Claudia Lora, M.D. will lead a discussion on blood pressure at “Breakfast with the Docs” at 8:30 a.m, Wednesday, Oct. 30 at the Oak Park Arms retirement community, 408 S. Oak Park Ave.
Blood pressure is considered a barometer of overall circulatory health and is one of the vital signs of the body. High blood pressure has been called a “silent killer,” because it can develop for years without any symptoms. This condition eventually affects almost everyone, and more than half of seniors have high blood pressure. Over time, however, high blood pressure can lead to a stroke, heart attack or kidney failure.
Dr. Lora will explain what a blood pressure reading really means, provide tips on healthy diet choices and share what tools are available to prevent or control high blood pressures.
Reducing high blood pressure can be as simple as exercise and a healthy diet. A low-salt, low-fat diet focused on fruits, vegetables and grains has been proven to help lower blood pressure. In addition, 30 minutes of exercise a day is recommended. For seniors this can translate into simply walking more often or engaging in household chores.
Medication is also an option for those who struggle with implementing a lasting lifestyle change.
Dr. Lora is a nephrologist from the University of Illinois Medical Center who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the kidney, from kidney stones and high blood pressure to renal failure. She is board certified in nephrology and internal medicine.
Oak Park Arms Senior Living is a rental retirement community which provides senior housing in the form of independent living. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.
The event is free and open to the public. And it’s not called “Breakfast with the Docs” for nothing: participants who attend will also be served a healthy breakfast.
For more information, or to reserve a seat, call 708-386-4040.
