Category: Safety

A Message to All Staff from the President and CEO

Since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global pandemic our world has changed dramatically. These are unprecedented times and we are being inundated with information. I hope that this update will provide you with useful information about what has been happening at Bethany.

As the COVID-19 pandemic began to sweep the world, Bethany mobilized its pandemic response plan under the leadership of our Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Nancy Hughes. I want to express my gratitude to Nancy and all the members of the pandemic response team. As we move forward, this team will continue to drive the operational decisions we make to protect our residents, tenants…and you.

I know this is a difficult time, unlike anything any of us have ever experienced. As an essential healthcare organization on the frontlines of a public health emergency, I know that it must be hard to come to work every day with so much uncertainty around us. I’m aware that many of you have things happening in your own lives outside of Bethany that may have turned your world upside down, with school closures, job losses or other significant impacts on your family life.

As many of you know, I have been on self-isolation due to out of country travel and I will be returning to the office on Friday morning. During this time I have been working from home (thanks to our amazing IT team who have ensured that I have the technology supports I needed). It has been very difficult for me to remain at home while so many of you have been working long hours to ensure the safety of the people of Bethany. For those of you on self-isolation, I fully understand the strain of being at home, away from family and friends. As humans we crave interaction with others and when this is taken away it can be very hard emotionally and physically. While I have used technology to remain connected and have made sure to get outside every day for a walk, it has not been easy.

Perhaps the most difficult experience was missing the birth of my first grandchild who entered the world yesterday. Not being able to be there to meet him has by far been the most difficult point in my self-isolation. However, it is my responsibility to my family, the general public and Bethany to remain on self-isolation as instructed by the Chief Medical Officer of Health for the greater good.

Under Nancy and the operational team’s leadership, we are committed not only to your safety as you come to your vitally important jobs every day, but also to supporting your emotional wellbeing in these trying times. You are receiving a COVID-19 News Bulletin every day to inform what is happening withthe pandemic response at the national, provincial and operational levels. But I also want to hear from you about how you are doing, so that we can find the best ways to support you in the weeks ahead.

I have established an email address, askjennifer@bethanyseniors.com that will be dedicated for all employees who want to share their challenges or experiences during this time. My commitment to each of you is I will check this account daily and respond as quickly as possible.

I will be sending out a weekly video update to share what I am hearing from you and to ensure you have all the facts and supports you need as work safely to protect and care for our residents, tenants and each other in the days and weeks ahead.

The first video will be this Friday where I will be addressing the organization to provide an update to all staff related to the pandemic.

I’m so very proud of each and every one of you. We will get through this together. Thank you for all that you are doing.

Jennifer McCue, President and Chief Executive Officer

As the situation around the globe remains uncertain, it’s normal to feel anxious when faced with a public health crisis, particularly one that has intense media coverage and has disrupted the routines in which we crave and the social and wellness activities that we enjoy.

Low levels of anxiety is normal as it encourages us to be prepared however anything more that that can be detrimental to your mental and physical health. Here are a few tips to help manage the anxiety you might be feeling.

• Educate yourself. Learn what the virus is, the signs and symptoms and how to protect yourself and others through appropriate hand hygiene and social distancing.
• Keep Perspective. Stay informed, however do not spend too much time on media coverage. Instead, spendtime on other important and positive things in your life.
• Take precautions. Once you’ve determined what the recommended precautions are, incorporate those into your regular routine. Right now, the recommendations are:
  • wash your hands regularly with soap and water
  • stay home if you are sick
  • avoid those who are presenting with cold or flu-like symptoms
  • maintain regular health routines like sleeping enough, eating healthy and exercising

• Stay connected. Having a support network to talk to when you’re feeling anxious can help you stay grounded and keep the perspective you need. Practice social distancing!
• Use your coping skills. Engage in activities that help you manage your anxiety levels, for example practice mindfulness meditations or go for a walk.
• Seek extra help. If you’re still struggling with your anxiety or experiencing panic that is affecting your ability to maintain your regular activities, consider seeking additional support.

Remember, as for world outbreaks, the COVID-19 pandemic is rare. If you are having trouble coping or have questions, please reach out and talk to your supervisor.

For more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeDownload the LifeWorksapp
Feel supported, connected and rewarded wherever you are!The app acts like your digital wallet card. You can call a LifeWorksEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) advisor with just one tap –toll-free, 24/7 –for expert advice, resources and referrals.LifeWorks supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources such as:

• LifeWorks Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Link:
Bethanycaresociety.lifeworks.com
username: bcs
Password: eap
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: LifeWorks WorkAngel

 

Other helpful links:

Alberta Health Services COVID19

Public Health Agency of Canada

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update March 9, 2020

What is it?

