FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Aging at Home Strategy Good News for Seniors

TORONTO (August 29, 2007) – The government’s announcement of $702 million for an Aging at Home Strategy that will expand community-based services is great news for Ontario’s seniors and their families.

“Community agencies are at the grassroots of healthcare, providing very important services and supports such as supportive housing, meals, transportation, shopping and adult day programs, all of which help to keep people where they want to be – in their own homes for as long as possible,” said Donna Rubin, CEO of the Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes and Services for Seniors.

The Aging at Home Strategy will roll out over three years starting April 1, 2008, and will be led by the Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs). A portion of the funding is earmarked for innovative approaches to service delivery that address the needs of culturally diverse populations, marginalized and at risk seniors and that build capacity for members of the community to help each other.

“This very significant investment is a huge boost for a sector that is so passionate, hardworking and committed to helping seniors live healthy, independent lives. It is truly exciting to consider the innovative thinking and creative solutions that will come out of this initiative,” added Rubin.

OANHSS has long recognized the value of an adequately funded, integrated continuum of care that provides seniors with the right service, in the right place, at the right time. With this investment, agencies will have the capacity to enhance and expand the range of services available that allow seniors to live at home.

“In the end, all of this will mean more choices for seniors and their families, which is what is most important,” said Rubin.

OANHSS members offer a diverse and comprehensive network of not-for-profit care and support services across the province. The Association looks forward to working with the Ministry and the LHINs on the implementation of this important strategy.

OANHSS is the provincial association representing not-for-profit providers of long term care, services and housing for seniors. Members include municipal and charitable long term care homes, non-profit nursing homes, seniors’ housing projects and community service agencies. Member organizations operate over 27,000 long term care beds and over 5,000 seniors’ housing units across the province.

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For further information, contact:

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Ontario Association of Non-Profit Homes & Services for Seniors
7050 Weston Road, Suite 700, Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 8G7
(P) 905-851-8821
(F) 905-851-0744

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OANHSS members include not-for-profit providers of long term care, services and housing for seniors in Ontario.
Members include municipal and charitable long term care homes, non-profit nursing homes,
seniors' housing projects and community service agencies.