As people get older, taking care of their blood pressure becomes more important. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body.
If the pressure is too high, it can damage your heart and blood vessels. This increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious health problems. If the pressure is too low, it can cause dizziness, fainting, and even falls. So, what’s the safest blood pressure range for people over 60?
For a long time, doctors told older adults to aim for a systolic blood pressure—that’s the top number—below 140 mmHg. But more recent research has changed the way experts think about this.
A major study called the SPRINT trial (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial) looked at people with high blood pressure who did not have diabetes. The study tested whether lowering their systolic blood pressure below 120 mmHg would bring better results than keeping it under 140 mmHg.
The results were surprising: the people who kept their blood pressure under 120 had fewer heart attacks, strokes, and deaths related to heart disease.
This made many health professionals wonder if everyone over 60 should try to reach the lower number. But it’s not that simple. Bringing blood pressure down too far can lead to problems—especially for older adults.
Some people in the study who lowered their blood pressure that much experienced dizziness, falls, and kidney issues. These side effects can be dangerous, especially for seniors who are already at risk of falling or who may have other health problems.
So, while the lower target worked well for some, it may not be the best option for everyone. At the moment, most experts agree that people over 60 should aim for a systolic pressure between 120 and 130 mmHg. This seems to be a good balance—it helps prevent heart disease without causing too many side effects.
But this is not a one-size-fits-all rule. The best blood pressure target can change depending on a person’s overall health. For example, someone with diabetes, kidney disease, or who is taking multiple medications might need a different approach. That’s why it’s important to talk to a doctor who knows your full medical history.
Some people may feel fine with a higher blood pressure. Others may do well with a lower target. Doctors also look at how a person reacts to blood pressure medicine. If the medicine causes side effects, like tiredness or dizziness, the doctor might adjust the treatment or aim for a slightly higher number.
In short, managing blood pressure in older adults is personal. What works well for one person might not be right for another. The best thing to do is see a doctor regularly and make a plan together. That way, you can find the safest and most effective way to protect your heart as you age.
Regular checkups, a healthy diet, exercise, and staying informed can all help keep your blood pressure in a good range. By working with your doctor and listening to your body, you can stay healthier and feel better every day.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and natural coconut sugar could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness.
For more health information, please see recent studies about added sugar in your diet linked to higher blood pressure, and results showing vitamin D could improve blood pressure in people with diabetes.
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