()– This is an invitation to take control of your heart health and possibly reduce your risk of stroke. All from the comfort of your own home.

Home is the most likely place you will spend your time if you or someone you care about is 65 years old or older. And while at home, you can consider participating in the Heartline Study sponsored by the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson in collaboration with Apple. Because the study is completely online, you don’t have to travel to any doctors’ offices or other locations.

“People can participate from the safety of their home,”Paul Burton, M.D., Chief Global Medical Affairs Officer, Janssen Scientific Affairs. “They’ll be able to participate in a heart health engagement program with activities that may help improve sleep, fitness and wellness, while contributing to innovative heart health research.”

The study examines whether the Heartline Study App and the Apple Watch’s heart health features can improve clinical outcomes. This includes reducing stroke risk from early detection of atrial fibrillation (AFib). You can also find articles and facts on the Heartline Study to help you stay engaged with your heart health.

AFib is a common type of irregular heart rhythm. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that it accounts for 454,000 hospitalizations and 158,000 deaths annually in the U.S. AFib is also responsible for over one-third all strokes. Dr. Burton points out that it is responsible for more than one-third of all strokes. “it can be difficult to diagnose since people often do not experience symptoms.”

These are some tips to help you manage your heart health from the comfort of your own home.

• Engage in short bouts of physical activity.AFib incidence rises with age. Around 70% of AFib sufferers are aged between 68 to 85. Even the smallest amount of activity can improve everything, energy, focus, and overall health. You can start by pacing while you do the virtual chats that many of us have gotten used to during quarantine.

• Eat heart-healthy food. “Fruits, vegetables, and fish or chicken are obvious places to begin,” Johns Hopkins Medicine advises.

• Manage high blood pressure.It is one of AFib’s top risk factors. High levels of systolic or diastolic blood pressures are defined as readings greater than 140.

Who is eligible to participate in the Heartline study The eligibility criteria for the Heartline study are those who are 65 years or older, have Original Medicare (Traditional), and own an iPhone 6s model or later. AFib patients may be eligible, regardless of whether they have been diagnosed. Additional eligibility criteria may apply.

Participation in the Heartline Study is possible in a number of ways. iPhone 6s and newer are required. Some participants will only be allowed to use their iPhone. Some participants may be asked to wear Apple Watches. Participants who are asked to wear an Apple Watch will have two options. One can purchase the watch, and one can be borrowed for the duration of study. You can return the watch when the study is over. Johnson & Johnson and Apple are committed to ensuring that participation in the study is not limited based on financial need.

For more information and to download Heartline Study App, please visit Heartline.com.