Ep. 309: Protecting seniors from COVID-19’s second wave

Guest: Mike Klassen, BC Care Providers Association

As our short 2020 summer is rapidly coming to an end, there is heightened concern that a second, and possibly larger wave of the coronavirus is looming. As with COVID-19 Part 1, those most at risk are seniors.

Many of the lessons learned from the initial outbreak form a 17-point draft recommendation that will help to guide institutions, seniors care facilities and health care providers. “When it comes to keeping a step ahead of COVID-19, there are no simple solutions other than to analyze our experience so far and put the best preventative measures into practice as soon as possible,” says Mike Klassen, acting CEO of the BC Care Providers Association and EngAge BC.

The care equation is complex. Different facilities have different needs, layouts, staff and volunteers. Families want access to their loved ones. The number and mix of people in and out of care facilities is hard to monitor, manage and control due to the myriad elements in motion – any one of which could introduce the virus to a facility.

We invited Mike Klassen of the BC Care Providers Association and EngAge BC to join us for a Conversation That Matters about preparing for COVID-19, Part 2.