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an infectious respiratory illness which can cause similar symptoms to the flu. Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others, especially those with pre-existing conditions.

How significant is this in Canada?

There is 1 confirmed case and 3 presumptive cases in Alberta. There are 67 cases across Canada. The risk to Albertans is still low.

What action is Bethany taking?

Bethany is monitoring the situation through updates from the Government of Alberta and Alberta Health Services (AHS), and we have updated our Pandemic Plans and Outbreak Management Policies in order to respond effectively in the unlikely event the virus is detected at one or more of our communities.

How is the virus spread?

• The virus is spread through respiratory droplets when coughing or sneezing
• Close, prolonged contact, such as touching or shaking hands
• Touching something with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing hands

What are the symptoms of Coronavirus?

Coronavirus symptoms can be similar to a cold or case of the flu. Symptoms are usually mild to moderate (but can be more severe in some people) and may include:

• Fever
• Runny nose
• Headache
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath

What can I do to protect myself?

• Wash your hands with soap thoroughly and often
• Carry a small bottle of alcohol based hand sanitizer and use frequently – especially when out in public
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and face with unwashed hands

If I think I have been exposed what should I do?

If you have cold-like symptoms, you should do the following:

• Call your medical provider or Health Link at 811
• Stay home – avoid close contact with others
• Practice hand hygiene (wash your hands often and thoroughly)
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands

Advice for Travelers

The risk to Canadian travelers abroad is generally low but will vary depending on the destination. Please consult the destination page on travel.gc.ca for the latest travel advice. If you have any questions related to your attendance at work please contact your direct manager.

Where can I find more information?

You can find more information by calling Health link at 811.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please contact:
Ilona Fibich, Quality Practice Lead – Infection Prevention and Control
403.210.4697
Ilona.Fibich@bethanyseniors.com

March is Nutrition Month—a great time to focus on making healthy food choices that contribute to your overall health and well-being.

One easy concept to follow is what some experts refer to as the “80/20 rule.” If 80 percent of what you eat is healthy—with a nutritious mix of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, then you can eat what you crave for the other 20 percent. Here are some additional tips.

Try to fit in two to three nutritious snacks throughout the day in addition to well-balanced main meals. This will give you energy throughout the day, even during a mid-shift slump.

Drink water throughout the day. Avoid soda and sports drinks, which are often high in sugar. Limit caffeinated beverages. Sugar and caffeine may make you feel great for a little while, but when they wear off, you may feel even worse than before consuming them.

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables and include some fish into your diet. Try to build fruits and vegetables into your diet every day. Snack on apples, oranges, berries, dried fruit, carrot sticks, and other fruits and vegetables.

Keep an eye on portion size. Research has found large portions cause people to keep eating after they’re full. Using a smaller plate for meals will help to curb your food intake.

If junk food is your downfall, don’t buy it. Shop with a list to avoid impulsive buys. The healthiest foods are usually around the outer perimeter of the grocery store, so stay away from the aisles where the processed foods tend to be.

Track your intake. When you keep a food diary (whether on paper or through an app), you will think twice about eating and snacking. Make yourself accountable for all that you eat.

For more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Lesley.Mackinnon@BethanySeniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeFood brings people together in community. Start a Bethany Healthy Eating Challenge this month with your co-workers to foster community amongst your team.

There is a different theme each week that you can choose from to help you build healthy habits. Below is a theme for each week of March.

WEEK ONE
Paint your plate with vegetables

WEEK TWO
Fill up on fibre

WEEK THREE
Re-think your drink

WEEK FOUR
Hold the saltLifeWorks supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources such as:

• LifeWorks Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Link:
Bethanycaresociety.lifeworks.com
username: bcs
Password: eap
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: LifeWorks WorkAngel

 

Other helpful links:

Alberta Health Services

Continuing Care Safety Association

On February 26, 2020, organizations around the world will be celebrating Pink Shirt Day.

At Bethany, our key values focus on being caring, showing respect, acting responsibly and embracing diversity. Pink Shirt Day is a great reminder about our organizational values and how we act on them.

Make the focus of Pink Shirt Day about kindness. Small acts of kindness not only benefit the receiver, but also the giver and the whole organization, thereby creating a positive workplace culture.

You can start practicing kindness and encourage connection with others at work by carrying out random acts of kindness during your day.

• Invite a co-worker you don’t normally socialize with to sit with you at lunch
• Learn something new about someone you work with
• Say “thank you” in person
• Admit when you’re in the wrong (it helps other people feel better about their mistakes!)
• Hold the door open for the person behind you
• Give a glowing recommendation

Kindness should be something we practice every day. If we perform one act of kindness every day, our workforce will be a healthier place for us and those we serve and care for.

