Area Agency On Aging Helps Older Adults Through Virtual Health & Wellness Programs

The Area Agency on Aging of the Capital Area (AAACAP), a CAPCOG division, has moved its health and wellness programs to a virtual setting so older adults can improve and maintain their physical health, mental health and manage the cycle of symptoms related to their conditions while practicing physical distancing measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The agency is continually seeking participants and will offer courses based on interest.

“Our participants are thrilled to have this online opportunity,” said Jessica Martone, AAACAP health, prevention, and wellness coordinator. “Attending an online workshop is a win/win. They are safe at home and getting the incredible benefits of learning to take better care of themselves at a time when they need it most. But most importantly, we are having fun together.”

Since the courses first moved to an online platform in April, the programs have helped older adults combat social isolation by streaming individuals together from around the 10-county region.

They also allowed instructors to connect attendees with additional resources and make referrals to other AAACAP programs if needed.

Courses being offered online include Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions Self-Management and Chronic Pain Self-Management.

Both are evidence-based intervention programs that offer a two-and-a-half-hour session once a week for six weeks.

They are taught in a small-group setting with no more than 12 people, which allows participants to share and learn from each other’s experiences.