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Hypertension in the elderly

Wilbert S Aronow1

  • 1Department of Medicine, Divisions of Cardiology, Geriatrics, and Pulmonary/Critical Care, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA. wsaronow@aol.com

Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|December 1, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Untreated hypertension is common in elderly patients. This article discusses unique challenges and considerations for managing hypertension in older adults, including comorbidities.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

  • Hypertension is prevalent in elderly patients but often undertreated.
  • Older adults frequently present with multiple comorbidities, complicating treatment.
  • Standard hypertension treatment goals apply, but individualized plans are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the unique challenges in treating hypertension in the elderly population.
  • To emphasize the importance of considering comorbidities in geriatric hypertension management.
  • To provide insights into optimizing antihypertensive therapy for older adults.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on geriatric hypertension.
  • Analysis of treatment guidelines for elderly hypertensive patients.
  • Discussion of clinical considerations for managing comorbidities alongside hypertension.

Main Results:

  • Elderly patients face distinct challenges in hypertension management.
  • Comorbidities significantly influence antihypertensive medication selection and titration.
  • Tailored treatment strategies are essential for effective blood pressure control in this demographic.

Conclusions:

  • Effective hypertension management in the elderly requires a personalized approach.
  • Addressing comorbidities is integral to successful treatment outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to refine best practices for geriatric hypertension care.

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