Diabetes Association, BCBSRI offering boot camp for seniors

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. – The American Diabetes Association is partnering with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island to deliver education and resources to Rhode Island senior citizens affected by diabetes.
The ADA’s Diabetes Boot Camp for Seniors, presented by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, is a half-day, educational program designed to help seniors to understand best practices in diabetes self-management. Rhode Island senior citizens affected by diabetes can choose to attend events on Nov. 20 and Dec. 8.
“Currently, one in four Americans over the age of 60 is living with diabetes, and there is a great need for further education among older adults,” said Chris Boynton, executive director of the American Diabetes Association of New England. “We are deeply appreciative of the support from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island to help us to bring this program to the Ocean State.”
The boot camp series is designed to help seniors prevent diabetes and keep treatment from impairing daily living, or slowing them down, Boynton said.
“Self-management is an integral part of diabetes care, regardless of age, but seniors can be particularly vulnerable to diabetes complications,” said Dr. Katherine Dallow, vice president, clinical affairs for BCBSRI. “Supporting educational programs like the ADA’s Diabetes Boot Camp for Seniors is an important part of our mission to simplify healthcare and improve the lives of Rhode Islanders.”
Both half-day boot camps will feature speakers, resources, healthy cooking demonstrations and health screenings to help seniors understand how they can improve their diabetes self-management, health outcomes and quality of life. The events are free, but registration is requested.
For the Nov. 20 event, call the Newport County YMCA in Middletown at 401-847-9200. For the Dec. 8 event, call the Woonsocket Senior Center in Woonsocket at 401-766-0516.

No posts to display