Self-Management
Take Charge
Of Your Health
Taking charge of your health means working as a partner with your doctor to manage your arthritis. Managing your condition can prevent or delay disability and improve your quality of life. Self-management programs can make you feel better. They are also fun and provide an opportunity to make new friends.
The SC Arthritis Program and the Arthritis Foundation are working together to make self-management programs available thoroughout SC. These programs are proven to help people with arthritis feel better:
The Arthritis Exercise Program: A land-based exercise program that uses gentle exercises. DHEC is working with organizations across the state to make this program available to people with arthritis, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, or location.
The SC PACE Senior Project took the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program to two rural, underserved areas of the state. Bamberg and Marion counties were selected for this grant initiative due to their high prevalence of arthritis and risk factors related to arthritis. The project was a partnership with SC DHEC, the Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging, the Arthritis Foundation, the local Aging Network, Clemson University, and African American faith-based organizations. It was funded from January 2005 - December 2006 by the Chronic Disease Directors, with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Administration on Aging, and the National Association of State Units on Aging. The exercise program is continuing in both counties today.
Arthritis Foundation Self-Help Program : A six-week group education program to help people with arthritis gain confidence and build skills to manage their condition. DHEC's local health departments and other partners offer this program in South Carolina. Volunteers are needed to expand the program to new areas of the state.
Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program : A warm water exercise program offered in a number of areas of the state. DHEC is working to increase awareness about this program.
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