The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence, will offer a free community-based Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP) starting Thursday, Feb. 22. The six-week virtual program will take place each Thursday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. through March 28.
Stanford University created the nationally recognized program and it covers the physical and emotional aspect of managing diabetes. DSMP is designed to improve an individual’s A1C or a blood test that measures average blood sugar levels.
The program has demonstrated proven health benefits and complements the diabetic medical management services people receive from their health care providers. Participants will enhance their ability to maintain active and fulfilling lifestyles, improve problem-solving and decision-making skills and address the challenges of living with diabetes. Workshop topics will include improving food choices, increasing physical activity and practicing coping skills to maintain nutrition and a healthy weight.
“It is important to manage diabetes to reduce complications, and this program offers important information to help not only with the physical aspects, but the emotional aspects too,” said County Executive Marc Elrich in a statement.
Individuals with diabetes or caregivers can register for the DSMP workshop online or by calling Kiera Abdul at 443-750-4267 or T’Kia Pearson at 240 777-1244.
