Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSM) is a six-week education and support program. It offers older adults with chronic health problems the opportunity to build skills and share experiences on a number of topics:

  1. problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation
  2. appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance
  3. appropriate use of medications
  4. communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals
  5. nutrition, and
  6. how to evaluate new treatments.

Seniors' Care is a six-video series about common health challenges in older adults. As you age, it's important to adopt a healthy lifestyle and be aware of early signs and symptoms of health issues so preventative measures and early interventions can be taken. Watch the video Seniors' Care at NYGH: Chronic disease management and view other videos in the series.

Many older adults in Canada are living with one or more chronic conditions that will have a long-term impact on their lives, such as diabetes, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Because of these multiple health issues, North York General Hospital Physician Dr. Patrick Chu says a holistic approach to care is ideal. Programs and workshops can help provide older adults with the tools and resources to live an active life with a chronic condition.