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With the coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions, the Life! program had to quickly adapt so group courses could continue. The team developed digital program resources and supported the workforce of 170 health professionals to run the program sessions online through Zoom.
The Life! program is a healthy lifestyle program for people at risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It is run by Diabetes Victoria and funded by the Victorian Government. Participants learn about nutrition, physical activity, sleep and managing stress, and can choose from a group course or telephone health coaching.
There have been many positives, with some participants really embracing the online learning experience and facilitators being able to gain new skills and connect with people from across Victoria. There have also been challenges, from participants struggling with technology to facilitators finding it tricky to manage group dynamics on Zoom. However, these challenges were easily overcome and were outweighed by the positive program experience that participants have had.
It is anticipated that online delivery will continue to be a feature of the Life! program, and Diabetes Victoria is capturing learnings that can be used to continue to improve the program in the future.
Through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Life! program remains committed to helping Victorians achieve their health goals and to live a healthier and more active life.
Learn more about the Life! program here.