American Heart
Month
Cardiovascular disease is prevalent in our society,
disproportionately impacting older Americans. According to the American
Heart Association, more than 85 million American adults have one of more
types of cardiovascular disease. Of these, more than 43 million
(approximately half) are age 60 or older.
Across the country, ACL partner organizations are hosting educational
events in recognition of American Heart Month. In Georgia, Open Hand
Atlanta offers a tailored nutrition-focused heart health class at local
senior centers throughout the month of February. In Utah, Salt Lake County Aging
and Adult Services is promoting American Heart Month by providing
opportunities for blood pressure screening and a heart health presentation
in each of their 16 senior centers. Additionally, the senior centers are
encouraging older adults to attend at least three physical activity
programs, including evidence-based interventions such as EnhanceFitness,
Tai Chi for Arthritis, and the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program. And
in New Jersey at the West Windsor Senior Center, older adults can participate
in carotid artery and blood pressure screenings, as well as ongoing
physical activity programs.
ACL also supports the delivery of evidence-based chronic disease self-management education programs
(CDSME) in communities across the country. CDSME programs provide older
adults and adults with disabilities with education and tools to help them
better manage chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease. More
than 383,000 individuals have participated in these impactful interventions
since 2010. The most common chronic condition reported by program
participants is hypertension (41%), and one-third of participants reported
having high cholesterol. Further, 13% of participants reported a diagnosis
of heart disease, and 5% indicated having had a stroke.
Visit healthfinder.gov to learn how you can
spread the word about American Heart Month.
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