News and

Upcoming Events

Recurring AAA Events 

Georgia Crisis and Access Line

1-800-715-4225

Are you seeking help and information related to mental illnesses, drug/alcohol addiction, or developmental disabilities? Whether you need to get help in a crisis, access services, or find long-term support, the Georgia Crisis and Access Line is available for you, your family, friends and clients. Click here for more information.

Considering College Education?

It's never too late to pursue higher education. If you are considering attending college for the first time or returning, the following resources might be of help to you:

Columbus State University, Georgia Southwestern State University, Fort Valley State University, Albany State University, South Georgia Technical College, Columbus Technical College

Living with Diabetes

When you are first diagnosed with diabetes, you have a lot of questions. The American Diabetes Association offers "Living with Type 2 Diabetes," a free-12-month program for people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Members choose to get their information online or in the mail, in English on Spanish. Click here for more information. 

The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) has made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this website. However, the information is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. AAA does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information provided.

No warranties, promises and/or representations of any kind, expressed or implied, are given as to the nature, standard, accuracy of the information provided in this website, nor to the suitability of the information to your particular circumstances.

AAA does not recommend or endorse any of the products or services described in this website, or the equipment or suppliers whose information is provided.

AAA is a service of River Valley Regional Commission public agency of the State of Georgia created and existing pursuant to O.C.G.A. Sections 50 – 8 – 30, et seq.

Chronic Disease Self Management

What is CDSMP? 
CDSMP is an evidence-based program that was developed from a research grant in 1996 at the Stanford University School of Medicine.  The program goal is to help individuals with chronic conditions, or those who know anyone who does have a chronic condition, to learn to effectively manage their conditions in order to live healthier lives. In the workshop, participants learn to structure “action plans” in order to achieve goals and solve problems. Being an active manager of one’s condition is the key to living well and feeling better.

How is CDSMP implemented?
CDSMP is facilitated as a 6-week workshop. Sessions are scheduled once a week, for 2.5 hours per session. The lecturette-style curriculum is facilitated by two certified Lay Leaders, who either have chronic conditions or know someone who does.

Benefits of CDSMP CDSMP is beneficial in terms of cost effectiveness as well as health improvement. Studies have shown the following:

-According to the National Council on Aging, an estimated $714 per person is saved from individuals requiring fewer hospital/emergency room visits after having participated in a CDSMP workshop.

-Two years after workshop participation, an estimated $590 had been saved from patients requiring fewer hospital stays and outpatient visits for a group of 831 participants, aged 40 and older.

-Overall, program participants have reported that they have experienced a multitude of health improvements that include, but are not limited to:

• Reduced levels of stress
• Better exercise habits
• More energy
• Less fatigue
• Improved disability management
• Reduced anxiety and depression
• Fewer hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and outpatient visits

CDSMP significance to Workplace Wellness
We live in a time in which a correlation exists between rising health costs and rising rates of health conditions. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), 75% of national health care costs are attributed to chronic disease rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), poor health among employees can lead to significant health costs for organizations. The example of chronic condition costs provided by the CDC is that of obesity rates in the workplace and how such rates result in rising costs:  “Obesity and related chronic diseases cost employers up to $93 billion per year in health insurance claims.” Chronic health conditions can also impact employee morale and productivity. If employees do not feel well in a chronic sense, their workplace performance will likely follow the same pattern.

For more information or to schedule a workshop, call Ilona Preattle or Franetta Miles at 706-256-2910 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Lay Leader Training

The River Valley Agency on Aging offers Lay Leader Training for people interested in learning to lead a CDSMP workshop for their communities.

Links of Interest

National Council on Aging CDSMP information

Stanford School of Medicine CDSMP program

Sources for information on this page: National Council on Aging, Centers for Disease Control, Stanford School of Medicine

Advisory Council

The River Valley Area Agency on Agency staff participates in the Regional Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) Advisory Council.

Aging and Disability Resource Connection Advisory Council
The ADRC Advisory Council meets quarterly.