Senior Talk Shines Light on Hypertension and Community Health Resources

Marshfield, WI — At the July 17 “Senior Talk” session, community members gathered to hear from Michelle Meidl, a nurse practitioner with Family Health Center, as she shared vital information on hypertension—often called the “silent killer”—and the wide array of services offered by the center.
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Family Health Center, which has served the Marshfield area for over 50 years, partners with the Marshfield Clinic to offer dental, AODA (Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse), and now primary care services. Meidl highlighted that Family Health Center accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, and also offers a sliding scale for uninsured patients. The primary care clinic is located on the sixth floor of the Patriot Tower, formerly City Hall, with AODA services on the seventh and dental care on the hill near the Marshfield Clinic.

Meidl’s presentation focused heavily on hypertension. She explained the causes, risks, and importance of regular monitoring. “Hypertension is often symptomless,” she said, “and long-term high blood pressure can lead to kidney damage, heart failure, and other serious conditions.”

She walked attendees through proper blood pressure measurement techniques and emphasized the importance of regular annual physicals. “We often hear patients say, ‘I feel fine,’ and avoid doctor visits. But hypertension doesn’t always make you feel sick—until it causes real damage.”

Lifestyle factors like stress, poor diet, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise are leading contributors to high blood pressure. Meidl encouraged attendees to reduce sodium intake, quit smoking, and increase physical activity. She also acknowledged genetic predispositions and aging as risk factors that must be managed with vigilance.

A key takeaway was the importance of knowing your numbers. Meidl said, “The only way to truly know if you have high blood pressure is to get it checked. Don't wait for symptoms.” She advised seniors to bring up concerns about blood pressure, cholesterol, and bone density—especially in men over 50—with their primary care providers.

The session concluded with a Q&A and optional blood pressure checks. For future Senior Talk topics, Meidl encouraged participants to share their interests with Marshfield Parks & Recreation.

This health education event is part of the “Senior Talk” series, produced in collaboration with Marshfield Parks & Recreation and featured on Marshfield Broadcasting - Producers Channel 989.

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