AN EDUCATION SESSION AT THE WELLNESS CENTRE FOCUSED ON EMPOWERING CLIENTS TO MAKE THE BEST LIFESTYLE CHOICE IN ORDER TO MANAGE THEIR DISEASE
In observance of Diabetes Awareness Month, the Ti Rocher Castries Wellness Centre took the opportunity to undertake activities as part of its clinic, geared towards providing awareness to clients on fostering healthy habits and managing Diabetes. An education session at the Wellness Centre focused on empowering clients to make the best lifestyle choice in order to manage their disease. Participants were provided with free nutrition education sessions, health screenings, and eye examinations, creating a holistic approach to diabetes prevention and care.
Community Health Nurse Alicia Baptiste of the Ti Rocher Castries Wellness Centre emphasized on the need for individuals to make informed lifestyle changes to effectively prevent and manage diabetes. “For us to change lifestyle we have to educate and so today we decided on having this activity where we can educate our clients on portion sizes. Because something clients ask, what do we eat? So we are here to show them that they can have everything but in moderation. When we looked at it there are other services that the Diabetics and Hypertensives also need, so we ensured that we had an ophthalmologist here so clients can check their eyes, we also have our doctor and pharmacists we will also have some exercises being done, so it’s a wholesome care for the clients.”
Nurse Baptiste also made note of the observation that Saint Lucians are eager for information that can help them maintain their health. She urged the community to make use of local wellness centres, where they can access a range of free health services. “I would advise our clients to visit their wellness centre, get the advice from your nurse. We have nutritionists, pharmacists and doctors. Visit your wellness centre within your areas and get the information because with information you are on the path to changing your life.”
Participant of the activity Sharon Valcyn expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to receive free health screenings. She also highlighted her appreciation not only for the
essential health services provided but also for the valuable knowledge gained to support
her well-being. “It’s very good, because of how they instruct you to eat your meals in healthy portion with a little portion of everything. So now I will do the same thing
because I would eat a lot of food but now I know what to do, so I will take it from there.”
Through activities like this one, health officials hope to empower Saint Lucians with the tools they need to live healthier lives, ultimately reducing the impact of diabetes across the nation.