to offer staff and Designated Caregivers vaccinations on site. In working with Nova Scotia Health, 591 names were forwarded for vaccination since December 14, 2020.

The first of these clinics will be held tomorrow at the Halifax Campus and will be restricted as per Public Health direction to LTC staff and Designated Caregivers. Appointments have been pre-booked from the list of people who requested the vaccine.

Additional clinics for staff and Designated Caregivers for the Bedford Campus will be held early next week. More information will come.

It is our plan to offer vaccination for all Northwood employees and Designated Caregivers based on vaccine availability and according to the provincial phased approach.

This is such a milestone after all the sacrifice and diligence the Northwood community has undergone in the past year to combat COVID-19.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – Monday, January 11, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Last week it was announced that three of the largest Long Term Care facilities in Nova Scotia would receive the Moderna vaccine. Unlike the Pfizer vaccine, the Moderna vaccine can be transported directly to each Long Term Care facility.

The Department of Health and Wellness has allocated 3,700 Moderna vaccine doses for the residents, staff, and caregivers of Northwood and two other Long Term Care facilities in the province. These allocated doses will include the first and second shots required for each individual. Our Moderna vaccine clinics for residents will be starting today.

Northwood is extremely grateful to be receiving the Moderna vaccine. We look forward to continuing with phase one of the immunization process and hope to move into phase two in approximately April or May.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – 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 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 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.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, January 6, 2021

Dear residents and families,

The holidays are over and life is returning to our new normal. The new year is starting out with some positive news. Yesterday it was announced that three of the largest Long Term Care facilities in Nova Scotia will receive the Moderna vaccine. Unlike the Pfizer vaccine, the Moderna vaccine can be transported directly to each Long Term Care facility.

The Department of Health and Wellness has allocated 3,700 Moderna vaccine doses for the residents, staff, and caregivers of Northwood and two other Long Term Care facilities in the province. The process is now in place to start shipping the Moderna vaccine to Northwood while maintaining the appropriate temperature. These allocated doses will include the first and second shots required for each individual.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, January 5, 2021

Dear residents and families,

Please see the attached process for resident items to be dropped off at a Northwood 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/individuals who wish to drop off items for residents living at a Northwood facility.

Family Drop off Procedure

HOME SUPPORT DIRECTIVES – MONDAY, JANUARY 4, 2021

Dear Home Support clients and families,

The year 2020 has been extremely challenging for Long Term Care, Home Support, and the world. We would like to reach out to our Home Support clients who may have questions regarding various COVID-19 directives. Please review the documents attached below.

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 1 UPP QA Home Care

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 2 Home-and-community-Outbreak-Toolkit -for-HC-agencies

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 3 Masking HC Clients Handout

CCIR 107.0 Attachment 4 UPP For Home and Community-Cheat sheet

CCIR 107.0 UPP and HC Client Masking

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, December 17, 2020

Dear residents and families,

With the announcement yesterday 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. There have been over 200 participants in the DCG program.
It would be helpful if the additional DCG could be the one that was assigned prior to the last restrictions. If not, the new DCG will require training prior to participating in the program to ensure they are aware of the process and precautions that must be followed.
For Halifax Campus – Please phone 902-454-4408 for more information.
For Bedford Campus – Please phone 902-407-8520

Organized visiting will resume on Monday. We will balance visiting with planned events and with the residents ability to come to the main street. Residents so enjoy the ability to come to the main floors. 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.
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.

Happy Holidays!

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, December 17, 2020

Dear residents and families,

We continue to realize the importance of family and resident connection on well-being. Current visitation restrictions will remain in place until December 21.

In order to keep residents safe over the holidays, Public Health has advised residents may not leave the facility for family visits. We do understand that visiting with family over the holidays is very important. As of December 21, the visitation restriction within the facility will be loosened. Our team is reviewing the recent updates from Public Health and will share further information by the end of the week.

