What is DASH-Plus?

With the aging of the population, the health and nutritional status of older adults has become a growing concern among health professionals, given its significant impact on the U.S. health care system and social services. Among chronic conditions, elevated blood pressure is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and loss of independence later in life. Approximately two-thirds of older adults have hypertension, yet this age group also has the lowest rates of blood pressure control. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan is widely recommended as a foundational strategy for managing hypertension. In addition to a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and self-measured blood pressure monitoring (SMBP) are well-established lifestyle interventions that support heart health.

The DASH-Plus program is a sustainable, community-based approach to hypertension management. It is implemented by the University of Maryland Extension faculty in selected counties in Maryland. Local senior centers and other community sites that serve adults aged 55 and older—often through Area Agencies on Aging or similar organizations—are eligible to participate in the program.

I took your DASH-plus class online in July into August. I wanted to thank everyone involved. You started me on the path to healthy eating. Since August I have lost 40 pounds. I've been back in the pool doing water aerobics. My doctor stopped one of my meds, my A1C has dropped, and generally I feel so much better.

2021 Class Participant

DASH-Plus program topics (Five weekly sessions)

Introduction to Hypertension and DASH-Plus

Session 1: Introduction to Hypertension and DASH-Plus  

Discusses hypertension, including what causes it, how it’s defined, and its effects on the body. Also introduces the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension - Plus (DASH-Plus) program and what it entails. The DASH diet will be taught throughout the program. 

Salt Solutions

Session 2: Salt Solutions  

Discusses the importance of a low-salt diet as an effective strategy to manage hypertension. 

Fruits, Vegetables, Grains

Session 3: Fruits, Vegetables, Grains 

Teaches that 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended as part of the DASH diet, as well as 6-8 servings of grains. Discusses the importance and benefits of these food groups when managing hypertension as well as the difference between refined and complex grains.  

The Power of Protein & Dairy

Session 4: The Power of Protein & Dairy 

Discusses the importance of adequate protein intake and the benefits of incorporating low-fat dairy products. 

Fats, Sweets, and Shopping Recommendations

Session 5: Fats, Sweets, and Shopping Recommendations 

Discusses the differences between healthy and unhealthy fats as well as the role of fats in the body. The DASH diet leaves room for dessert, and this session also provides tips on budgeting.

Who Can Participate?

• Adults 55 and older who live in Maryland
• Has high blood pressure (with or without taking medication)

Why Participate?

• Learn the DASH-Plus approach to managing high blood pressure.
• You will receive a promotional giveaway for every pair of surveys (at registration and after each session) completed.
• All sessions are FREE!

Where Can You Attend a Program?

DASH-Plus is a statewide program, offered in person in select counties in Maryland. 

The program is led by a team of trained registered dietitians and University of Maryland Extension educators.

Jennifer Dixon-Cravens (Harford County, Email: jdixoncr@umd.edu)

Mona Habibi (Montgomery County, Email: mhabibi@umd.edu)

Shauna Henley (Baltimore County, Email: shenley@umd.edu)

Lisa McCoy (Allegany County, Email: lmccoy@umd.edu)

Terry Serio (Carroll County, Email: tserio@umd.edu)