In 2000, the Centers for Healthy Hearts and Souls (CHHS) was formed. It is a faith/community-based health promotion organization. CHHS aims to develop a model that can be used by anyone for modifying the knowledge, attitude and behaviors that are important for self-care.
Diabetes support group participants are recruited by word of mouth through ongoing relationships with church health ministries, current participants and physicians. Each group meets at key community locations. These locations includes places like the Kingsley Center, Hill House Senior Center, West Park Court and the Latino Family Center. Groups are led by a primary care physician, registered nurse, occupational therapist or pharmacist. A lay health advocate communicates with participants by telephone and home visits when necessary between group sessions. One group is held in Spanish.
A variety of activities happen at each session. This includes talking about an important health topic (e.g. diabetes), an activity (e.g. taste tests of low-fat salad dressings) and data collection (e.g. blood pressure measurement). There is also time for “Ask the Doctor” or “Ask the Pharmacist” sessions. Speakers such as exercise trainers, podiatrists, mental health specialists and ophthalmologists give presentations and answer questions.
The support group also talks about diabetes self-care and exercise. Snacks are provided because meetings last two hours. The nutritional label details, cost and availability of various snack items are an important part of the learning process.
Each group meeting ends with a blessing that often includes prayers for group members and their family members who need extra support. Many members stay afterward to share stories and other information. If you would like more information about the diabetes support groups, call 412-419-8939.
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