Ka Pa‘alana Starts Hui Ola Program April 22, 2014

A new exercise program began on February 25, 2014 for parents in Ka Pa‘alana at Hope Shelter. Hui Ola means “my family’s wellness,” and is intended to teach families how to live an active and healthy lifestyle. Ka Pa‘alana in collaboration with the Leeward Oahu Public Health Nursing Branch and the University of Hawai‘i School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene will track health statistics of the parents through December 2014.

Twenty-three adults signed up for the program, and had initial screenings of their body mass index, blood pressure, and blood glucose level. Each participant completed a survey, a health literacy test, and received a folder that included information about how and why to exercise, how to take your pulse, a heart rate tracking log, and a food consumption log. Athletic shoes for each participant were donated and each participant received a pedometer from Ka Pa‘alana. Twice a week participants walk a 3-mile course, taking their pulse before and after they exercise.

Since the program began many of the participants have already noticed a drop in their weight, blood glucose level, and blood pressure, and are encouraged to continue the program for their own health, and as a model for their keiki.