A new program at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin is designed to help prevent or manage high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes.
The Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at the medical center will offer "Take HOLD" — hypertension/obesity/hyper-lipidemia/diabetes — a 12-week program geared toward individuals who have risk factors or family history toward those conditions.
According to Brianna Carlson, cardiopulmonary therapist and facilitator of the Take H.O.L.D. program, the program is for those who may have a hard time managing some or all of these chronic conditions on their own.
"The program identifies the personal risk factors for developing these conditions," she said. "I personally will assist people with developing healthier lifestyle choices to help prevent one or all of those conditions, as well as help manage them and reduce any complications due to the conditions."
The program is for those who are ready to do something about their health, Carlson said.
ADVERTISEMENT
"This 12-week program is for those who may need a little more help getting started and staying on track," she said. "Participants who are willing to take the time out of their busy schedules to learn about prevention and wellness for the entire 12 weeks are more likely to continue with their new healthy lifestyle" when the program ends.
Class participants will learn about the power of prevention; healthy eating strategies and choices; physical activity; a diabetes overview; portion sizes; navigating around eating out; partnering with a health care provider for optimal health; getting the family involved; and celebrating successes.
The Take HOLD program will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays from Sept. 12 through Nov. 28 in the Rehabilitation Services Department on the lower level of the medical center.
The deadline to register is Sept. 6. Cost is $60 and is required at the time of registration.
For more information, call Carlson at 434-1674.