Residents enjoy their time away from their living area so that will be a priority consideration as we loosen visiting restrictions. We need to stay vigilant even over the holidays as COVID remains in the community. The most important goal is to keep all of us healthy and safe.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – WEDNESDAY, December 16, 2020

Dear Residents and Families,

We received some great news on Friday evening. Northwood’s Long Term Care Program has been included in the first round of provincial vaccines for COVID-19. The vaccination is voluntary however we are strongly encouraging staff to be vaccinated for the protection of residents and co-workers.

We will be working with the Department of Health and Wellness to organize the vaccination of those selected Northwood staff members. This process will take time and coordination with Northwood and DHW. We can’t offer confirmed dates for the first vaccinations but assure the public that the
process is underway.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, please refer to the attached FAQ.

COVID-19 FAQ Vaccine

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, December 10, 2020

Dear Residents and Families,

Northwood 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 on the northwood.care website.

Guidelines for LTC Facilities 2020_12_10

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – 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. Please call 902-454-4408 (option 1) for Halifax and 902-407-8520 for Bedford to provide the name of the one DCG.

Northwood 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.

Guidelines for LTC Facilities 2020_12_10

FAQ Document

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, 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. Northwood 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.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, November 24, 2020.

Dear Residents and Families

Northwood 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 Care Giver 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 Care Giver 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 Care Giver Program and other family connections including video calls. Be sure to watch the Northwood website for regular updates. You can find Video Call booking information along with other useful information by visiting the link below. We will be sending further information as well as updating the Northwood website within the next 48 hours.

https://northwood.care/services/long-term-care/information-for-families/

Thank you for your patience.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, November 20, 2020.

Dear residents and families,

Please find attached below a memo regarding Long Term Care guideline changes from the Department of Health and Wellness.

CCIR 91.0 Long Term Care Guideline Changes

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – 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.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MONDAY, November 16, 2020.

Dear residents and families,

This has been a very difficult year for us all. Northwood is working very hard to be proactive, making sure we have solid plans in place as we move forward in preparation for a potential second wave/outbreak. Every little detail is extremely important to ensure our residents are safe and will continue to have all that they need.

We recommend that residents or their caregiver arrange for the installation of any new phone lines or cable service as soon as possible. If there is a need to tighten restrictions in the near future we may not be able to respond to such requests in a timely manner during an outbreak.

Residents or their caregiver can call 902-454-3367 for Halifax or 902-407-8531 for Bedford to schedule phone and cable installation.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES

Clear communication is paramount during a global pandemic, particularly for those who are unable to see their loved ones due to Public Health restrictions. We received feedback from families regarding Northwood’s communication during the first wave of the pandemic, which included a focus group with families to discuss a realistic plan in the event of an outbreak at either of Northwood’s campuses during a second wave of the pandemic. Care of your loved one during an outbreak is our top priority. You may not have direct access to the care team who is caring for your loved one, as your loved one’s well-being is their priority. In the event of an outbreak in either Halifax or Bedford, the following is the communication that you can expect from Northwood:

PHONE COMMUNICATION – Phone calls will be made to the Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) only. Northwood would ask that the SDM inform other family members of any updates.

Informing the SDM (of any change in a resident’s condition).
A call to the SDM to inform them if a resident has had a positive test result.
A weekly call to provide a general update to the SDM. This may include a negative test result, status of the number of infections on the unit where your loved one lives, a resident room change, etc. Updates on residents receiving end of life care will be provided to the SDM daily or more often based on the resident’s condition and status. Visiting at end of life will be available.

PHONE VISITATION BOOKING – Booking information is located on the Northwood website under Info for Families.
The website will be updated with information on resident and family engagement opportunities such as :

Indoor and outdoor visits
Designated Caregiver visits
Resident visits to family homes
Video calls
Medical appointments

WEBSITE UPDATES

Locations of new infections
Number of new infections
Number of active cases
Number of recovered
Updates on restrictions
Frequently asked questions, FAQ Documents
Links to critical Public Health Documentation

WEEKLY EMAIL UPDATES

Mass email message to the Long Term Care email lists for Halifax and Bedford campuses.
Include updates on the number of cases, restrictions, and other general COVID information.

