As a leader in preventative health care,
As a leader in preventative health care,
Lisa O’Connor
Wellness Director
Director of Evidence Based Health Initiatives
203.775.4444 x 135
loconnor@regionalymca.org
One in three American adults has high blood pressure, which puts them at heightened risk of stroke and heart disease, two of the leading causes of death in the U.S.
In response to this critical health care issue, the YMCA offers its Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program, an evidence-based program that features personalized support as participants develop the habit of monitoring their blood pressure. Research shows that the process of recording blood pressure at least twice a month over a period of four months has been shown to lower blood pressure in many people with high blood pressure.
Participants work with trained Healthy Heart Ambassadors for the duration of the four-month program.
Take the quiz below and find out!
Lisa O’Connor
Wellness Director
Director of Evidence Based Health Initiatives
203.775.4444 x 135
Measurable progress, unlimited support. Pre-diabetes is a potentially reversible condition that often leads to Type II diabetes, and 86 million people in the United States are estimated to have it. If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, or believe you may be at risk for developing the disease, the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program can help you develop a healthier lifestyle.
As a leading nonprofit for strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the Y believes that all people should be able to live life to its fullest, healthiest potential. In the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program a trained lifestyle coach will introduce topics in a small classroom setting and encourage participants as they explore how healthy eating, physical activity, and behavior changes can benefit their health.
During the program participants will discuss topics such as healthy eating, increasing physical activity, reducing stress, problem-solving, and much more.
Lisa O’Connor
Wellness Director
Director of Evidence Based Health Initiatives
203.775.4444 x 135
The Aging Mastery® Program (AMP) is a partnership with the National Council on Aging. The AMP Program is delivered over 11 weekly meetings lasting 1½ hours each session. AMP incorporates evidence-informed materials, expert speakers, group discussion, peer support, and small rewards to give participants the skills and tools to achieve measurable improvements.The program encourages mastery of sustainable behaviors that will lead to improved health, stronger financial security, and overall well-being.
Preliminary results have shown that older adults in the program significantly increased their: social connectedness, physical activity levels, healthy eating habits, use of advanced planning, participation in evidence-based programs, adoption of several other healthy behaviors.
Program enrollment includes a wire bound curriculum book, journal, rewritable memo board, graduation pins and program prizes. Cost to register in the program is $60.00.
“I was reminded that it was important to feel and express gratitude each day, and I have tried to make this part of my morning routine.”
“I developed a more positive acceptance of both my past and future.”
“This program was very uplifting. I learned that the aging process can be done gracefully. I am working on a plan for the future to share with my family.”
“Dr. Mendez saved my life, I followed one of his recommendations and I’m finally sleeping better.”
Debbie Nichols
Physical Director
203.775.4444 x 136
EnhanceFitness focuses on dynamic cardiovascular exercise, strength training, balance, and flexibility—everything older adults need to maintain health and function as they age. This program is a perfect off-site program for older adults living in our community. This CDC Evidenced Based Program runs for 16 weeks. Participants meet 1 hour three times per week.
Participants’ progress is measured through fitness checks completed at the time the individual first joins EnhanceFitness, then every four months.
“My participation in the fitness program is motivating everyone else in my house to exercise, my daughter and my granddaughter included. I guess they all figure if that old lady can do it, so can I.” — Ruthie
“We really enjoy the music and dance routines, it makes us feel like we are on Dancing with the Stars” — Omie
“So far I haven’t missed one class. I look forward to coming. I do what I can and I’m having so much fun.” — Mary
Debbie Nichols
Physical Director
203.775.4444 x 136