Recognizing American Heart Month in the Poconos

American Heart Month has been observed every February since 1964. It serves as a nationwide observance that highlights cardiovascular disease and promotes cardiovascular health.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. According to the CDC, in 2023, almost 1 in every 4 deaths in the US was caused by heart disease. The leading cause of heart disease is high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts against the walls of your arteries. The US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) showed that 70% of older adults over 65 years of age have hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.

At Griswold Home Care for the Poconos, we’re passionate about helping seniors stay healthy and independent at home. This February, we want to focus on heart health and share practical ways you can protect your heart year-round.

Whether you’re looking for heart-healthy lifestyle tips, local screening resources, or support at home, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Protect Your Heart

The American Heart Association provides its recommended Life’s Essential 8, covering essential health behaviors and health factors. Here’s a breakdown of the Life’s Essential 8:

1. Eat Better: Aim for fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole foods.
2. Be More Active: Make it a habit to exercise regularly.
3. Quit Tobacco: Avoid all inhaled nicotine products, especially cigarettes.
4. Get Healthy Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep as it can improve healing, brain function, and reduce your risk.
5. Manage Weight: Maintain a healthy weight and consult a healthcare professional to check your body mass index.
6. Control Cholesterol: High levels of non-HDL cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.
7. Manage Blood Sugar: Keep blood glucose levels in a healthy range with regular monitoring.
8. Manage Blood Pressure: Keep blood pressure within an acceptable range of less than 120/80 mmHg.

The American Heart Association offers a free online tool called My Life Check that helps you evaluate your heart health in just a few minutes.

Local Resources in the Poconos

Understanding your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels is one of the most important steps you can take for your heart health. Here are ways to get screened in the Poconos:

Get Screened

Getting your blood pressure checked is easier than you might think. Most local pharmacies, such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Walmart in Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, offer free blood pressure checks. Stop by and ask a pharmacist during business hours.

For more comprehensive screenings, including cholesterol and blood sugar, talk to your primary care doctor. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono also provides comprehensive cardiac care and diagnostic services for the community. Check their Facebook page for upcoming free health screenings at their events. A quick check today could help you prevent serious problems tomorrow.

Learn CPR and Be Prepared

CPR training can save a life. If you or a loved one is interested in learning this vital skill, visit the American Heart Association website to find a class nearby or access their training kits and resources. Being prepared can mean you’re ready to make a difference when it matters most.

How Griswold Home Care Can Help

Taking care of your heart is easier when you have the right support at home. Our Griswold Caregivers help seniors throughout the Poconos maintain heart-healthy lifestyles.

We make sure medications are taken on time and provide transportation to doctor appointments, cardiac screenings, and follow-ups, so important check-ups never get missed. Our Caregivers can prepare nutritious, heart-healthy meals tailored to your dietary needs to support low-cholesterol cooking.

We’re also there to encourage daily activity, joining you on walks, helping you stay mobile, and supporting the exercise routine your doctor recommends. Our team can track vital signs like blood pressure and weight, keeping family members and healthcare providers informed of any changes. Discover the full list of our care services here.

Contact Us

Let Griswold Home Care for the Poconos provide the assistance you need to live independently at home while prioritizing your heart. Call us today to learn more about our services and schedule a free consultation!