Upper Darby Township Senior Center offers free blood pressure screenings
National Heart Month was created by the American Heart Association, and it is no shock it is in February, a month known for pink and heart heart-shaped cutouts, Valentines, and cupid’s arrows. However, the designated month is intended to cue those of all ages into the risks for cardiovascular disease and incidents.
But at the Upper Darby Township Senior Center, the celebration will look a bit different. Instead of gushy, loving poems, chocolate candies, and bunches of flowers, they’ll be enjoying the month by helping others.
“Stop by on Tuesdays for a complimentary blood pressure reading provided by a Widener University nursing student,” said a Facebook post by the Upper Darby Township Senior Center.
Blood pressure is directly related to your chances for cardiovascular disease and risks for incidents. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, a million people were followed in order to study the correlation between blood pressure and CV risk.
The study states that incidents can occur with blood pressure rates “as low as 115 mmHg SBP and 75 mmHg DBP upward.”
“The increased risks are present in individuals ranging from 40 to 89 years of age,” said the study, last updated in 2016. “For every 20 mmHg systolic or 10 mmHg diastolic increase in BP, there is a doubling of mortality from both IHD and stroke.”
If you aren’t sure of your pressure, or have been instructed by medical professionals to monitor it closely, you can stop by the Senior Center for assistance this month. Screenings are still available on Tuesdays, including Feb. 10, 17, and 24. Any person can come in from 10 a.m. to noon for the free screening.
“Take a step toward protecting your heart health,” said the Center’s post. Those of all ages are welcome to join the Center at 326 Watkins Ave., in Upper Darby, PA 19082. For more information, call 610‑734‑7652.
