Tips to Refresh Your Family Reunion

Making small changes to your family reunion activities this year may help get younger members more involved and create a memorable experience for all in attendance. Try some of our tips, including:

• Ask a technology-savvy family member to interview elders within your family using a mobile phone or tablet. This will help you create a keepsake video that future generations can watch to better understand family history. Also ask them to talk about your family's health history.
• Create a Facebook group to keep your family informed and excited about the reunion. Post physical activity resources that they may find useful.
• Start a walking or jogging group with your family while at your reunion. Having a buddy can help you stay motivated and active after the reunion.
• Invite family members to add their favorite songs to a reunion playlist. This is an easy way to get your family involved in your planning and moving during the reunion.
• More tips are in the Family Reunion Health Guide. Be sure to share your fun and healthy reunion ideas on our Facebook page!

Four Things People with High Blood Pressure Should Know

Did you know that high blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for kidney disease? May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month and a good time to learn what you can do to manage your blood pressure.

1. Talk to a health provider about medicines. Some medicines may raise your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, let your provider know about all of the medicines you take, including over-the-counter products and nutritional supplements to avoid possible complications.
2. Get physically active. Regular physical activity can help to lower high blood pressure and also help boost energy during the day. Also, it may help you sleep better at night. Check with your provider before starting a new activity plan. The Weight-control Information Network has easy to use resources that can help you be active at any weight.
3. Maintain a healthy weight. If you're considered overweight (BMI of 25 – 29.9) or obese (BMI of 30 or more), take steps to lose weight. Cut back your calorie intake by choosing healthier options and eating smaller portions. Include more physical activity into your schedule. Take a look at the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's menu planner and Body Mass Index Calculator for tips on nutrition and your healthy weight goal.
4. Get checked for kidney disease. High blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time and may even cause kidney failure. Get checked for kidney disease to keep your kidneys healthy. For more information, visit: http://nkdep.nih.gov/resources/african-american-kidney-disease-508.pdf (2.1 MB).

Visit the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's website for more information about managing your blood pressure: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hbp/treatment.html.

Seniors and Kidney Health
If you're looking to learn more about how aging affects kidney function, visit the NIH Senior Health website. There, you'll find videos, educational information, visuals, and tips that are easy to understand and access.

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