Living with a long-term health condition is much different from living well. There are techniques, however, that allow people with chronic disease to manage symptoms and improve their circumstances. A series of free classes offered by French Hospital Medical Center this summer will teach people methods that will help them successfully control aspects of ongoing conditions.
Healthier Living: Your Life, Take Care developed out of research conducted by the Stanford University School of Medicine. Participants in those programs often showed significant improvement in self-management of their health. The six classes focus on several important topics including:
• How to manage symptoms
• Suitable exercise
• Successful methods of coping with fatigue, pain and isolation
• Managing depression
• Nutrition
• Appropriate use of medications
• Communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals
Although the classes are free, those wishing to attend should call (805) 542-6268 to reserve a space. Friends, family members and caregivers are welcome.
Healthier Living: Your Life, Take Care
August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 and Sept. 6. from 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Pacific Medical Plaza (building adjacent to French Hospital), 1941 Johnson Ave., Suite LL3 San Luis Obispo.
Chronic Disease
A chronic disease is defined as lasting three months or longer, encompassing a broad range of illnesses from diabetes to arthritis. Some 133-million Americans, or 45 percent of the entire population, are diagnosed with a chronic illness according to the U.S. National Health Council.