Center for Excellence in Aging & Community WellnessTake Action Live Healthy
Feel better, be in control, do the things you want to do! A highly interactive 6-session, 2.5 hour peer-led health education workshop that utilizes the evidence-based Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) curriculum developed and tested at Stanford University. The Living Healthy workshop is for anyone dealing with a chronic or limiting health condition and their caregivers who want to learn how to self-manage and take control in dealing with pain and fatigue, discover better nutrition and exercise choices, and learn better ways to talk with your doctor and family about your health.
“After taking the class I’m now a problem-solver instead of a victim, and I can communicate easier with my doctor about my needs.”
The way the program is taught is what makes it effective. The sessions are lively and participative: Workshop participants talk, share practice skills and learn together over the six weeks. Mutual support and success build the participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives.
“I would like you to know how much I have gotten out of this six-week course. Being goal-oriented has helped me in planning my week. I have been more alert after exercising at least three times a week—swimming and walking. Thank you!”
Living Healthy is the local implementation of the Chronic Disease Self Management Program. The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) was developed and tested by Stanford University and was designed to complement and enhance medical treatment and disease management. Research has shown that participants:
- Are able to manage their symptoms better.
- Communicate more easily with their doctors and loved ones.
- Feel better.
- Are less limited by their illness.
- Spend less time at the doctor or in the hospital.
For more information, see Stanford School of Medicine’s Chronic Disease Self-Management Program.