What is the Live Well disease self-management program for older adults?

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Live Well brings great news for older adults and caregivers. It helps them manage on-going conditions. These conditions may include:

  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Heart and lung disease
  • Asthma
  • Chronic pain

Live Well is a nationwide, evidence-based health program developed by Stanford University. Workshops help participants and caregivers to:

  • Find better ways of dealing with pain and fatigue
  • Discover easy exercises to help improve or maintain strength and energy
  • Learn the appropriate use of medications
  • Improve nutrition
  • Talk effectively with family, friends and health professionals
  • Understand new treatment choices
  • Feel better about life
  • Increase confidence in ability to manage health

Workshops are highly interactive. They are led by two trained facilitators. One or both have chronic diseases and are non-health professionals. Workshops cover new topics each week. They allow for interaction and group problem-solving.

Live Well workshops consist of a two-hour session, once a week for six weeks. Workshops are held in community senior centers, churches, hospitals, and libraries. They are also available online via Zoom or by phone. People with different chronic health problems attend together.

How can I attend a Live Well Workshop?

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging. Ask to speak with the Live Well Coordinator for a list of workshops in your area. Or, complete this referral form and a program representative will contact you. Workshops are offered in-person, virtually, and by phone.

Is the program offered in different languages?

Yes! In Connecticut, the Live Well program is also offered in Spanish. The program is called Tomando Control de su Salud. Interested individuals can contact their local Area Agency on Aging for a listing of workshops in their area.

Does the Program replace existing programs and treatments?

Live Well will not conflict with existing programs or treatment. It aims to boost regular treatment and disease-specific education. This includes Better Breathers, cardiac rehab, and diabetes training.

In addition, many people have more than one chronic condition. The program is especially helpful for these people. It gives them the skills to manage their health and stay active.

How is the Program Funded?

This program is funded by the Department of Aging and Disability Services through Title III-D of the Older Americans Act.

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