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 and stroke, which are two of the leading causes of death in the United States.

The Y designed the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program to help adults with hypertension lower and manage their blood pressure. The four-month program focuses on regular home self-monitoring of one’s blood pressure using proper measuring techniques, individualized support, and group-based nutrition education for better blood pressure management. With the support from a trained Healthy Heart Ambassador, participants:

  • Measure and record their blood pressure at least two times per month, gaining increased awareness of triggers that impact blood pressure readings 
  • Learn how to properly measure their blood pressure 
  • Attend two personalized consultations per month 
  • Attend monthly Nutrition Education Seminars

WHO QUALIFIES?

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be diagnosed with high blood pressure
  • NOT have experienced a recent cardiac event
  • NOT have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias
  • NOT be at risk for lymphedema

Email [email protected] with questions or submit your interest here to get started.

ENROLLING NOW FOR PROGRAMS AT:
Central YMCA, 1717 The Alameda, San Jose
Palo Alto Family YMCA, 3412 Ross Rd, Palo Alto
Southwest YMCA, 13500 Quito Rd, Saratoga

PROGRAM COST:
YMCA Members – Program participation is included with membership; $40 if blood pressure cuff is needed
Non YMCA Member – $120 per 4-month participation; additional $40 if blood pressure cuff is needed.

PROGRAM OFFICE HOURS:
Consultations are available by appointment during the following days/times.

Central YMCA Palo Alto Family YMCA Southwest YMCA
Mon 1pm - 2:30pm Tues 6pm - 7pm Tues 12:45pm - 2pm
Tues 5:30pm - 6:30pm Thurs 11am - 12:30pm Thurs 5pm - 6pm
Sat 10am - 11:30am Sun 11:30am - 1pm Sat 9am - 10:30am

NUTRITION EDUCATION SEMINARS:
Monthly seminars are open to all members and the community. 

In Person Seminar Topics

Central YMCA
Small Gym
Wed 12:30pm - 1:30pm 

Palo Alto Family YMCA
MultiPurpose Room
Thurs 12pm - 1pm
 

Southwest YMCA
Kitchen
Tues 12:45pm – 1:45pm
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension March 27 March 28 March 26
Reducing Sodium Intake April 24 April 25 April 23
Shopping, Cooking and Preparing Food for Better Blood Pressure Management May 29 May 30 May 28
Heart Healthy Eating for Life June 26 June 27 June 25

 

The Nutrition Education Seminars will also be offered virtually on Zoom. Click to register.

Zoom Seminar Topics

Zoom
Wed 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension April 3
Reducing Sodium Intake May 1
Shopping, Cooking and Preparing Food for Better Blood Pressure Management June 5
Heart Healthy Eating for Life July 10

 

GET STARTED TODAY

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and/or are on antihypertensive medication, take action by completing this intake and qualification form.