The Colorado River Indian Tribes/Department of Health and Social Services Special Diabetes Program is a community-based diabetes management program focused on Physical Activity and DM Education. Beyond the goals and objectives, the program will target individuals 20-44 years old living with diabetes who live within the exterior boundaries of the reservation. This age group contains the individuals who need to engage in the program, in order to address the physical activity portion of their diabetes treatment plan. The local Indian Health Service medical personnel will address the medical issues associated with diabetes leaving a need for the physical activities. CRIT SDPI offers a great series of activities in their workout facilities from exercise machines to exercise groups, runs, walks, and more. The program will also continue to offer a diabetes education component which includes nutrition and critical information on diabetes management.
The program enjoys partnerships with a host of partners including the other eight human service programs under the auspices of DHSS; WIC, CHR, Senior Citizens, Alcohol Substance Abuse Program, Behavioral Health Services, Food Distribution Program, Social Services, and First Things First. Additional partners include the local Indian Health Service Unit, as well other tribal programs.
Anticipated benefits as a result of participation in the program will include an increase in the number of diabetics being served. The goal is to reach those individuals between the ages of 20-44 and increase their knowledge of the benefits of physical activity while living with diabetes and incorporating a healthier lifestyle. Research shows it takes approximately three years to make a change in a culture; this includes eating and exercise habits. The participation in the CRIT SDP activities has been steady with greater numbers showing for the big events. At this point, those who have made a commitment to improving their health have regular attendance. The main benefit will be a lessened effect of diabetes on the CRIT community.