The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO) is trying to promote the return of the services of the Pontiac Day Centre, which offers mobile activities and education for seniors to help them stay autonomous at home.

Serena Larivière, a leisure technician with the CISSSO, explained that the program has existed in the Pontiac since 1989, but she said that it has become less known in recent years. She explained that the program is limited to those who have experienced a “loss of autonomy”, either due to a diagnosis, a fall or other changes in circumstances:

The Day Centre is mobile and prior to COVID-19, had activities in several communities such as Shawville, Bryson, Chapeau and Luskville. Larivière said that they were in the process of returning to these locations as public health guidelines allow. Adapted transportation is available for anyone that needs it.

Larivière explained that they offer both mental and physical stimulation in addition to information sessions where attendees learn about things like fraud or fire prevention. The centre might also provide some time off for the person’s primary caregiver:

Larivière said that in order to qualify for the Day Centre, attendees must receive a referral from a health care professional, such as a social worker or personal physician. However, she said that people without those resources can call 811 option 2 and speak with a social worker who will determine if they meet the criteria. They can also call 819 647 3851 ext. 3248. Larivière added that while these are group settings, staff will adapt activities to the abilities and goals of the individual:

The full interview with Larivière is available below: