LESA: Lifestyle Enrichment for Senior Adults
The LESA Team works with older adults over the age of 55 who experience problems associated with alcohol, medications, other drugs, and gambling. Older adults living independently in Ottawa-Carleton can access these confidential and specialized addictions treatment programs free of charge.
Our client-centred programs, aim to improve physical, psychological, spiritual, and environmental health. The unique approach incorporates knowledge about the normal aging process, drug and behaviour dependency, and holistic health. All our programs and services are offered in both English and French.
Our Approach
Ever
yone is different and so should their health recovery process. Clients who come to the programs have varying problems, strengths, and levels of motivation. That’s why it’s important that individual needs and behaviours guide clients’ recovery process and lifestyle changes.
The LESA Team values client choice and encourages individuals to play an active role in the treatment. While clients may agree that substances or gambling may be creating problems in their lives, they don’t need to focus exclusively on these issues. Likewise, abstinence* is not required to be part of the LESA program.
Our effective approach focuses on engaging people into our program regardless of where they are in the change process. For those who feel it impossible to stop right away, we offer support to prevent further deterioration of their health and situation.
Services and Programming
Individual Counselling
Our counselors work with clients one-on-one to engage and support them in a counselling process that is designed to:
- identify, clarify, and choose areas for personal change
- recognize and solve problems associated with their substance use or gambling
- consider options for change
- develop a tailored plan to support a healthier lifestyle
Sessions are delivered at our various Ottawa-area locations and/or in clients’ home. Clients may select the location they are most comfortable with when booking their appointment. Counsellors are mindful to adapt their approach to best meet clients’ needs, abilities, and beliefs.
Group Programming
Individual counseling is complemented by psycho-educational support groups and a recreation therapy program. Our group sessions take place at the Centretown Community Health Centre in downtown Ottawa. Although clients are encouraged to attend groups, it’s an optional component of their program.
Recreation Programming
Recreation activities include social events or outings to interesting places in the community. This may also include physical activities to support active living. Participation is optional, however counsellors strongly encourage attendance, particularly with those who are isolated.
Joining the LESA Program
If you or a loved are interested in joining the program or learning more about what we have to offer, give us a call: (613) 233-5430
Workshops and Training
Recognize the problems related with alcohol, drugs, or gambling
The Team offers a variety of presentations and workshops specifically designed for professionals who are regularly in contact with older adults. Participants will learn to recognize signs or problems related with alcohol, drugs, or gambling and how to effectively intervene with older adults
Professionals seeking advice related to older adults’ alcohol use, drug use, or gambling are invited to contact the LESA Team. We’ll gladly answer your questions and provide helpful advice. We’re always keen to discuss how to broach this difficult topic with clients and recommend ways to engage them in an appropriate treatment program.
For more information or to organize a session, contact the LESA Team at (613) 233-5430
*Note: Abstinence is not required to be part of the LESA program. However, clients are required to avoid inappropriate use of alcohol, drugs, or medication 12-24 hours before attending a LESA activity or receiving a home visit from a counsellor. Gambling is prohibited while attending LESA activities.