Are you familiar with the Chronic Disease Self Management program (CDSMP)? This is a 6 week program developed to educate and support persons with chronic (long term) disease and disorders. It is designed to be taught by two co-leaders or peers, one of whom has a chronic disease. The program is completely written out in a large 3 ring binder.There is a charge I believe for the participants books but if you buy some and "loan" them to those who take the class, that might be the best way to do it. It is also available on the web in Iowa...called"Better Choices, Better Health". However, doing this in a group setting is so much more beneficial for the participants. The program addresses the physical, mental, emotional and social challenges of having a chronic disease and what people can do to improve their health and quality of life. To incorporate the spiritual/faith aspect into this material would be wonderful. This is not a biblically based program but a public/community health program promoted by the CDC. There is training required for the leaders/facillitators but if you are in a metropolitan area, your local public health or agency on aging might have that available and the training is usually free. You do not have to have a medical or nursing background to lead this group - It is designed to be led by peers. Since you said you wanted to do this for 6 weeks, it seemed appropriate for your needs. If I can help you any further, please let me know. It's very encouraging to know there are people trying to support others with chronic disease.
Posted in: Disability Concerns - Long Term...
Are you familiar with the Chronic Disease Self Management program (CDSMP)? This is a 6 week program developed to educate and support persons with chronic (long term) disease and disorders. It is designed to be taught by two co-leaders or peers, one of whom has a chronic disease. The program is completely written out in a large 3 ring binder.There is a charge I believe for the participants books but if you buy some and "loan" them to those who take the class, that might be the best way to do it. It is also available on the web in Iowa...called"Better Choices, Better Health". However, doing this in a group setting is so much more beneficial for the participants. The program addresses the physical, mental, emotional and social challenges of having a chronic disease and what people can do to improve their health and quality of life. To incorporate the spiritual/faith aspect into this material would be wonderful. This is not a biblically based program but a public/community health program promoted by the CDC. There is training required for the leaders/facillitators but if you are in a metropolitan area, your local public health or agency on aging might have that available and the training is usually free. You do not have to have a medical or nursing background to lead this group - It is designed to be led by peers. Since you said you wanted to do this for 6 weeks, it seemed appropriate for your needs. If I can help you any further, please let me know. It's very encouraging to know there are people trying to support others with chronic disease.