Clients speak: participatory evaluation of a nonconfrontational addictions treatment program for older adults

To describe the important aspects of the Lifestyle Enrichment for Senior Adults (LESA) program from the clients' perspective and why these aspects were important to them.

The study used a participatory approach. Researchers collaborated with counselors and clients to develop an evaluation that (a) respected the experiences and knowledge of people in the program and (b) provided an accurate assessment of the important aspects of the program from the clients' perspective. One-to-one interviews were conducted with 52 clients.

Clients' relationships with counselors, the positive emotions experienced during individual and group counseling, and the program's flexibility were of key importance. Allowing clients to choose their level of involvement and the general acceptance of drinkers also contributed to perceived benefits of the program.

The benefits of client-centered addictions therapy warrant closer examination. Senior adults' motivation for behavior change may be highly sensitive to the relational aspects of the treatment approach.