The holidays are right around the corner, and this year more families will gather, more parties will be planned, and more holiday treats baked. The increased activity and food temptations can be exhausting and challenging if you are trying to manage a chronic condition such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or long-haul COVID-19.
The Atlanta Regional Commission’s Aging and Independence Services is offering a class that will help you keep health a top priority, even during the busy holiday season. Living Well with Chronic Conditions is an interactive, six-week long program that meets once a week for two hours online over Zoom.
A chronic condition is any medical condition that lasts one year or more and requires ongoing medical attention. The Living Well workshops provide tools for taking care of yourself. Some of these tools include setting goals, creating action plans, learning healthier eating habits, communicating about your condition with friends and health professionals, and dealing with difficult emotions. It is all about helping you feeling empowered and in control of your health.
Powder Springs resident, Brenda C., recently completed the class series. “I really enjoyed the workshop because it made me more accountable and committed to myself.” Brenda, who has on-going cholesterol issues, described the class as a “lifesaver” because she gained a better understanding of her chronic condition and developed healthier, long-lasting habits.
The Living Well workshops are also a great way to connect with others who share similar concerns. Through the workshop, Brenda met fellow participant, Meg F., and found out they lived near each other. “I’d mentioned in the class that one of my goals was to get out and walk, and Meg invited me to go with her. Now, we walk together every week.”
Seeing each other on Zoom was not a barrier to fostering fellowship. “Even though the class was virtual, we all still interacted and connected with each other,” Brenda said. “It gave me a reason to fix my hair and look presentable.” The class size is limited to 12, a number that allows plenty of opportunities to brainstorm and share ideas.
Workshop participants also receive a book “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions”, which Brenda said is one of her favorite takeaways because she can access multiple resources in one place. “Since the workshop ended, I read it all the time,” Brenda said.
The Holiday Edition of Living Well with Chronic Conditions will begin on Monday, October 25 from 3–5 p.m. and runs through December 6, skipping the week of Thanksgiving. The workshop is free of charge.
Register before Oct. 11 at Living Well Workshop Sign-Up – Empowerline or call (470) 631-6015 for more information.
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