Blood Pressure 101: A Basic Review for Older Adults
Nearly 70 percent of older adult Americans have hypertension, as reported by the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, increases the risk of heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, and stroke. Because hypertension has no symptoms, it is often referred to as the “silent killer.” Older adults should be aware of their risk for hypertension and make lifestyle changes to keep their blood pressure numbers within a healthy range.
May is National Blood Pressure Education Month. With that in mind, Visiting Angels North Fort Myers would like to take the opportunity to share a few facts about blood pressure. Here is a basic review of blood pressure for older adults.
What is blood pressure?
Every heartbeat pumps blood from the heart into the arteries. The arteries carry that blood to other parts of the body. Blood pressure refers to the pressure of that blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. It’s normal for blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day. Stress, exercise, and sleep can cause blood pressure to rise or fall. It’s also normal for blood pressure to change with age. Physiological changes associated with older age can cause blood pressure to increase.
What do my numbers mean?
Blood pressure is recorded in two numbers. The upper number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heartbeats. This number is called systolic pressure. The lower number, or diastolic pressure, measures the pressure between heartbeats. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
What is a healthy blood pressure?
Experts agree that lower numbers are better for overall health. In 2017, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association updated their blood pressure guidelines to eliminate the category of prehypertension. They recommend that older adults aim for a reading lower than 130/80 mm Hg.
What is hypertension?
The condition in which the long-term pressure of the blood against the artery walls is high enough to cause health problems is referred to as hypertension, or high blood pressure. Previously, a blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg or higher was considered hypertension. Under the updated guidelines, high blood pressure is defined as a consistent reading of 130/80 mm Hg or above.
How do I manage hypertension?
Hypertension can be managed by making a few simple lifestyle changes. Start by losing excessive weight. Follow a heart-healthy diet low in salt and avoid drinking too much alcohol. Exercise for at least 150 minutes each week and try to live as actively as possible. Quit smoking and learn stress-management techniques, such as guided relaxation or deep breathing. Reduce the amount of caffeine you consume and stop smoking if you smoke. Some older adults with hypertension may need prescription medication if their blood pressure is consistently high. Talk with your doctor about what’s best for your situation.
What about low blood pressure?
Older adults also need to be aware of low blood pressure or hypotension on the opposite end. A reading lower than 90/60 mm Hg is generally considered too low. Hypotension can affect an older adult’s safety, putting them at risk for dizziness or fainting, which can cause falls.
If you are an older adult living with hypertension, let Visiting Angels North Fort Myers help you take an active role in lowering your numbers. We offer compassionate home care services for elderly adults who need assistance with daily activities. From care for a few hours per day to care provided 24/7, our options fit the diverse needs of seniors living the North Fort Myers and surrounding communities. Let us become a part of your plan to lower your blood pressure. To learn more, please get in touch with us today by calling 239-226-1620.