MVES Encourages Adults to Take Control of Chronic Illness

Is living with a persistent health condition preventing you from really living? Take control! Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) encourages adults who are living with one or more persistent health conditions to attend a six-week workshop, “My Life, My Health,” that empowers people to take an active role in managing their illnesses. The no-cost workshop will run for six Tuesdays, September 14 through October 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Malden Senior Community Center, 7 Washington Street, Malden.

Participants will be encouraged to share what they know about their own illnesses and learn from others experiencing challenges like chronic pain, limited mobility, decreased energy, frustration with limitations, and negative impact on social life and daily living.

“This workshop uses strategies that have been proven effective,” said MVES’ Jess Hammon, who will serve as one of the course’s two group leaders. “The course helps people set and meet personal goals, improve communication with doctors, and try out simple techniques that can improve quality of life.” Additionally, participants will learn techniques to manage stress, increase energy level, and make choices about treatments.

The workshop was developed using Stanford University’s Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) model. CDSMP help people actively manage their own chronic illnesses. Participants become educated about their illnesses and make informed decisions about their own care and treatment. They build self-confidence in learning how to deal with their chronic condition as a way to improve their overall well being.

Interested participants should contact MVES’ Jess Hammon at 781-388-4827.

Want to become a leader of CDSMP workshops like this one? Group leaders undergo four full days of training. A leadership course is being offered free of charge in September at Elder Services of Merrimack Valley (ESMV), 360 Merrimack Street, Bldg. #5, Lawrence. Interested group leaders should contact ESMV’s Susan Poludniak at 978-946-1355.