Groton — The Ledge Light Health District announced Tuesday that it has received a $32,000 grant from the state Department of Public Health to prevent chronic disease.

A portion of the grant will be used to implement a science-based program designed to help adults living with diabetes, or for those caring for someone with diabetes to take charge of their disease, the health district said in a news release.

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular-related death in this country, and can lead to irreversible changes in vision, kidney function, circulation and the ability to fight infection.

Ledge Light’s Live Well with Diabetes Program will focus on diet and exercise, glucose monitoring, goal setting, sick day guidelines, communicating with family and health care providers and making small changes to improve health, the health district said.

It will entail a free, six-week Live Well with Diabetes program at the Groton Senior Center beginning from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 8.

The program is open to adults of all ages with diabetes, their caregiver and partners. Physicians and pharmacists are encouraged to refer their patients.

“What participants tell us, is not only are they better able to manage their own diabetes, they feel better and benefit from the support of others who are dealing with the same concerns,” said Cindy Barry, senior program coordinator.

Ledge Light is offering the program in partnership with Senior Resources.

A second Live Well program will be sponsored by the Waterford Senior Center in the spring.

Pre-registration is required. For information or to register, contact the Groton Senior Center at (860) 441-6785.