Senior Enrichment-Services of Oberlin
Evidence-based, health self-management education programs (SME) were delivered to an open
community base of seniors and caregivers in the areas of pain management, diabetes, chronic
disease, and improving balance and fall prevention. People with chronic conditions are challenged in
managing their health and navigating the health care system; it can be overwhelming. Their
challenges increase with the number of chronic conditions. SME programs focus on preparing people
with chronic conditions for the 99% of the time they live outside of the health care system.
Each 6 to 8 week program had 12-15 participants immersing themselves in the weekly class topics
and group interaction. They learned new ideas and supported each other, making achievable action
plans to do the things they wanted, and equipped members to respond to their condition(s) with
proven ways to enhance their lifestyle and allow them to be in control.
Each class “graduated” 100% of the participants and new friendships and celebrations were a
positive benefit of this type of group interaction. The SME teaching models are just one aspect
of the Senior Enrichment Services of Oberlin Supportive Programming. In all, 462 unduplicated
individuals received Supportive Service assistance; 520 Supportive Service units were completed
helping seniors resolve housing & family support issues, help with benefits, and aging challenges
during 2015. The long term beneficial impacts that health management workshops have on our
participants are positive health outcomes, lasting behavior changes and lower health care costs.