Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) across Ontario have invested $40 million to enhance services for seniors who are displaying behaviours that are associated with complex and challenging mental health, dementia or other neurological conditions. The new investments are for local initiatives that improve care by hiring and training new staff – nurses, personal support workers and other health care providers with the specialized skills needed to provide appropriate care for seniors.
The investments are part of the provincial Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) project, a collaboration between Local Health Integration Networks, Alzheimer Society of Ontario, Health Quality Ontario, and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. BSO focuses on providing quality care for older people with challenging mental health conditions, in an environment that is focused on safety, high quality, evidence-based care and practice. One of the goals of the BSO project is ensuring that staff working in health care settings – such as long-term care homes, community services and hospitals – are provided with support in caring for seniors with complex mental health needs.
Beginning November 1, 2011, four LHINs – Central East, Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant, North Simcoe Muskoka and South East – will begin developing and implementing their local plans. The other ten LHINs will start in February 2012.
For more information, go to www.torontocentrallhin.on.ca.