Media Contact: Paula Smith, Communications Manager, 513-509-9211; psmith@help4seniors.org
SPRINGDALE, OHIO, August 21, 2020 Council on Aging (COA) is working to help older adults suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes, pain, arthritis and high blood pressure, manage their symptoms. Through the free Healthy U program, older adults and their caregivers can learn techniques to improve quality of life and save money on health care expenses – all from the comfort of their home.
Healthy U is a free, small-group workshop available by phone or online that focuses on problem solving and building self-confidence to help people maintain their health and manage chronic health conditions. Participants have two things in common: they have some type of chronic or on-going health condition, and they want to improve their quality of life.
Many people struggle to manage symptoms of chronic disease — especially older adults who are more likely to be living with at least one chronic illness. In fact, according to AARP, more than 70 million Americans ages 50 and older (four out of five older adults) suffer from at least one chronic condition.
“Living with a chronic condition shouldn’t mean you have a lower quality of life,” said Judy Eschmann, COA’s director of program operations. “This is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many older adults may be feeling the effects of isolation. That’s why we’re now offering Healthy U workshops online and by phone. These new formats make it possible for people to participate, regardless of where they live in our service area.”
The workshops meet weekly for several weeks. Trained instructors work with participants as they learn to manage their symptoms. Participants learn tips and techniques for healthy eating; dealing with frustration, fatigue and isolation; exercise for maintaining and improving strength and flexibility; improving communication with family, friends and doctors; setting goals; and more.
Healthy U is available for free to older adults and their caregivers in Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton and Warren counties. Visit www.help4seniors.org/healthyu or call (513) 345-8637 for information or to register.
About Council on Aging
Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio (COA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing quality of life for older adults, people with disabilities, their families and caregivers. COA promotes choice, independence, dignity and well-being through a range of services that help people remain independent for as long as possible.
COA is a state-designated Area Agency on Aging serving a multi-county region. One call to COA links people to the wide variety of agencies, information and programs that serve older adults and people with disabilities.
Regional Headquarters
175 Tri County Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45246 | 513-721-1025 | 800-252-0155 | www.help4seniors.org
Clinton County Resource Center
2333 Rombach Avenue, Wilmington, OH 45177 | 937-449-0642 | 800-252-0155 | www.help4seniors.org