AUSTIN, December 8, 2023 – High blood pressure continues to be a significant source of concern for the health of Central Texans with over 27% of the adults experiencing the condition. Seniors are even more likely to develop the hypertension due to age-related stiffening of the major arteries. To address this issue within older adults, the American Heart Association, the leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives for all, worked with Meals on Wheels Central Texas to pilot blood pressure stations in three of their fifteen senior centers in Travis County.
The stations at the Creedmoor, Durwood and Oak Hill centers includes a blood pressure cuff, instructions for self-monitoring blood pressure, educational materials and a referral QR code that links to nearby Federally Qualified Health Center locations as part of a larger Screen, Educate & Refer initiative.
“We are relentlessly focused on improving the health of our Central Texas residents,” said Kelsey Williams, community impact director for the American Heart Association. “Hypertension rates play a large roll in life expectancy. Initiatives such as this allows us to reach residents at the highest risk.”
“We are so very excited to be partnering with the American Heart Association to get blood pressure cuffs and self-monitoring resources at a few of our sites,” said Lexi Stewart, congregate social recreation supervisor with Meals on Wheels. “These cuffs will help the participants monitor and stay on track of their blood pressure so they can keep living a healthy lifestyle.”
Hypertension is a serious health issue in the United States with more than 100 million Americans with some level of hypertension. The second leading cause of preventable death according to the CDC, high blood pressure will cost more than $200 billion annually in direct and indirect expenses by 2035.
Unfortunately, the pandemic led to disruptions in care and shined a light on health disparities leading to lower rates of controlled blood pressure. The Association’s Screen, Educate & Refer program has a goal of improving high blood pressure control in the community, empowering individuals to know their numbers while encouraging additional care when needed. Contact Community Impact Director Kelsey Williams at kelsey.williams@heart.org to learn more about self-managed blood pressure opportunities in Austin.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Megan Jameson: 512-639-4366; megan.jameson@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org