Better Choices, Better Health, a FREE evidence-based chronic disease self management program is continuing to be rolled out across the Lowcountry region.  DHEC and the Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging have partnered to bring this series of workshops to local communities across the state.  Here in the Lowcountry, there are 18 trained Leaders and the program is being offered in Beaufort, Hampton, Jasper and Colleton counties.
Many people are living with on-going conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease and depression.  This six-week workshop is facilitated by two trained peer leaders, and covers topics including techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength,  flexibility, and endurance; appropriate use of medications; communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals; healthy eating and good nutrition; and how to evaluate new treatments.
Workshops may be held at churches, community facilities, health centers and other sites willing to host and help promote the program. We have one workshop series beginning September 15 at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Lady’s Island, and another beginning September 22 at Memory Matters on Hilton Head Island.
Each session lasts two and a half hours, and there must be a minimum of 20 registrants signed up (a minimum of 12 participants is required to run the workshop series). The interactive workshops not only teach about personal management of chronic conditions, but develop skills in the participants like how to brainstorm and problem solve, as well as how to develop and successfully follow an action plan.
For more information, contact Claire Glasson, MPA, 843.252.4537 or email glassomc@dhec.sc.gov.