1. Disease Self-Management
Sharon Johnson M.S.
Oregon State University Extension Service

2. “The Silver Tsunami” Increased life expectancy More older adults
More chronic disease

3. More Chronic Disease…
88% of people over sixty-five have one chronic condition
Example:
Diabetes present in one in five older adults

4. The Symptom Cycle
Goal:
Intervene to break the disease cycle
Disease

5. Chronic Disease Self-Management
What is it?
Constant modeling
Goal-setting
Active problem-solving
Action planning

6. “Disease self-management is common sense…”
Information and ideas:
Pain management
Relaxation approaches
Medication Management
Nutrition
Exercise
Treatment evaluation

7. Disease Self-Management: Stanford University Approach
Structured 15-person six-week workshops
Peer instructors and peer support
Designed to enhance medical treatment

8. What impact has it had? Benefits include:
Increased patient self-confidence
Improved health status
Reduced doctor visits and emergency room use

9. Where do I sign up? More information: www.sohealthyoregon.org
Register by calling:
Classes available in Jackson and Josephine Counties on an on-going basis
And its health and human service partners in the community