BRIDGTON — The Bridgton Hospital Diabetes Clinic will present a three-part diabetes self-management course beginning Friday, Feb. 13.
The course introduces patients to a diabetes support system. The classes will provide information about diabetes that can help patients better manage their health.
The course will consist of the following:
Feb. 13: Linda Russell, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator, will start the first class by discussing meal plans and diabetes and reviewing carbohydrate counting. Her presentation will include cooking tips, menu planning, dining out guidelines, glucose monitoring, and dietary management for glucose control.
Feb. 17: Elaine Drew, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator, will provide an overview of diabetes, the disease process, treatment options, and high blood sugar, including dangerously high blood sugar. She will discuss the medications that can help control symptoms. Diabetic foot care and diabetic neuropathy will be part of the discussion. Karen Bogdon, an occupational therapist, will also speak about the importance of daily exercise and how it can help improve blood sugar levels, decrease weight, and improve overall well-being.
Feb. 20: Thomas Gordon, an optometrist, will discuss eye care and diabetes, including cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. This class will also cover other topics, including lab tests, possible complications, psychosocial adjustment, goal setting and problem solving, as well as preventing, detecting and treating acute complications such as low blood sugar.
Pre-registration and pre-assessment is required for all of those attending. A dietary consultation is required, and should be done before the classes begin. Following sign up, participants will receive a class guidebook.
Medicaid, Medicare, and most insurance plans cover the course registration fee.
To schedule an appointment for dietary consultation, call Linda Russell at 647-6062.
Participants are encouraged to bring a relative or a friend with them. For more information about the program, or to register, call 647-6064.
The classes will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Bridgton Hospital.
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