Don’t forget to practice self kindness and recharge your batteries. Exercise and eat a healthy diet. Find ways to relax, such as meditation, yoga, listening to music or practicing deep-breathing exercises. Do these regularly!

So on February 26th what will you do to practice kindness? Will you do something for someone in your life, someone you care for, or yourself? Let’s show our support by wearing pink shirts and participating in the Pink Shirt Day social media contest at Bethany. Click here for full Contest Details.

And always remember, if you or someone you know needs assistance, check out our Employee Assistance Program, LifeWorks.

For more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety & Disability Management
Lesley.Mackinnon@Bethanyseniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeLifeWorks supports employee health and well-being.

Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources such as:

• LifeWorks Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Link:
Bethanycaresociety.lifeworks.com
username: bcs
Password: eap
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: LifeWorks WorkAngel

Code White – Violence /Aggression

Bethany Care Society is committed to ensuring the protection of the physical and psychological health and safety of all Bethany employees.

Each month in 2020, we will be reviewing a particular code as part of our emergency preparedness procedures and emergency response training. We will start off the year with a review of Code White – Violence/Aggression in the Workplace.

The emergency response Code White is the designated phrase we use to alert staff if there is an incident of violence or aggression. The goal of alerting others is to address the potential escalation of behaviours in a safe and appropriate manner, and to remove persons who may be at risk from the immediate situation.

Beginning the week of January 3rd, all employees will have received notification to complete a Policy Tech reading assignment and quiz for both Code White – Violence/Aggression and the Psychological Health & Safety in the Workplace policy. In addition, employees will be asked to review and discuss with your teams what you would do in the scenario provided. These discussions will be reviewed the following month at each of the February OHS Committee meetings.

The purpose is to ensure Bethany employees:

• Review and recognize the definitions of workplace harassment, bullying and violence and when it occurs
• Are familiar with the procedures to follow when you witness or observe a situation of violence or aggression in the workplace
• Know how to summon help should your or our residents safety be at risk

It is essential that you are familiar with the procedures used with respect to Code White to ensure you can Recognize, Respond and Report incidents witnessed in the workplace.

For more information, please contact:

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety & Disability Management
Lesley.Mackinnon@Bethanyseniors.com

Or

Site OHS Committee Chair or RepresentativeADDITIONAL LINKS & RESOURCES

• Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace policy
• Reporting and Investigating Incidents and Injuries policy
• Hazardous Condition and Employee Injury Report form
• Code White – Algorithm
• Code White – Policy

Regular snowfalls in southern Alberta has brought to light the importance of being prepared when venturing out during severe weather. It’s important that each of us make sure that when we travel that we consider a few things prior to our departure.

Below are a few questions to consider in anticipation of travelling prior to and during severe weather events:

1. Have you checked the road reports?
2. Are you comfortable driving in these conditions?
3. Is your travel necessary?
4. Are you able to delay travelling?
5. Are there alternatives to you being somewhere in person?
6. If your travel is necessary, are there alternatives to driving?
7. If driving, is your vehicle appropriate for travel?
8. Has your vehicle been winterized?
9. Is your vehicle equipped with proper tires for potential conditions?
10. Are you prepared should you get stranded or stuck?
11. Have you established a Check In system?

These questions can help you decide on your travel options. When you venture out make sure you are prepared. Ensure you have topped up your gas and always drive for the road conditions.
When you are travelling, make sure you check in with someone and keep them in the loop as to your whereabouts.
Your safety is the utmost importance to getting to your destination safely!Equipping your vehicle with an emergency road kit is recommended as well as making sure your vehicle is winterized. Below is a list of things you should keep in your vehicle:

• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Blanket
• Road map and compass
• Extra clothes and footwear
• Paper towels or rags
• Sand, road salt or non-clumpy kitty litter
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Candle in a deep tin
• Waterproof matches
• Shovel
• Booster cables
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• Water and snack food

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety
Human Resources
lesley.mackinnon@bethanyseniors.com

 

 

 

If financial pressures or uncertainty are affecting your work or life, you’re far from alone. Fortunately, you can boost your financial well-being using the tips on the left and the many resources available through LifeWorks.

Resources:

• Life Works Web Resources
• Money Mentors
• Financial Assessment Tool

LifeWorks Link: Bethanycaresociety.lifeworks.com
username: bcs
Password: eap
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: LifeWorks WorkAngel

Financial well-being or “financial wellness” is as important as physical and mental wellness and it’s about more than having money in the bank. Financial well-being means feeling in control of your finances, being able to handle a financial setback, and being on track to achieve your financial and life goals. It means having the freedom to make choices that reflect your values and desires.

Budgeting, saving, and keeping debt under control are all components of financial well-being. If financial pressures or uncertainty are affecting your work or life, you’re far from alone.

