The year 2020 will take up a little more space than other years in the history of the world records. COVID-19 literally brought the world to a standstill, with many people still reeling from shock. The impact of this pandemic will still be felt for years to come.
If I have to find one thing that stood out to me this year, it would be immense pride in our GERATEC teams. From the start, our employees did not hesitate to go the extra mile. Some lived on site without seeing family members for more than three months. Others worked with skeleton staff whilst still producing the best quality meals and service every single day. We saw the meaning of authentic relationships – our teams stood in, where families could not visit. Walking the extra mile our employees made this time bearable and truly created a home environment for the residents.
Aged care globally came into the spotlight in 2020 with older people being extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. What we saw in this bright light was not always easy, nor was the ageist fuelling of the media and some politicians when questioning the value of lives of older citizens. Whilst many residents admit to fears and loneliness, it was remarkable to see the resilience and stoic determination of so many of our residents. For many it was a time of growth, of introspection and contemplation, of turning inward and being quiet.
This would not have been possible if not for the champions who worked tirelessly to create a life worth living for residents. I salute you. There is no way in which we can thank or adequately acknowledge the work that you have done. So many forsake their own families to be with residents. You are all world makers – making this world a better place for older and vulnerable people is a divine calling, to which you answered without hesitation.
This gives me hope for the future. May 2021 be the year in which we keep the focus on care in the truest sense of the word.