COA program manages chronic illness

Published 5:35 pm Sunday, February 12, 2012

CASSOPOLIS — Cass County Council on Aging is offering a new program to help manage chronic illnesses.
PATH (Personal Action Toward Health) teaches practical skills for living a healthy life with an ongoing health condition.
PATH teaches techniques to deal with the challenges of not feeling well, dealing with stress and managing everyday activities. Another key component is tips on how to talk to health care workers and family members effectively.
The program was developed by Stanford University as a way to complement health care. Researchers found participants reported less fatigue, less shortness of breath, less depression and fewer limitations.
The class begins March 7 and meets for six Wednesdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the COA, M-60 and Decatur Road, Cassopolis.
People with conditions such as diabetes, chronic pain and arthritis are just some of the many types of people who could benefit from this workshop.
The class is sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging, Region IV.
PATH is a free course for anyone with a chronic health condition, though registration is required. Register by calling (269) 445-8110.