Wouldn’t it be great if there were free, evidenced-based courses that were proven to prevent falls or manage chronic conditions? These courses are indeed available in your community through AAACAP’s Health and Wellness program. Programs such as A Matter of Balance, Diabetes Self-Management, and Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions, Chronic Pain Self-Management and Building Better Caregivers are all offered regularly.
Jessica Martone, the AAACAP health and wellness coordinator, teaches many of the programs. “You wouldn’t think falls prevention would be fun, but it is — for both the participants and the leaders,” Martone said.
The programs include materials — mailed to participants — and a great chance to meet weekly with a group of peers to learn new ways to manage chronic conditions, prevent falls, or manage diabetes and chronic pain. “The classes give the participants not just concrete techniques, such as action plans and self-paced suggested exercises, but a chance to share ideas with others who can relate,” Martone said. Martone helps each person with the technical skills needed to participate if they are new to virtual events. “These workshops are so simple, you can participate just using simple digital devices, such as a tablet, and the benefits are great,” she added.
Health and Wellness Programs are a key part of the federal Older Americans Act, which nationally supports access to aging well through Area Agencies on Aging. AAACAP was one of the first in the nation to start providing the programs virtually. Courses are made possible through partnerships with community agencies and volunteer leaders — free leader trainings are available.
Get more information about hosting a program, becoming a leader, or taking the courses.