VIDEO MESSAGING

Weekly online press conference and or video messages. These messages will be posted on the COVID-19 Updates section of the website.

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MONDAY, November 16, 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 visits into the community. We have suspended outings into the community for family visits and trips until Thursday, 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 Northwood screening.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, November 11, 2020.

Dear residents and families,

Given the current situation in the community, we would like to err on the side of caution and postpone resident visits into the community until more is known. We will be suspending outings into the community for family visits and trips until Tuesday, November 17, 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 Northwood screening.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – 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.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, October 1, 2020.

Dear Residents and Families,

Northwood understands the importance of family connection to resident and family well-being. We’ve reviewed public health documents and we are in-line with the directives. We are pleased to provide the following information.

Halifax Booking and Visiting Information

Bedford Booking and Visiting Information

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – MONDAY, September 28, 2020.

Dear Residents and Families,

We would like to update residents and family 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 Northwood 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

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FAQs-Easing-Restrictions

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, September 25, 2020

Dear Residents and Families,

Northwood has carefully considered the government-commissioned review of the COVID-19 outbreak at our Halifax Campus and we support the report recommendations. It was important to us that we share some updates with you and let you know how we are preparing for a possible second wave of COVID-19.

This pandemic has been very difficult for our Northwood community. We continue to grieve the loss of our friends and family. Our wonderful staff continues to come to work every day, providing comfort and care to our residents, and for this, we say thank you.

Our number one priority is the safety, health, and overall well-being of our residents.

WHAT WE’VE DONE

We continue to learn from this experience, and there are many ways we are prepared ahead of a possible second wave of COVID-19:

• We have enough staff in place to care for our residents, and if we have a sudden staff shortage; we know who to call to bring in extra staff in a timely way.
• We are keeping the number of residents at our Halifax Campus at lower levels; this will help with staff and resident movement in our facility.
• We have a full team of housekeeping staff and outside cleaning help is on standby if we need it.
• We appreciated the feedback through focus groups with families and residents about our communication plan. We will keep you updated about any of our pandemic plans.
• While we’ve always had enough personal protective equipment (PPE) for our staff, we have been able to buy PPE carts to store PPE safely on the floors, and closer to residents.
• If we are faced with a possible second wave our medical and care teams will continue to work together to ensure we are providing the best care possible for our residents.

WHAT WE WILL DO

We know there is always more we can do, and we are doing everything we can to prepare for a possible second wave:

• We will keep our occupancy levels lower. As of September 24, our occupancy is at 367, may need to share the previous number so they understand the dramatic difference including 13 double rooms. We keep our resident numbers lower and keep some shared rooms for couples who want to live together or those who prefer to have a roommate.
• We have contacted experts to look at our ventilation systems. While our ventilation system meets all of the current standards, we want to be ready for any new guidelines.
• There will be changes coming to the number of resident smoking areas available and the number of smokers living on Campus. We will keep you updated with this information.
• Screening for COVID-19 symptoms continues for all programs and when entering Northwood. We appreciate how well our visitors are following public health directives for screening, physical distancing, masking, and hand hygiene. We’re also making testing of employee on-site available, so we can ensure our employees can return to work safely, and sooner.

As challenging as the past six months has been for the Northwood community, we are very grateful for the support we’ve received. These are just some of the ways we are keeping our residents, families, and our employees safe. It’s important that we continue to balance the quality of life and safety of residents. We want all residents and their families to know that we will not let our guard down. Our goal is to ensure residents can continue to enjoy the quality of life they expect and deserve.

