Living with high blood pressure can be a challenging experience, but with our BP self-monitoring program, we aim to provide you with the tools and support you need to stay on track and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular monitoring of your blood pressure is key to managing this condition effectively. Our program offers a convenient and user-friendly way for you to track your blood pressure readings at home. With the help of a reliable blood pressure monitor, you can easily measure your blood pressure and record the results. This information is essential for both you and your healthcare provider to evaluate the effectiveness of your treatment plan and make any necessary adjustments. Alongside the monitoring device, we provide educational resources and guidance to help you understand the factors that can affect your blood pressure and how to make positive lifestyle changes. Our program aims to empower you with knowledge and support, enabling you to take control of your health and make informed decisions. With regular monitoring, you can better manage your high blood pressure and minimize the associated risks, leading to an improved quality of life.

Blood Pressure Self Monitoring

The YMCA Blood Pressure Self Monitoring Program is a valuable initiative that aims to empower individuals to take control of their heart health. This program provides participants with the tools and knowledge they need to monitor their blood pressure in the comfort of their own homes. The YMCA provides participants with a blood pressure monitor, as well as personalized support and guidance from trained staff members.

What is High blood pressure?
High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) is when the force of your blood pushing against the walls of
your blood vessels is always too high.
How your blood pressure and circulatory system work?
To survive, your tissues and organs need the blood carrying oxygen throughout the body. When the heart beats, it creates pressure that pushes blood through a network of blood vessels, which include arteries, veins and capillaries. This pressure – blood pressure – is the result of two forces, each represented by numbers in your blood pressure reading: the first force (systolic pressure) occurs as blood pumps out of the heart and into the arteries. The second force (diastolic pressure) is created as the heart rests between heart beats.
The damage starts in your arteries and heart
The main way high blood pressure causes harm is by increasing the workload of the heart and blood vessels making them work harder and less efficiently. Over time, the force and friction of high blood pressure damages the delicate tissues inside the arteries.

Why Should you check your Blood Pressure?

One in three American adults has high blood pressure, which puts them at risk for stroke and heart disease, two of the leading causes of death in the U.S.

In response to this critical health issue, YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program offers personalized support as participants develop the habit of monitoring their blood pressure. Research shows that the process of recording blood pressure at least twice a month over a period of four months can lower blood pressure in many people with high blood pressure.

Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring is one part of Y-USA’s suite of evidence-based chronic disease prevention programs. Since 2005, the Y has worked to become a leading provider of chronic disease prevention programs to communities across the U.S.

Participants will:

• Take and record their blood pressure at least two times per month
• Attend two consultations a month with a Healthy Heart Ambassador
• Attend 4 monthly nutrition education seminars
• Attend two consultations with an HHA at the Lake Otis location
  

  Fees

  Free for Members (includes BP cuff)
  **If you are not a member and are interested in this program please check out our Stronger For Life reduced fee membership.

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