Alzheimer societies amalgamate

Laura Hare

The name has changed, but services and programs are expected to expand as the need grows for the new Alzheimer Society of Hastings Prince Edward.

The amalgamation of the Alzheimer Society of Belleville Hastings with the Alzheimer Society of Prince Edward County came into effect April 1, 2015.

“Facing pressures of increasing demands for services, both societies looked for ways to reduce administrative costs in order to divert more funding to front line services,” said Laura Hare, executive director.

Following a feasibility study that included all five societies in the Southeast Local Health Integration Network (LHIN), integration was recommended for Lanark and Leeds Grenville into one society and the same for Hastings-Prince Edward while leaving Kingston on its own. The process has been under way since October 2014.

The new board, lead by Jon Leavens, who was president of the Alzheimer Society of Prince Edward County, is to meet April 23 to unfold leadership for the new combined society.

“This process has helped each society learn more about the other and paved the way to a smooth transition,” said Hare. “I feel confident that doors are now open to allocate more resources to programs and services. The combined society will be stronger in handling the increasing demands from an aging population.”

The new society will maintain staffed offices in Bancroft, Belleville and Picton with the main administrative tasks handled in Belleville.

Caregiver support group – Wellington
Every second Wednesday of the month – 2pm – 4pm
Wellington Library, 261 Main St, Wellington, ON (map)
Please call the office to register – 613-476-2085.
Facilitated by Education and Support Co-ordinator Barry Flanigan, MSW.

Caregiver Support Group – Picton
Every second Thursday of the month – 2pm
Please call the office to register – 613-476-2085.
Facilitated by Education and Support Co-ordinator Barry Flanigan, MSW.

There are many ways caregivers and family members can get the support – including advice, someone to listen, or general information.

• The Alzheimer Society Message Board is a great place for caregivers to share common experiences and advice. It is free to register.
• A support group can give you a place to talk with other caregivers who understand the disease and know just what you’re going through.
• A counsellor or trained professional can help you talk through your feelings and concerns in a more intimate setting.

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www.alzheimer.ca/hpe
Alzheimer Society of Hastings Prince Edward
90 King Street,
Corner of King & Paul
Picton, ON K0K 2T0
Tel: (613 )476-2085
Fax: (613) 476-1537
E-mail: linda.steacy@alzheimerhpe.ca