Thank you for your continued support.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – TUESDAY, September 22, 2020

Dear residents and families,

We have received and look forward to reviewing the recommendations of the government-commissioned review of the COVID-19 outbreak at Northwood. We will take the opportunity to review the recommendations to make sure we’re doing everything we can to keep you safe.

I want to assure you that Northwood remains committed to providing the quality care you expect and deserve. Your safety and well-being is important to us and at the heart of our plans. We are always looking for ways to serve you better and thank you for your support.

We continue to follow the direction of public health and have taken steps to make sure we’re ready for a possible future wave of COVID-19. We know it hasn’t been easy. We’ve lost friends, family, and loved ones to this terrible disease. We have learned a lot from this pandemic, and we are applying these learnings to help keep you safe and well. We look forward to reaching a new normal- one where we have a balance between managing the risk associated with COVID-19 while living up to our LIVE MORE Philosophy!

We know family members and loved ones are important to your health and well-being. They are an essential part of your care team. We were pleased to recently increase the number of visits allowed and to reopen services like the hair salon and café. With the support of our Foundation, we have completed a solarium in Bedford and an Internet café in Halifax that we look forward to you using in the coming weeks. As we continue to follow the direction of public health, we want to thank you and your families for following the safety rules.

In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to do everything we can to protect your health and safety. We will take what we have learned to ensure Northwood remains a safe and welcoming place for all. We will continue to communicate with you in an open and timely way and provide regular updates on the Northwood website.

Thank you for your continued support and patience.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – THURSDAY, September 17, 2020

Please find attached an update on the Northwood Designated Caregiver Program that has been recently announced.

Designated Caregiver Program

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD – FRIDAY, September 11, 2020

Northwood CEO Janet Simm addressed the community on Friday, September 11 to provide an update on the situation at the Halifax facility.

EASE OF RESTRICTIONS UPDATE – FRIDAY, August 28, 2020

We are pleased to provide the updated guidelines for family/resident connections and visiting based on recent Department of Health and Wellness (DHW) directives. It is our goal to follow public health directives as they arise and/or change, and take each stakeholder’s needs into consideration while ensuring all restrictions are followed to maintain, first and foremost, a safe and comfortable visit.

Update August 28, 2020

FAQ August 28, 2020

CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2020

Please see below for the weekly update for Wednesday, August 26, 2020, which includes a summary of the current COVID-19 situation at Northwood.

Facility cases (total): 345 (no change)

Residents
Total cases: 246 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 193 (no change)
Deaths: 53 (no change)

Employees
Total cases: 99 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 99 (no change)

Additional information –

During the winter, youth interviewed residents of Shoreham Village (a long term care home) and other seniors in the community of Chester, NS. The interviews inspired a music video. It was supposed 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 26, 2020

Please see below for the weekly update for Wednesday, August 26, 2020, which includes a summary of the current COVID-19 situation at Northwood.

Facility cases (total): 345 (no change)

Residents
Total cases: 246 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 193 (no change)
Deaths: 53 (no change)

Employees
Total cases: 99 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 99 (no change)

Additional information –

CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – MONDAY, August 3, 2020

Please see below for the weekly update for Monday, August 3, 2020, which includes a summary of the current COVID-19 situation at Northwood. Updates are posted each Monday.

Facility cases (total): 345 (no change)

Residents
Total cases: 246 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 193 (no change)
Deaths: 53 (no change)

Employees
Total cases: 99 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 99 (no change)

Additional information –

We are very pleased to offer an update on the ease of some restrictions in regards to visits, resident’s movement within the facilities, drop-offs, resident programming, hair salon service, packages, smoking, and staff information. Below you will find documents outlining these changes specific to each facility.

Bedford-Update-August-3-2020
Halifax-Update-August-3-2020

CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – MONDAY JULY 27, 2020

Please see below for the weekly update for Monday, July 27, 2020, which includes a summary of the current COVID-19 situation at Northwood. Updates are posted each Monday.

