Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: the first number measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats while the second number measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats. This can be obtained by listening to Korotkoff sounds with a stethoscope using the auscultatory approach and a manual manometer. High triglycerides may contribute to the hardening of the arteries or thickening of the artery walls (arteriosclerosis) which increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. A blood draw with fasting will aid in figuring out the person's triglycerides. These are important to understand as they indicate a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases when they are higher than normal limits.

In order to explain to the elderly without the concept of normal distribution I would compare the maintenance required to that of a vehicle. You need to ensure the gauges read correctly in order to ensure the functionality of the vehicle. The same concept applies to the body. If the gauges are off on the vehicle it usually signifies maintenance needs to be performed. If the stethoscope shows higher readings and the blood draw shows high triglycerides it could be an indication that the arteries are thickening and the chances for a heart attack/stroke increase significantly. A vehicle won't run for very long with multiple concerns needing to be addressed, the same applies to the body. Healthcare is extremely important.

The question is how would you respond to this statement?