High Blood Pressure Chart for Seniors: Understanding Your Readings

As we age, it's essential to monitor our health closely, especially when it comes to chronic conditions like high blood pressure. For seniors, managing high blood pressure (hypertension) requires a thorough understanding of what the readings mean and how to adjust treatment accordingly.

What Are Normal Blood Pressure Readings?

A healthy blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg, with both numbers indicating a low risk of heart attacks and strokes. The bottom number, diastolic pressure (80), measures blood pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. The top number, systolic pressure (120), measures blood pressure when the heart beats and pumps blood.

Guidelines for Seniors

Recent studies have relaxed recommendations for people 60 and older, suggesting that medication treatment should only start once pressures reach 150/90 mmHg. However, some experts disagree on whether seniors should be treated with medication to bring their blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg due to potential interactions with other medications and side effects like dizziness and increased risk of falls.

What Can Seniors Do to Manage High Blood Pressure?

For those whose pressures are over 140/90 but less than 150/90, experts recommend taking additional steps such as:

* Losing weight

* Exercising regularly

* Reducing salt intake

These lifestyle changes can help bring blood pressure under control without medication.

While there may be debate about how aggressively high blood pressure should be treated in older patients, understanding your blood pressure readings is crucial for maintaining good health. By following these guidelines and consulting with your healthcare provider, you can better manage your high blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.

Remember, a healthy blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg, indicating a low risk of heart attacks and strokes. Take control of your health today!

High blood pressure chart for seniors