Local program teaches people to self-manage diabetes

A symptom of modern lifestyles, adult onset diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in the world. If you are living with diabetes, you have the opportunity to attend a free self-management workshop in Point Roberts, beginning in April.

The University of Victoria Centre on Aging offers self-management programs throughout B.C. in conjunction with the provincial health ministry. The workshop is open to people living with diabetes and their caregivers. Trained leaders will deliver this workshop to a group of up to 14 people once a week for six weeks. The workshops are held every Thursday from 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m. on April 21 and 28, and May 5, 12, 19 and 26 at the community center at 1487 Gulf Road.

The workshop helps people with diabetes and their caregivers to better manage symptoms and activities of daily life. Participants receive the “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions” companion book.

Program highlights include:

• Understand and manage your health

• Make healthier eating choices

• Become more active

• Communicate effectively with healthcare providers

• Manage difficult emotions

• Set realistic goals and problem solve

Interested individuals can sign up on-line at: bit.ly/22w80vp. For additional information, call 604/940-1273 or email selfmgmt@uvic.ca.