Keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level is one of the most important ways to protect your health as you get older. Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels.
This pressure changes throughout the day, but if it stays too high or too low for a long time, it can cause serious problems.
High blood pressure is very common, especially in older adults. It is often called a “silent problem” because many people do not feel any symptoms. However, over time, it can damage the heart, brain, and blood vessels. It greatly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in Australia and many other countries.
On the other hand, blood pressure that is too low can also be dangerous. It can make people feel dizzy or weak. In older adults, this can lead to falls, which may cause serious injuries such as broken bones. Because of this, doctors need to find the right balance when treating blood pressure.
For many years, doctors aimed to keep the top number in a blood pressure reading, called systolic pressure, below 140 mmHg for older adults. This number is the pressure when the heart beats.
The lower number, called diastolic pressure, measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats. Both numbers are important, but most treatment decisions focus on the systolic number.
In recent years, new research has changed how doctors think about blood pressure targets. One of the most important studies is called the SPRINT trial, which stands for Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial. This large study included thousands of adults over the age of 50 who had a higher risk of heart disease but did not have diabetes.
In the study, researchers divided people into two groups. One group aimed to keep their systolic blood pressure below 140 mmHg, which was the usual target at that time. The other group aimed for a lower target, below 120 mmHg. The researchers then followed the participants for several years to see what would happen.
The results were surprising. People in the lower blood pressure group had fewer heart attacks, fewer strokes, and fewer deaths from heart-related causes. This suggested that lowering blood pressure more than previously recommended could provide extra protection for some people.
However, the study also showed that lowering blood pressure too much can cause side effects. Some people felt dizzy or faint, especially when standing up.
Others had problems with their kidneys or felt unwell from taking stronger or more medications. These risks are especially important for older adults, who may already be more sensitive to changes in blood pressure.
Because of these findings, doctors now take a more careful and personal approach. For many adults over 60, a systolic blood pressure below 130 mmHg is often recommended, as long as it can be reached safely. At the same time, doctors try to avoid lowering it too much, especially below 120 mmHg, unless there is a clear benefit and the person feels well.
The best target is not the same for everyone. People with conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or a history of falls may need a different plan. Some people may do better with a slightly higher target to avoid dizziness and other side effects.
This is why regular check-ups are very important. Talking openly with your doctor or nurse can help you find the right balance. Your healthcare provider will consider your overall health, your medications, and how you feel in your daily life before deciding on a target.
Managing blood pressure is not about getting the lowest number possible. It is about finding a safe range that protects your heart and helps you feel well. Simple steps like eating less salt, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medications as prescribed can all help.
Research like the SPRINT trial has helped doctors better understand how to treat blood pressure in older adults. It shows that a slightly lower target can be helpful for many people, but it must be done carefully. The key message is clear: a personalised plan is the best way to stay healthy.
By staying informed and working closely with your healthcare team, you can take control of your blood pressure and protect your health as you age.
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 information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about How to eat your way to healthy blood pressure and results showing that Modified traditional Chinese cuisine can lower blood pressure.
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