Commentary on treatment of hypertension in the elderly

The goal of treatment of hypertension in older persons is to lower the blood pressure to <140/90 mm Hg. Older persons with diastolic hypertension should have their diastolic blood pressure lowered to 80 to 85 mm Hg. The blood pressure should be lowered to 130/85 mm Hg in persons with diabetes mellitus or renal insufficiency and to 125/75 mm Hg in persons with proteinuria of 1 gram per 24 hours. Diuretics or beta blockers should be used as initial drugs in the treatment of hypertension. The choice of antihypertensive drug in older persons with associated medical conditions depends on the associated medical conditions.