Good financial health is like good physical health. It takes time, work, and discipline. It’s something you must work at regularly by taking a variety of steps all throughout life. Keep an eye on your spending habits, save for emergencies and the future (including having a plan for retirement), and change any habits that aren’t in sync with your goals.

Here are some tips:

Draw up a personal or household budget
Know how much money you have coming in, how much you can spend on necessities and luxuries, and how much you need to save to meet your long and short-term goals. If you share finances with someone else, talk about these issues together and try to reach an agreement on your priorities for spending and saving.

Make saving automatic
Set up automatic payday transfers into a savings account, tax-free savings account (TFSA), Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP), or other savings vehicle that suits your specific goals.
Apps like Mint (www.mint.com), Buxfer (www.buxfer.com), Digit (www.digit.com), and Simple (www.simple.com) can help automate saving and keep you on budget. Try also to set up automatic contributions of some of your pay into a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), an employer-sponsored pension plan, or other retirement or investment account.

Build up an emergency fund
Make it a top priority to create an emergency fund you could draw on easily if you or someone in your family has a medical crisis or an unexpected loss of income. Add up your monthly expenses. Then multiply by three to six months. That’s how much money you should have set aside in your emergency fund.

Plan for the future
Go over your budget and financial goals at least once a year. Plan for short-term expenses you will have in the next year, such as the cost of a vacation or home repairs. Also, review whether you’re on track to meet long-term goals such as buying a home, paying for a child’s education, or saving for retirement.

Develop a plan for changing any habits that aren’t helping you meet your financial goals
Talk with a professional. If concerns about money are causing you to feel stressed, remember that help is available. Contact your employee assistance program (EAP) for resources and support on coping with everything from money worries to achieving financial goals. EAP services are confidential. You may also contact a financial advisor or financial planner.

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety & Disability Management

 

 

 

If financial pressures or uncertainty are affecting your work or life, you’re far from alone. Fortunately, you can boost your financial well-being using the tips on the left and the many resources available through LifeWorks.

Resources:

• Life Works Web Resources
• Money Mentors
• Financial Assessment Tool

LifeWorks Link: Bethanycaresociety.lifeworks.com
username: bcs
Password: eap
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: LifeWorks WorkAngel

As mentioned in September’s bulletin, creating a healthy lifestyle begins with you. Let’s continue taking part in activities that promote a healthy mind, body and corporate culture.

Tip # 3 – Get a good night’s sleep

When you’re well-rested, your life is easier. You think more clearly, feel and look better, and have more stamina and energy. During times of stress, even people who usually sleep well have trouble getting enough sleep. A lack of sleep even for a few days, can leave you feeling irritable, frustrated, and forgetful. It can also raise your risk for some illnesses.

Establish a bedtime routine that is easy to follow, such as listening to soft music, drinking a cup of herbal tea, or taking a bath and then turning out the lights at the same time every night.

Some sleep problems can be related to depression, anxiety, or chronic pain, all of which can be treated with professional help.

• Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol after five o’clock
• Keep your phone away from your bed
• Try to exercise during the day
• Aim to get the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep

If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, try not to lie in bed worrying that you can’t fall asleep. Get up and do something relaxing instead.

• Read something light or listen to music in another room until you feel sleepy
• Do deep-breathing or other relaxation exercises
• Drink a cup of hot milk – research shows that the amino acids in milk may help you get to sleep

If your sleep problems persist, you may want to talk with your health care provider. Some sleep problems can be related to depression, anxiety, or chronic pain, all of which can be treated with professional help.

Tip #4 – Reduce stress

Stress is a normal part of life for most people. But too much of it can affect your health, the way you feel, and your ability to perform well at work and at home. That’s why it’s important to learn ways to deal with stress.

In some cases, the best way to deal with stress is to go straight to its source. If you’ve been worrying about tackling your to-do list, you can take a minute to prioritize it. If you’re anxious about an issue at work, speak with your manager.

The first step in managing stress is becoming aware of how you react to it. Once you learn how stress affects you, you can start treating it. Here are some common symptoms of stress:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Anger or irritability, particularly with respect to some of life’s little annoyances
• Headaches, neck or back pain

There are many different techniques for dealing with stress. You may need to try a range of approaches before you find one that works for you.

Lesley MacKinnon
Manager, Safety & Disability Management

 

 

 

To feel more supported and guided, connect with your EAP provider, LifeWorks.

LifeWorks supports employee health and well-being. Bethany employees have access to a wide range of resources such as:

• LifeWorks Blog
• Webinars and Events
• 24/7 Specialist Counselling

Link: Bethanycaresociety.lifeworks.com
username: bcs
Password: eap
Phone: 1-877-207-8833
Phone App: LifeWorks WorkAngel