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Related Experiment Videos

Blood pressure in the very old.

R J Heikinheimo1, M V Haavisto, R H Kaarela

  • 1Geriatric Department, Tampere City Hospital, Finland.

Journal of Hypertension
|April 1, 1990
PubMed
Summary

This study found that specific blood pressure ranges (140-169 mmHg systolic, 70-99 mmHg diastolic) are linked to lower mortality in older adults. Deviations from these levels, especially sudden drops in systolic pressure, indicate higher health risks.

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Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Older adults living independently present unique health challenges.
  • Blood pressure monitoring is crucial for assessing health risks in the elderly.
  • Longitudinal studies are needed to understand the prognostic value of blood pressure in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between blood pressure levels and mortality in an elderly Finnish population.
  • To identify optimal blood pressure ranges for predicting survival in individuals aged 84-88.
  • To examine the impact of blood pressure changes over time on mortality and institutionalization.

Main Methods:

  • A 3-year prospective cohort study involving 724 community-dwelling older adults (aged 84-88) in Tampere, Finland.

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  • Annual medical examinations including blood pressure measurements.
  • Follow-up for mortality and institutionalization.

    • Main Results:

    • Blood pressure level was a significant prognostic indicator for 1-year mortality.
    • The lowest mortality rates were observed in individuals with systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 140-169 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 70-99 mmHg.
    • Blood pressures outside these ranges, particularly low SBP after a previous decline, were associated with increased all-cause, cardiac, and coronary mortality.
    • Low SBP was also linked to a higher likelihood of institutionalization.

    Conclusions:

    • Specific blood pressure ranges are associated with reduced mortality and institutionalization risk in very elderly individuals.
    • Sudden decreases in SBP, especially to low levels, are a warning sign for increased mortality.
    • These findings highlight the importance of monitoring blood pressure trends in older adults for proactive healthcare.