Blood pressure normally increases from childhood to middle age, but what happens in later life has been less clear. A study from the University of Exeter has found that blood pressure in older adults starts to gradually decline about 14 years before death.
This discovery could help doctors better understand aging and guide treatment decisions for older patients.
What the Study Found
Researchers analyzed medical records of 46,634 people in the UK who died at age 60 or older. The participants included both healthy individuals and those with conditions such as heart disease, dementia, and high blood pressure.
The results showed that blood pressure decline was most noticeable in people with:
- Dementia
- Heart failure
- Significant weight loss in later life
- A history of high blood pressure
However, the study also found that blood pressure dropped over time even in people who were otherwise healthy. This suggests that the decline is a natural part of aging rather than just a result of illness.
What This Means for Older Adults
This finding is important because it challenges common beliefs about blood pressure in old age. Doctors often focus on treating high blood pressure, but they may also need to carefully monitor declining blood pressure in older adults.
However, the researchers do not suggest stopping blood pressure medication in later life. Instead, they recommend more research to understand why this decline happens and what it means for overall health.
Should You Be Concerned?
If you or a loved one is experiencing a drop in blood pressure in later years, it is best to discuss it with a doctor. While this study suggests that gradual declines are normal, sudden or extreme drops could indicate underlying health issues. A doctor can help determine if treatment adjustments are necessary.
This research highlights the need for a personalized approach to blood pressure management in older adults. Understanding the natural changes in blood pressure over time can help doctors provide better care and avoid unnecessary treatments.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies that black licorice could cause dangerous high blood pressure, and this common plant nutrient could help reduce high blood pressure.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about how coffee influence your risk of high blood pressure, and results showing this olive oil could reduce blood pressure in healthy people.
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