Healthy-U helps adults conquer symptoms of chronic health conditions
 Pat (left) with her walking buddy, Gini
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When Pat, a 78-year-old resident at St. Mark`s Community in Milford, heard about the Healthy-U Chronic Disease Self Management Program, she thought she`d give it a try.
A dialysis patient and arthritis sufferer, Pat was in a self-described rut. She had been telling herself she couldn`t do this or that because of health problems. She wanted to get out of that mindset and she wanted to learn how to manage pain without taking more medications.
Six weeks later, Pat said, "I learned a lot. I`ve found myself having a lot more energy. I can do housework!"
Services and Benefits
The Healthy-U Chronic Disease Self Management Program is for adults of any age and their caregivers with any type of chronic health condition (diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, fibromyalgia, arthritis, sickle cell and others). It is an evidenced-based program that focuses on problem solving and building self-confidence to help people maintain their health and manage chronic health conditions.
Healthy-U participants meet in small groups for six weeks. With the help of a facilitator, an easy-to-read workbook, and the support of their peers, participants learn from each other and brainstorm ways to overcome barriers to healthy living, set goals, and report on their progress each week.
Healthy-U facilitators come from a variety of backgrounds: some are adults who have personal experience managing a chronic condition, and others are professionals (nurses, care managers, health educators, etc.). Regardless of their background, Healthy-U leaders receive training and course materials at no cost. And, some trainees (non-professional) may be eligible for a stipend.
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Eligibility
Healthy-U is for adults of any age and their caregivers with any type of chronic health condition (diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, fibromyalgia, arthritis, sickle cell and others).
How to Enroll
Healthy-U workshops are offered year round at locations throughout southwest Ohio. Some of the workshops focus specifically on diabetes, while other are open to adults with any type of chronic illness. Click here for a list of current and upcoming workshops.
Additional Information
Healthy-U was developed at Stanford University. The original program participants were tracked for three years with positive results, including significant improvements in exercise, symptom management, communication with physicians, fatigue, disability, and activities limitations. Additionally, participants spent fewer days in the hospital compared with those who did not participate in the program.
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Become a Healthy-U Facilitator
Healthy-U facilitators come from a variety of backgrounds: some are adults who have personal experience managing a chronic condition, and others are professionals (nurses, care managers, health educators, etc.). Regardless of their background, Healthy-U leaders receive training and course materials at no cost.
New Healthy-U facilitators and host locations are also needed. For information about facilitator training or to learn more about hosting the Healthy-U program, call (513) 345-8652.
Testimonials
"The [Healthy-U] workshops compliment the education that participants have already received from their health care providers. The valuable tools they will learn during the six week program will help them manage their illnesses and, therefore, have a better life." Jean Hicks, RN, Healthy-U Facilitator, Springdale Health Department
This program is made possible by a joint effort of the Administration on Aging, the National Council on Aging, the Ohio Department of Aging, the Ohio Department of Health and Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio.
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