Local Diabetes Workshop Improves Senior's Health and Wellbeing

Among older adults, Diabetes can often lead to serious conditions if not managed, including heart attack, stroke, eye problems, blindness, amputations, kidney disease and even death. The Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) is expanding a proven and successful health and wellness program for older adults, age 60 called Diabetes PATH (Personal Action Toward Health). Diabetes PATH helps individuals better manage their diabetes and will be offered at Hartland Senior Center (9525 Highland Road, Howell, MI 48843) every Monday for six weeks starting July 13 thru August 17, 2015 from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm.

Diabetes PATH was developed by the Stanford University School of Medicine to help individuals better manage their Diabetes. It is a six-week workshop conducted in 2 ½ hour sessions each week. Diabetes PATH workshop participants learn techniques to deal with the symptoms of diabetes, fatigue, pain, stress and emotional challenges such as depression, anger, frustration and fear. They also learn strategies for healthy eating, appropriate exercises to maintain and improve strength and endurance and ways to work more effectively with their doctor. Family members, friends and caregivers are also encouraged to attend the workshops.

“We are excited about increasing access to these educational and empowering programs to help older adults in our communities improve their health and wellness,” said Tina Abbate Marzolf, CEO of the Area Agency on Aging 1-B. “Diabetes PATH has been demonstrated to have a real and lasting impact on people’s lives.”

Diabetes PATH classes cost $15 to enroll. Participants are expected to attend all/most weekly sessions to complete the class. Upon completion, each participant will receive a $15 gift card. For more information about the classes, locations and times, call the Area Agency on Aging 1-B at 800-852-7795 or visit www.aaa1b.com.