HEALTHY AGING PARTNERSHIP
The Hawaii Healthy Aging Partnership (HAP) was established in 2003 to improve the health status of older adults by empowering residents to make healthy decisions and engage in healthier lifestyles.
EVIDENCE-BASED PROGRAMS
The Partnership is committed to offering evidence-based health promotion and disease prevention programs – programs that have been tested and proven to work. Currently, offered programs include:
EnhanceFitness – An exercise program designed to work the cardiovascular system and improve participants’ balance, flexibility, and muscle strength.
Ke Ola Pono Disease Self-Management Programs – Designed and tested at Stanford University, Ke Ola Pono or “Living Well” classes empower and teach participants to manage their chronic conditions. Participants meet in small classes for about 2 ½ hours each week for 6 weeks. Together, they learn skills to manage their conditions and work toward achieving personal health goals. Classes are open to individuals age 18 and older.
Chronic Disease Self-Management (CDSMP) – General Chronic Disease Management
The Ke Ola Pono : Healthy Living is a 6 week program for people living with all types or combinations of chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, cancer, being overweight, diabetes, stroke, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
Topics include:
- Effective communication with doctors
- Relaxation techniques to deal with symptoms and stress
- Action plan development
- Problem solving
- Symptom management
People who participate in and complete the workshops feel better, are less limited by their health conditions, and often spend less time at their doctor’s office. Participants are better able to manage their symptoms and communicate more effectively with their medical professionals and loved ones.
Arthritis Self-Management (ASMP) – Managing Arthritis and Fibromyalgia
Living Well with Arthritis is a 6 week workshop tailored specifically for individuals affected by arthritis and fibromyalgia. Workshops help participants take care of themselves and do the things necessary to manage their arthritis and its related symptoms.
Participants in the Living Well with Arthritis workshop feel better; report improved mobility; decreased pain and fatigue; and increased confidence in their ability to remain in control of their lives.
Topics include:
- Appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving flexibility, endurance, and strength
- Pain management
- The importance of sleep quality
- Problem solving
- Techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain, and isolation
Diabetes Self-Management (DSMP) – Managing Diabetes
Living Well with Diabetes is a workshop geared specifically for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes or Pre-diabetes and their caregivers. Past workshop participants have lowered their HbA1c levels and decreased their diabetes-related symptoms.
Topics include:
- Goal-setting
- Planning for sick days
- Using medication appropriately
- Eating healthy eating
- Communicating with doctors effectively
PARTNERSHIP
The Healthy Aging Partnership is co-led by EOA and the Hawaii Department of Health Community Health Division and includes the State’s four Area Agencies on Aging, some District Health Offices, and service providers from the aging and public health networks. To learn more about joining the Partnership, please contact EOA at (808) 586-0100.