Chronic disease, self-management series scheduled in Union County

Southern Seven Health Department shares that growing older and living longer isn’t about counting the years, it’s about quality of life.  

The health department says that adults who are living with chronic conditions, as well as those who serve as caregivers for people with serious health conditions, often have questions about maintaining a high quality of life while living with the illness.  

Serious health issues which can be a cause for concern include diabetes, arthritis, lung disease, Parkinson’s, heart disease or other chronic conditions.

To help answer questions that area residents may have, Southern Seven Health Department is planning to present a free workshop series in Union County titled “Take Charge of Your Health: Live Well, Be Well.” 

The series is scheduled to last for six weeks, on Mondays from March 2 through April 13.

Workshops are planned from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. each week at the Union County Courthouse in Jonesboro.

The evidence based, self-management workshop is designed to help individuals take control of their diabetes or other chronic health conditions. 

The health department said in a news release that the program is “a fun and interactive course that will equip patients with the necessary tools to overcome daily challenges to help maintain an active and fulfilling life.” 

Participants will get the support they need from certified volunteer leaders with chronic conditions themselves.  

The workshops will offer an opportunity to learn practical ways to deal with pain, fatigue and other symptoms, to discover better nutrition and exercise choices, to understand  about new treatment choices and managing their medications, to learn better ways to talk with a doctor and family about health concerns and setting and achieving goals. 

Southern Seven Health Department said research developed at Stanford University showed that patients who participate in the program see a reduction in hospital stays and emergency room visits, an increased feeling of control of their life, increased energy levels and significantly improved overall health status.  

For more information, or to register for the program, contact Southern Seven Health Department by phone at 833-8561 or online at hsidn.org/takecharge.