Apparently Healthy College Students: Elevated Blood Pressure and the Need for Cardiovascular Risk Education

Elevated blood pressure (BP) at a young age leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) (Zhang et al., 2019). College students are often unaware of hypertension and its risk factors which could increase the development of these conditions. Our study served to educate, assess BP rates, and identify risk factors to promote health. To frame our research, two theoretical models were utilized: Neuman Systems Model and The Fogg Behavioral Model (TFBM). Through convenience sampling, BP assessments were performed on participants attending a private midwestern university. At each screening, participants filled out a Google Form, measuring hypertension knowledge, habits, stress, medications, history, and other factors. BP, heart rate, body fat, body water, and BMI were measured. BP was measured twice and averaged. Recent caffeine, food, and alcohol intake were recorded. Education was provided about stress, stress reduction, and CVD. The results indicated most participants were unaware of their risk factors regarding hypertension. The majority of participants self-reported normal BP; however, 52% of participants had an elevated systolic BP, and 30.4% of participants had an elevated diastolic BP. Caffeine and alcohol use were not shown to be related to hypertension. Participants reported high stress related to college life. To prevent future complications of hypertension in participants, it is crucial to implement interventions that address these outcomes (Choi et al., 2020). We disseminated our results and invited students to perform a knowledge check on another Google Form, of which 96% of students were able to accurately identify their risks

Social Isolation in Older Adults Transitioning to Assisted Living Facilities

Social Isolation in Older Adults Transitioning to Assisted Living Facilities Background: Social isolation describes the objective state of being lonely, whereas loneliness is a subjective feeling based on relationships (Rohr et al., 2022). In a meta-analysis, 33% of an elderly population experienced social isolation (Ran et al., 2024). Based on the framework of loneliness, social isolation, and associated health outcomes (Barnes et al., 2020), the purposes of this study were to describe experiences of social isolation, loneliness, and strategies that decreased these experiences in older adults following a move to assisted living. Methods: Using a qualitative approach, residents 65 and older (N=10), without cognitive deficits who moved to a facility within the past 3-12 months were interviewed. Participants completed the Mini-Cog© for inclusion prior to answering nine open-ended questions. After each interview, participants completed the UCLA loneliness scale. Constant comparison was used to identify major categories. Results: Participants 70-92 years (M=82.20, SD=7.64) were female (80%) and a widow/widower (60%). Three main categories emerged: (a) resolved to leave home, (b) trust in a safe system to meet needs, and (c) having to accept a new normal. UCLA scores demonstrated a moderate degree of loneliness (M=38.25, SD=15.56). Conclusions: Early detection of social isolation is essential to improve quality of life (Ran et al., 2024) and prevent illness in older adults (Jansson et al., 2021). While loneliness and the need to move impacted these older adults, their involvement in the choice and receiving a tailored experience improved their transition (Sun et al., 2021)

Hypertension, Risk Factors, and Education in Healthy College Students Over Time

Those with elevated blood pressure (BP) at a young age have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (Zhang et al., 2019). College students are unaware of modifiable factors that increase risk of developing hypertension (HTN) and complications. The purposes of our study are to assess rates of hypertension in college students, help students learn the risk factors for high BP, and improve overall health status. Two conceptual frameworks were used: Neuman Systems Model and The Fogg Behavioral Model (TFBM). Neuman’s model assumes each client is an open system, interacting with risk factors of health (Neuman & Fawcett, 2011). Primary prevention education on risk factors should preclude development of hypertension in healthy college students. TFBM states motivation, ability, and prompts must occur at the same time for behavior to occur (Behavior Model, 2022). At initial screenings at a private midwestern college campus, BP and heart rate were measured. 103 students participated in an online health survey which assessed health history related to hypertension, overall health, and knowledge of hypertension. Education was provided on how risk factors affect BP. The results indicated most college students were unaware of their risk factors and family history regarding hypertension. The majority of students reported normal BP. Additionally, most had normal body weight, body water, and body fat percentages. This study identified factors that influence BP to establish a baseline for management/prevention of HTN. The goal is to have healthier people, lower BP, and prevention of long-term cardiovascular risk