Specialized Services for Older Adults

Program Description:

A range of specialized services are provided to older adults (55+) which includes, assessment and referral, individual and family counselling, outreach services, Brief Intensive residential treatment, withdrawal management, problem gambling counselling and a continuing care support group. Education and early intervention services are also provided to older adults living in the community. Professional education and training is provided upon request.

Assessment Services:

A specialized assessment package is utilized to determine needs of the 55+ client, formulating a treatment plan and facilitating referrals as appropriate. This service is offered by both the Sr. Margaret Smith Centre and Family Services Thunder Bay in office or in an outreach capacity in the client’s home or other community setting.

Individual and Family Counselling:

Counselling sessions are available for clients and/or family members to deal with specific issues related to addictions. These are offered both in office or in an outreach capacity.

Withdrawal Management Services:

Non-medical withdrawal management services are provided by Balmoral Centre for clients 55+, who need a safe, supervised environment to safely withdrawal from alcohol or other substances. Special accommodations are available which address the physical or cognitive needs of older adult clients.

Brief Intensive Program:

The Sister Margaret Smith Centre provides a 10 day brief intensive substance abuse treatment program utilizing a holistic approach to recovery which focuses on changing behaviour through examining beliefs and values. The program includes education sessions, life skills maintenance, self-help introduction, stress and medication management, leisure and nutrition education and relapse prevention. The multi-disciplinary team consists of addiction counsellors, recreationist, problem gambling counsellor, physician, stress management specialist and spiritual advisor. Self-help meetings and a Healing Circle are offered on-site.

Continuing Care Services:

A follow-up support group is provided on a bi-weekly basis for older adults who have completed treatment or are carrying out changes to their substance use.

Problem Gambling Program: (Click here to go to the Older Adult Gambling Page)

Assessment, counselling, group treatment and educational services are provided for older adults who are having difficulty with problem gambling and their family members.

Education and Training:

Sessions and workshops can be provided to professionals, community groups and the general public on substance misuse and gambling.

Early Intervention Program:

Educational sessions designed for older adults living in the community around healthy living, ways of maintaining health and wellbeing and information about prevent of falls and health risks.