Facility cases (total): 345 (no change)

Residents
Total cases: 246 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 193 (no change)
Deaths: 53 (no change)

Employees
Total cases: 99 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 99 (no change)

CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – FRIDAY, JULY 17, 2020

As many may know, the Department of Health and Wellness has announced new Long Term Care home guidelines for the opening of our hair salon, indoor visits, and common area access. Every Long Term Care home is different and will develop unique plans to offer all of these new directives.

Hair Salon

We are very happy to announce that the Northwood Hair Salon will be opening on July 22. We are working quickly to establish when the Hair Salon operating at the Northwood campuses will be available to take appointments. Please watch our website for Hair Salon updates.

Indoor Visits

We are excited that provincial leaders feel confident in public health to further lift restrictions in Long Term Care beginning next week. In anticipation of this announcement, we have been actively working on plans to support these changes.

We are close to finalizing our plans to support indoor visits and expect to be able to take bookings starting on July 27th. Indoor visits may be booked following the same process as outdoor visits – calling the designated number for each facility and asking to book an indoor visit.

The safety and well-being of residents is our primary concern and we will continue to follow the advice and direction of Public Health as we work together to loosen restrictions.

Halifax Booking: 902-943-0447

Bedford Booking: 902-407-8520

Common Area access

The last several months of social isolation and physical distancing has been difficult for residents and their families. We are taking steps to provide residents with opportunities to spend unescorted time off of their floor/house. We recognize the importance of this step, in addition to family visits and video calls, to support resident well-being while also ensuring that we are meeting the requirements set out by the Department of Health and Wellness for all Nova Scotia Long Term Care facilities.

Beginning July 20th – Residents at our Bedford and Halifax campuses will have a designated time when they are able to access common areas away from their floor/house. This will be closely monitored to ensure that everyone is able to meet physical distancing requirements.

A detailed plan has been developed for each campus which will evolve as we evaluate and as provincial restrictions and guidelines change. Residents will be supported to follow guidelines for accessing common spaces.

We are following the advice and direction from Public Health and the Medical Officer of Health and are aware that if we experience a second wave we may need to once again restrict access to common areas. Now is an opportunity for residents to reclaim some independence and freedom within our facilities while there is a lower risk.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please find the most recent documents from the Department of Health and Wellness.

CCIR 54.0 Attachment1 FAQ Visits, Gatherings, Salons, Bus Trips Download
CCIR 54.0 Attachment2 Guidelines for Visits, Hair Salons and Social Activities Download
CCIR 54.0 Changes to LTC Directive-COVID-19 Download

CURRENT WEEKLY UPDATE – MONDAY JULY 13, 2020

Please see below for the weekly update for Monday July 13, 2020, which includes a summary of the current COVID-19 situation at Northwood. Updates are posted each Monday.

Facility cases (total): 345 (no change)

Residents
Total cases: 246 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 193 (no change)
Deaths: 53 (no change)

Employees
Total cases: 99 (no change)
Active cases: 0 (no change)
Recoveries: 99 (no change)

Additional information –

Please note, as Northwood’s active caseload has hit zero, we have transitioned to a weekly reporting structure. Updates will be posted each Monday detailing the situation at Northwood, reporting on the same statistics. If there is a need to increase this reporting structure back to daily updates, Northwood will do so.

Northwood is now offering scheduled, family outdoor visits with our residents. All visits must be conducted safely and in accordance with the guidelines set out by Public Health. For more information, please see our visitation guidelines for Halifax and Bedford.

COMMUNITY UPDATE FROM NORTHWOOD

Northwood CEO Janet Simm addressed the community on Thursday June 18 to provide an update on the situation at the Halifax facility.

Weekly Updates – Archive
July 2020 Weekly Updates
June 2020 Weekly Updates

Daily Updates – Archive
June 2020 Daily Updates
May 2020 Daily Updates
April 2020 Daily Updates
March 2020 Daily Updates

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