The Next Chapter in Living Well - Managing Chronic Conditions

Published on: 3/27/2014

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention)  almost one out of every two Americans is living with at least one chronic condition such as diabetes, arthritis, or hypertension.  Chronic diseases are noncommunicable illnesses that are prolonged in duration, do not resolve spontaneously, and are rarely cured completely. 

  • Chronic diseases cause 7 in 10 deaths each year in the United States.
  • About 133 million Americans—nearly 1 in 2 adults—live with at least one chronic illness.
  • More than 75% of health care costs are due to chronic conditions.
  • Approximately one-fourth of persons living with a chronic illness experience significant limitations in daily activities.
  • The percentage of U.S. children and adolescents with a chronic health condition has increased from 1.8% in the 1960s to more than 7% in 2004.

That's the sobering news.  Here's some uplifting information:

Living Well Workshops are offered at no charge to help adults who are trying to live well with a chronic conditions.  Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Community Memorial Hospital is taking registrations for a Living Well Workshop session starting May 15 and running through June 19.  The workshop meets each Thursday from 9 - 11:30 a.m. in Menomonee Falls.  Registration is required as space is limited.  Please call 800-272-3666 to register.

Workshops are best for anyone who:

  • Has, or lives with someone who has, one or more chronic conditions
  • Is living in a home or apartment; and
  • Is not suffering from dementia

Living Well benefits:

  • Improved general health (as reported by participants)
  • Fewer days of hospitalization
  • Fewer out-patient health care visits
  • Cost savings of approximately 10:1

Free, and it just may save money on health bills?  That's worth checking out!