Posted on: Monday, January 15th, 2024
FEBRUARY IS HEART HEALTH MONTH
February is American Heart Health Month. It’s a great time to understand your risk for high blood pressure and heart disease and make some important life changes for a long healthy life.
According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 million adults have high blood pressure in this country. Less than half have it under control. High blood pressure is most prevalent in racial and ethnic minority populations, and is often referred to as “The Silent Killer” because there are typically no warning signs or symptoms. High blood pressure is a key, modifiable risk factor for both heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and dementia. Many forms of heart disease, including hypertension, are highly preventable.
This month and all year round, we encourage our members and the community to learn more about 2 of our Y’s Healthy Heart Programs.
- Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program (BPSMP)
- Heart Strong: Post Cardiac Rehab Program
We also invite folks to stop by 1 of our branch locations this month to attend a free blood pressure screening and to learn about blood pressure management and strategies.
Free Blood Pressure Readings & Blood Pressure Self Monitoring Program Information in February
AT OUR FOXBORO Y:
- Monday, 2/26: 9:15am-10:15am
AT OUR FRANKLIN Y:
- Monday, 2/12: 9:30am-10:30am
AT OUR NORTH ATTLEBORO Y:
- Wednesday, 2/7: 9:30am-10:30am
- Wednesday, 2/21: 9:30am-10:30am
- Tuesday, 2/27: 4:00pm-5:00pm
BLOOD PRESSURE SELF-MONITORING PROGRAM (BPSMP)
Learn more about the risk for heart disease by getting a blood pressure reading. Ask a medical provider if you are at risk and take action to reduce your risk. Long-term adherence to lifestyle modifications and medication treatment can be challenging, many studies have focused on the potential of self-monitoring as a tool for blood pressure management. In an effort to address these issues, the Y designed an evidence-based, self-monitoring program aimed to help participants better manage their blood pressure. This program emphasizes that self-monitoring and tracking of individuals’ blood pressure can play a significant role in reducing one’s blood pressure and improving their quality of life.
Our YMCA is a provider of the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program which supports individuals with hypertension to lower their blood pressure by following an evidence-based program that combines blood pressure self-monitoring, nutrition education and personalized support. The YMCA of the USA developed this program to help individuals better manage hypertension and improve their overall health. Less than half of all Americans living with hypertension have it under control. Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure in some people with hypertension. In addition, evidence shows that proper nutrition, particularly with a reduction in sodium intake, may help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
Enrollments are currently being accepted from February through May of 2024 for our Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program. People who enroll during February through May will receive:
- The program valued at $150 for only $50
- A blood pressure cuff/monitor (valued at $40)
- Heart healthy recipes and education
How the program works:
Participants will work with trained Healthy Heart Ambassadors over an 8-week session to:
- Self-measure their blood pressure
- Attend 2 personalized consultations
- Attend nutrition education seminars
- Record blood pressure readings using a self selected tool
Program Goals:
- Reduction in blood pressure
- Improved blood pressure management
- Increased awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure
- Enhanced knowledge to develop healthier eating habits
To learn more about our program or to register, click here. You may also call us at 508-643-5271 or email donnah@hockymca.org to ask questions and schedule a consultation.
HEART STRONG: POST CARDIAC REHAB PROGRAM
Heart Strong, our Post Cardiac Rehab Program, is a 12-week program designed to support individuals who have participated in a medically supervised cardiac rehabilitation program and want to continue to maintain optimal heart and vascular health through exercise.
This program helps individuals continue with their prescribed exercises with the care and support of YMCA trainers and instructors.
What are the benefits?
- Exercise with confidence
- Small group setting
- Social support
- Fully supervised
What is included?
- Small group support
- Experienced trainers and instructors
- Weekly 1-hour sessions for 12 weeks
- Free YMCA membership for enrolled participants and full use of all Hockomock Area YMCA branches for the program’s duration.
Cost: $100 for YMCA Members / $150 for Nonmembers
Enrolling now for upcoming classes! For more information and to register, email donnah@hockymca.org Donna Higgins, Prescription for a Healthy Lifestyle Coordinator, or call 508-643-5271.
