ABINGTON, AVON, BRIDGEWATER, BROCKTON, EAST BRIDGEWATER, EASTON, HOLBROOK, STOUGHTON, WEST BRIDGEWATER AND WHITMAN, MA...

Arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and asthma are illnesses and chronic conditions that affect seniors at a much higher rate than younger adults.

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is helping seniors and others dealing with chronic diseases take charge of their own health by offering FREE My Life, My Health Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs (CDSMP) in English and Spanish. The programs are designed to give people with chronic conditions and/or their caregivers the knowledge and skills needed to take a more active role in their health care.

The first Spanish speaking session will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Neighborhood Health Center, 63 Main Street in Brockton.

The first English speaking session will be held on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Abington Council on Aging, 441 Summer Street in Abington.

Each program runs for six consecutive weeks.

My Life, My Health CDSMP programs teach individuals:

How to deal with issues such as frustration, pain, isolation and fatigue.
How to exercise to improve strength and endurance.
How to improve nutrition by healthier eating.
How to set goals and speak effectively with doctors or other health care professionals.
How to use medications properly.

Partial funding for the OCES My Life, My Health CDSMP was provided by a grant from Greater Brockton Community Health Network Area (CHNA). These programs are offered to seniors residing in the Greater Brockton CHNA service area including Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Holbrook, Stoughton, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

OCES’ My Life, My Health program is FREE and lunch will be provided each week. Seating is limited. To sign up for the program, contact Dottie Slack at (508) 584-1561.

Old Colony Elder Services is seeking Spanish and English speaking volunteers who would like to become My Life, My Health CDSMP trained leaders. Contact Dottie Slack at (508) 584-1561.

The organization's mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.

In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 157 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org