Free Virtual Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
Following reports of decreased physical activity due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, The Gateway Family YMCA expands access to free virtual community chronic disease self-management programs. Getting help can be as easy as contacting the Y and taking part in a free virtual chronic disease self-management program.
The Gateway Family YMCA encourages pandemic-friendly heart health through multiple virtual programs, many open to the community at no charge, including the Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP), Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring (BPSM), Healthy Living Behavior Change and BPSM Health Eating Presentation. Free community registration is available to all at tgfymca.org
“Throughout the pandemic, our YMCA has been committed to providing virtual chronic disease self-management programs to the greater community,” stated Krystal R. Canady, CEO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “We understand the need is greater at this time, with many individuals living in isolation, remaining less active and not seeking medical care to the extent prior to the pandemic.”
The Gateway Family YMCA has increased the availability of the virtual Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP) – providing a virtual weekly program to community participants. The program provides a supportive environment where participants work together in a small group to learn about eating healthier, increasing their physical activity and making other behavior changes with the goal of reducing body weight and regaining health.
The YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program helps adults with hypertension lower and better manage their blood pressure. The program focuses on regular monitoring of one’s blood pressure at home using proper measuring techniques, individualized support and nutrition education to potentially reduce blood pressure and improve their quality of life.
The BPSM Healthy Eating Presentation is a weekly virtual program designed for a small-group setting highlighting healthier eating habits. Although designed by The Gateway Family YMCA as a complement to the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program, the Healthy Eating Presentation program provides simple nutrition information to benefit all interested individuals.
Healthy Living Behavior Change is designed to assist individuals in setting goals and making personal progress to a healthy life. Through small, manageable lifestyle changes, participants learn to take control of their overall health and wellness and create a plan to track and manage small behavior changes.
In addition to the free virtual programs, The Gateway Family YMCA also offers the Y’s Weight Loss Program in a virtual format, free for YMCA members and for a small fee to community participants. Registration for all programs is available at tgfymca.org
“Monitoring and improving your health may be more important now than ever. Our commitment to the community remains strong and our dedicated YMCA staff are here to support you during each step to regain control of your behavior and your health,” said Melynda A. Mileski, EVP/COO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “Whether you have high blood pressure, are at risk for heart disease or simply wish to improve your overall health, our Y is here as a community resource and partner.”
The Gateway Family YMCA offers a community of diverse individuals who can support all people in meeting their health and well-being goals. Learn more by visiting tgfymca.org or email Paul Mickiewicz, Senior Director of Healthy Living at bpsm@tgfymca.org
