Check-In with our CEO

Coming of Age - Seniors Care  – June 2010

During the month of June, we recognize and celebrate the contributions made by seniors every day in communities across the province.  Ontario’s population aged 65 and over is projected to more than double from 1.8 million, or 13.7 per cent of the population in 2009 to 4.1 million, or 23.2 per cent, in 2036. The growth in seniors’ share of the population will accelerate after 2011 as baby boomers begin to turn age 65.

In April 2008, the WWLHIN kicked-off its Aging at Home strategy, which combines traditional health services — things like home care and supportive housing — with new, locally-driven, innovative approaches to caring for seniors.  The Aging at Home strategy aims to support seniors in their desire to live independently, for as long as possible, in a home of their choice. .

The Ontario government is investing $1.1 billion over four years in the Aging at Home Strategy.  Locally, we will invest $37 million through this initiative to support our senior residents.  In the first year (2008 - 2009), the WWLHIN invested $4.8 million in 20 initiatives and $11.9 million for 8 initiatives in year two (2009 - 2010). 

Our programs focus on providing support for seniors who are frail or have complex health concerns, those who need supportive housing and for seniors’ health and wellness programs.

Through these initiatives, we have witnessed numerous success stories and how these programs are benefitting seniors and their families.  I want to share just a few of these initiatives with you.  

Geriatric Emergency Management (GEM) nurses are located in each of our hospital Emergency Departments to assist older adults.  GEM nurses are specially trained and have a keen interest in assisting seniors.  Most have a Master’s degree in nursing or related geriatric health education and experience.  They are well qualified to address the needs of elderly patients. 

Our nine Intensive Geriatric Services Workers (IGSWs), located across the WWLHIN, provide support to frail seniors requiring access to community health services.  They are there to help older residents navigate the system to access the care that will support them staying in their homes. 

The Seniors Centre for Excellence program provides seniors with a central point of access to transportation, preventive care, friendly visits, exercise programs, social and recreation programs of interest, and one on one support programs and services in the Township of Mapleton, Town of Minto and the Township of Wellington North. 

I invite you to learn more about our Aging at Home initiatives and the organizations that are providing the programs and services by visiting our Current Projects page

Read Sandra's Bio and Past Messages

April 2010 

February/March 2010 

CEO Messages 2009

Municipal Council Presentations Winter/Spring 2010

Annually, WWLHIN Board Chair Kathy Durst and CEO Sandra Hanmer present at Municipal Council meetings to update Council Members on local health care activities. Together, they will present to all 20 Municipal Governments located within the WWLHIN area.  To view their presentation, click on the image to the right.  Listed below are the dates, times and locations for all presentations.