Take Action to Improve Your Heart Health
According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 million adults in this country have high blood pressure and less than half have it under control. High blood pressure, or hypertension, 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. It is a key, modifiable, risk factor for both heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the United States.
The Y's Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program is designed for adults with hypertension to help boost their heart health by establishing consistent blood pressure monitoring routines, teaching improved eating habits, and promoting healthier lifestyle choices. With the support of a trained Healthy Heart Ambassador, participants will gain the tools needed to manage and reduce their blood pressure.
Practical Tools for a Healthier Heart
The Y is committed to helping you reach your heart health goals through sustainable habits by teaching you to:
Measure Pressure Consistently
Learn best practices to accurately measure and record your blood pressure and track trends over time to lower your risk of heart disease.
Identify Unhealthy Triggers
Sodium and stress both contribute to elevated blood pressure. Learn to identify and control these and other unhealthy triggers.
Adopt Healthier Habits
Diet, exercise, and lack of rest can all adversely affect blood pressure. Learn about the DASH diet, SMART goals, and other healthy habits.
“This program has helped so many to realize how important normal blood pressure is. As a result of my participation, I am making better eating choices and have lowered my blood pressure drastically. I’ve been told I may be able to come off my medications within six weeks if my progress continues.”
~ Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program Participant
Program Overview
This virtual, cohort-based program is open to adults 18+ that have been diagnosed with hypertension (high blood pressure) and meets weekly for 16 sessions.
A trained Healthy Heart Ambassador will moderate the discussions via Microsoft Teams. Topics include:
- Effective and accurate blood pressure monitoring
- Making better choices to manage blood pressure
- Setting individualized goals
Participants also have access to free weekly virtual healthy cooking demonstrations.
Upcoming Programs & Registration
The program fee is $175 for Y Members or $250 for Community Members. Financial assistance is available.
Learn More
To inquire about an upcoming program or be put on an interest list for future programs, please schedule a call, email chronicdiseaseprevention@seattleymca.org, call (206) 432-8904, or fill out the contact us form below. You may also download our referral form to refer yourself or get a doctor's referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the Y's Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program?
Adults diagnosed with hypertension and/or have been prescribed medication for high blood pressure. You are NOT eligible for this program if you have:
- Experienced a cardiac event in the last 12 months (defined by participant)
- Atrial fibrillation/arrhythmias (irregular or slow/fast heart rhythm)
- Lymphedema (swelling in the arms and legs)
What is a cohort?
A cohort is a group of individuals (8-10 for this program) who have a common characteristic and are registered for the same program.
What can participants expect as a result of joining this program?
Upon completion of the 16-week program, participant outcomes may include one or more of the following:
- Consistent blood pressure measurement routines
- Reduction in blood pressure
- New skills to manage blood pressure
- Ability to identify and control triggers that elevate blood pressure
- More confidence in ability to adopt healthier eating habits
What equipment do participants need to participate?
- Internet connected device (phone, tablet, or computer) with a video camera, speaker, and microphone
- At-home blood pressure cuff
If a participant does not have access to a device or internet, they may be added to an interest list for in-person programming scheduled to begin in 2022 by contacting us through the form below.
Where can I purchase an at-home blood pressure cuff?
Participants may purchase a blood pressure cuff from the YMCA during the registration process or from an alternative source such as your local drug store, pharmacy, or online vendor. Cuff is required prior to the program start date.
Who will have access to participants blood pressure readings?
Participants will demonstrate and report blood pressure readings one-on-one to the Healthy Heart Ambassador leading the cohort. Program Supervisors may also review reported readings for program success measures. Readings will not be disclosed to other program participants.
How is participant privacy protected?
Participants will receive a privacy practice notice for their review upon registration. Healthy Heart Ambassadors record the reported blood pressure reading information into a HIPAA-secure platform called WELLD.
What are the expected participant commitments?
- Attend weekly virtual group meetings over the course of 16 weeks.
- Take and record blood pressure once per week.
- Report blood pressure readings to Healthy Heart Ambassador in a timely manner each week.
- Seek immediate medical attention if blood pressure reaches dangerous levels.
Do participants need to be a Y member to participate in this program?
No, both Y members and community members who meet the criteria above are eligible and encouraged to participate.
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