Learn to Manage Your Chronic Condition for FREE in Punta Gorda

NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla. - Dec. 20, 2019 - PRLog -- If you are a senior with a chronic condition, you're not alone.  Four out of every five adults over the age of 60 have at least one chronic disease, and nearly as many have two or more.  Chronic diseases cause almost two-thirds of all deaths among seniors each year. Fortunately, free programs are available locally for people with chronic illnesses to take charge of their health.

Staring Jan. 6, the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) will offer a free six-week Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) workshop in Punta Gorda.  Workshops begin Jan. 7 and continue every Tuesday at The Verandas of Punta Gorda (24500 Airport Rd.). Participants who complete at least five sessions will be entered to win a drawing for a $25 Walmart gift card, courtesy of Senior Friendship Centers.

Adults over the age of 60 and adults with disabilities who have one or more chronic conditions are encouraged to participate.  Common chronic conditions include heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, osteoporosis, obesity, and chronic pain.

The CDSMP is an evidence-based program designed to help participants make a step-by-step plan for improving their health and their lives.  The program was developed at Stanford University, and is offered across in 30 countries.  More than 300,000 people have benefited from the CDSMP.

Research has found that people who complete the CDSMP feel healthier and have a better quality of life after completing the program.  They report fewer sick days and increase their ability to manage their pain, stress, breathing problems, and sleep issues. Participants also develop a support network of others who live with ongoing health conditions.

Space is limited and advance registration is required.  To register, contact Sherry Young, AAASWFL's Health & Wellness Coordinator at sherry.young@aaaswfl.org or by calling the Elder Helpline toll-free at 866-413-5337 (41-ELDER).

Funding for the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is provided by a grant from the US Administration for Community Living through the Florida Department of Elder Affairs.

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is a nonprofit organization that has served Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota Counties for more than 40 years. The organization is committed to connecting older adults and people with disabilities to resources and assistance for living safely with independence and dignity. AAASWFL is the state's designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida.

More information is available by visiting the AAASWFL website at http://www.aaaswfl.org or by calling the Elder Helpline: (866) 413-5337.