Adult Day Services (ADS)

CHIRS' Adult Day Services (ADS) offers a variety of social, recreation and skill building programs to meet the needs and interests of its participants. These programs are developed and planned in collaboration with program participants and staff. Programs are run in accessible locations across the city in order to minimize travel and assist participants in getting to know the resources within their local communities. Many of the programs are run in partnership with local organizations and private businesses that provide their expertise, equipment and facilities. These relationships are mutually beneficial in allowing participants to try new programs and in helping to create a profile for brain injury within the greater community.

Many participants who attend the programs have experienced significant barriers in accessing "mainstream" programs due to cognitive, behavioural and social issues. ADS programs are geared to serve individuals who range in functional abilities - some attend independently while others require support in order to address physical and/or cognitive needs.

One of the unique components of the service is the CHIRS "Club". The Club provides both structured activities as well as a drop-in center housed at one central location. Lunch is offered each day at a low cost. Members are encouraged to stay for lunch and socialize with their peers in a less structured setting. The goal of the Club is to encourage individuals to work together with their peers and staff to create a sense of community and belonging for one another. Opportunities exist for social growth, personal success and learning in many capacities in order to help participants work toward their goals. These may include developing friendships, mastering a new skill, mentoring peers and giving back to the program through volunteering.

All Adult Day Service programs are run in a three- month cycle in order to allow participants to vary their schedules.

"When I come to the Club it is my favourite part of the day - for the social contact and for underwriting the BBN. I like that staff encourage me to come and be with people, because often I work on my own. I like that I can come and do whatever I want, I have the choice whether to join programs or to just hang out. I feel that I have a voice in decisions that are made here." - Zia, CHIRS Client.

ADS Programs

MARNIE RUSSELL, B.Sc., Hons. Psych.
ADS Service Coordinator

• General Interest/Education Programs
• Fitness Programs
• Sports Programs
• Social Programs
• Work Alternatives (CardSharks+)
• Camping Trips

All Adult Day Service programs require registration. Please contact the CHIRS Intake Department to register. Participants accessing Adult Day Service programs need to be independent for all transportation and personal support requirements, as one to one assistance is not available. Participants who require additional support are welcome to bring a family member or attendant. Please note that programs may be added or changed in response to participant feedback.