The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a workshop that is 2 1/2 hours long for six weeks. The workshop is set in a community setting such as senior centers, churches and hospitals. People with chronic health problems attend together. The workshops are facilitated by two trained lay leaders who also have a chronic condition.

The subjects include:

                1.            Techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation
                2.            Appropriate exercise to maintain and improve strength, flexibility, and endurance
                3.            Appropriate use of medications
                4.            Communicating with family, friends, and health professionals
                5.            Nutrition
                6.            How to evaluate new treatments

Monica Braunwart, Prime Wise and Janet Stickels, NKADD have led the classes in the Northern Kentucky region. We now have six lay leaders to facilitate the classes. The groups has had the opportunity to get to know and work with one another  toward fitness and  personal goals. The lay leaders were able to watch the groups connect and form friendships and  improve their outlook on how to manage their chronic condition.

Janet Stickels is currently scheduling classes with Senior Housing/Assisted Living facilities. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to improve their chronic conditions. The classes are free and come with a book and a CD. If you have any questions please contact Janet Stickels at the Northern Kentucky Area Development District at 859-283-8188 or Janet Stickels.