Virtual Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) was developed from collaborative research between Stanford University and the Northern California Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program. Traditionally offered in person, it is now offered virtually.

The program is delivered once a week for six weeks to adults with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, COPD, depression, arthritis, etc. As a group, participants share experiences and ideas and learn real-life tools and skills that aid in managing day-to-day symptoms, so they may live a more active, independent, better quality of life. 

They learn to manage their medications, communicate with their healthcare team and family, set weekly goals, and learn tips for better food choices and how to be more active. These tools include decision-making, brainstorming and problem-solving technics, action planning and exercises. 

CDSMP incorporates methods of "Using Your Mind," "Understanding Emotions and Breathing" and "Relaxation Technics" to help deal with fatigue, difficult emotions, pain, stress and other symptoms. 

From this program, participants gain more confidence in managing their health and benefit from an increase in energy and psychological well-being, improved health status, increased physical activity and less pain symptoms, along with less health costs and hospitalizations. Therefore, CDSMP helps individuals take back their lives.

For information about this program and other programs offered by the Prince William Area Agency on Aging, call 703-792-6374 or visit www.pwcgov.org/aging.