High Blood Pressure in Older Adults: What the Numbers Mean, Why It Matters, and When to Treat
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is common in older adults and often has no symptoms, but it can increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, heart failure, cognitive problems, and earlier death over time. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg, but treatment goals for older adults may vary depending on age, frailty, health conditions, life expectancy, and side effects such as dizziness or falls. Accurate measurement is important, so readings should be taken after resting, with the correct cuff size, and ideally checked over several days using a home upper-arm monitor. For many older adults, lowering systolic blood pressure below 150 is an important first step, while aiming lower should be decided with a healthcare provider based on the person’s overall health and tolerance.