LAHAINA — Hui No Ke Ola Pono Inc. will offer its is Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) in Lahaina.

The program, developed by Stanford University and Kaiser Permanente, is sponsored by the Maui County Office on Aging.

This patient self-management program can help prevent or delay disability, even in patients with diabetes, arthritis, heart disease or high blood pressure.

People with different chronic diseases attend the workshops together. It teaches the skills needed in the day-to-day management of treatment and to maintain and increase life’s activities.

Participants decide what they want to work on, set an action plan and are supported in achieving their goals.

The classes show participants how to take small, manageable steps toward healthier living and improve their ability to manage day-to-day activities of life. Many people on Maui have benefited from the program.

Workshops are facilitated by two trained moderators. Topics covered include: 1) healthy eating and menu planning; 2) techniques to deal with problems such as fatigue, frustration and isolation; 3) appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility and endurance; 4) methods for relaxation; 5) communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals; 6) goal-setting; 7) disease-related problem solving.

According to the Stanford University Patient Education Research Center, health education and lifestyle changes of CDSMP participants contribute greatly to reducing the negative consequences of chronic disease and lowers their cost of health care. Graduates from the program have experienced better health and led more active lives.

Although people tend to develop chronic conditions as they age, growing old does not have to mean becoming disabled. People who participate in CDSMP find that their health improves over time and they have confidence to continue a healthy lifestyle. Caregivers are encouraged to attend.

The total cost is $10 for people 65 and older and $35 for younger participants. Scholarships are available. Programs will be conducted in Lahaina throughout the year. Call 281-0094.