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Community Health Education Calendar | Support Groups
LIVING WELL WITH CHRONIC DISEASE
Learn how to manage your chronic illness
For people dealing with a chronic disease, or those living with someone who has a long-term health condition, life often presents continuing challenges. Now, help is available from an evidence-based self-management program developed by Stanford University.
The Memorial Hospital offers the six-week Living Well workshop series on a regular basis. It is the first time the program will be available anywhere in New Hampshire. The course is taught by certified nurse leaders and lay people who have chronic conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s, asthma or COPD.
The two-hour sessions are designed to encourage mutual support and build confidence in the ability to manage one’s health and maintain an active life. Participants are encouraged to bring a family member, friend or caregiver.
Among the major topics covered during the six weeks are nutrition; exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility and endurance; techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; and proper use of medications. Effective communication about chronic illness with family, friends and health professionals, and ways to evaluate new treatments, are also highlighted.
Today, many people are managing more than one chronic illness. For them, “Living Well” offers help in developing the skills needed to coordinate and better manage multiple health conditions. The program does not conflict with existing programs or treatment in which a person may be enrolled. “Living Well” is intended to enhance regular treatment and disease-specific education such as Better Breathers, cardiac rehabilitation or diabetes instruction.
Class size is limited to ensure an optimum experience for each participant. “Living Well” will be offered on an ongoing basis; suggested donation is $20.
Call 356-5461, Ext. 291 for more information or to register for an upcoming series.
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