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Free Blood Pressure Clinics
GREATER MEDFORD VNA & ADDITIONAL CARE: Free Blood Pressure Clinics
The Greater Medford VNA & Additional Care located in Medford, MA offers free “Blood Pressure Clinics” to all seniors in the surrounding community. Blood pressure clinics are being offered at the following places: Everett Senior Center, Meadow Glen Mall, Medford Council on Aging, St. Anne’s Church in Somerville, Stoneham Senior Center and West Medford Community Center. Please call GMVNA at (781) 396-2633 or visit our website calendar at www.gmvna.org for more information regarding the clinic times and dates.
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Your blood pressure changes throughout the day. It is usually lowest when you are sleeping and it rises when you are awake. It can also rise when you are excited, nervous, or active.
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What is a normal reading? A blood pressure reading consists of 2 figures: The top one is your systolic pressure (pressure in the vessels during a heartbeat) and the bottom is your diastolic pressure (pressure as the heart rests between beats). For the elderly, as with the rest of the population, a blood pressure reading below 120/80 mmHg is considered normal. In general, lower is better. However, very low blood pressure can sometimes be a cause for concern and should be checked out by a doctor.
What causes high blood pressure? There are several factors that can lead to high blood pressure. Some factors we can control while others like family history leave us predisposed to high blood pressure and heart disease. Following a heart healthy diet that is low in sodium, fat and cholesterol is recommended. Exercise and a healthy weight also play an important role in a healthy heart. 30 minutes of exercise at least three times a week and keeping low stress levels are also recommended. No smoking and minimal alcohol consumption are highly advised.
Remember, the most important step you can take in controlling your blood pressure is to have it checked often! So stop by the clinic and have Mary Napoli, a registered nurse with the Greater Medford VNA & Additional Care, help monitor and track your blood pressure for free!
