Fostering Independence at The OAKs

Fostering Independence at The OAKs, involves diving into the lives and daily routines of residents at a Managed Alcohol Program at 1057 Merivale Rd in Ottawa. Following these individuals, the team was able to see “The Pour”, a medically regulated scheduled alcohol administration every hour on the half hour. We see the world of harm reduction working at its finest within the safe gated community of this program. Here we are able to see the sense of community, a safe place to sleep and 3 square meals a day eaten. Working alongside staff, the team of students were able to create opportunities for residents to find brain engaging recreational activities. These healthy forms of entertainment enables people to have the choice, thus, independence in a different aspect in their life. Using resources in the community, student facilitated activities, and utilizing resident preferences, the team was able to construct a poster with planned activities tailored to the needs of the residents.