AgeWise: Managing Chronic Health Problems
By: KNWA Today's Laine Baker
Updated: December 28, 2011
At the age of 81, Glenn Parsons works out several times a week, keeps a close eye on what he eats and his medications. Glenn started his good habits a few years ago after taking the Schmieding Center's chronic disease self-management workshop.
"I've learned our health is a result of stuff we did or didn't do," said Parsons. "what we eat or didn't eat."
The workshop helps seniors and their families deal with chronic health issues.
"Part of the goal is to help people live well," said the center's Director of Education, Dr. Gary McHenry. "We want people to be able to manage their own conditions."
Glenn met with trainers and other participants for six weeks talking about ways to manage his condition and emotions to live life to the fullest.
"The whole deal was a good overall incentive to do what we ought to do," said Parsons.
Experts find people who talk about chronic health issues in groups and discuss nutrition, exercise and medications not only deal better physically, but mentally.
Glen continues his healthy habits - keeping him in good health - and good spirits, saying, "I want to make the best of it."
"I've learned our health is a result of stuff we did or didn't do," said Parsons. "what we eat or didn't eat."
The workshop helps seniors and their families deal with chronic health issues.
"Part of the goal is to help people live well," said the center's Director of Education, Dr. Gary McHenry. "We want people to be able to manage their own conditions."
Glenn met with trainers and other participants for six weeks talking about ways to manage his condition and emotions to live life to the fullest.
"The whole deal was a good overall incentive to do what we ought to do," said Parsons.
Experts find people who talk about chronic health issues in groups and discuss nutrition, exercise and medications not only deal better physically, but mentally.
Glen continues his healthy habits - keeping him in good health - and good spirits, saying, "I want to make the best of it."
