GREENFIELD — With rates of high blood pressure on the rise, Franklin County’s YMCA is offering a virtual program to help residents get their blood pressure under control as a way to decrease their risk of heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death in the United States.
“At this time of self-isolation, Franklin County’s Y is proud to provide a free virtual community version of the YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program,” explained Jayne Trosin, YMCA fitness director.
Open to the community, the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program is designed to help participants with hypertension lower their blood pressure by following an evidence-based program that combines blood pressure self-monitoring, nutrition education seminars and personalized support, according to a YMCA press release. This program is offered at no cost virtually or in person at the YMCA, as well as at the South County Senior Center in South Deerfield and at Greenfield Acres on Congress Street.
“Through our virtual programming, we are meeting community needs, improving health and promoting virtual connection to those at home,” Trosin said.
According to the press release, participants must be 18 years old or older, be diagnosed with high blood pressure, have not experienced a recent cardiac event, not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias, and not be at risk for lymphedema.
“Our goal is to reduce participants’ blood pressure, improve blood pressure management and increase awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure,” Trosin said.
Enrollment is open through the month of February. For more information or to sign up, visit the YMCA at 451 Main St. or contact Jayne Trosin at 413-773-3646, ext. 448 or jtrosin@your-y.org.