We are no longer funded to offer this program. However, the resources on these pages may still be valuable to Kansans with disabilities and service providers, and the history of this program in our state is rich.
The premise of Living Well with a Disability is:
The healthier we are, the more we're able to do the things we want in life.
This health promotion workshop for people with disabilities and chronic health conditions helps people build the skills for a healthy lifestyle. Goal setting and problem solving are presented as the framework for developing new habits.
In Kansas, the course was offered through community-based organizations. Staff members at Kansas centers for independent living and other community groups were trained to be facilitators. Click here to see a few of these facilitators.
Here's an introduction to the program Kansas offered (on YouTube):
Evidence-Based Results
The Living Well program is very effective. In the research phase of the program, more than 1,000 individuals in 32 states completed the workshop, with these results:
- A 37% decrease in limitation due to secondary conditions
- A significant decrease in depression levels.
- A 10% decline in costs for medical service