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Evaluation and management of hypertension in the elderly

A K Soyibo1, E N Barton

  • 1Department of Medicine, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica. demoskey@hotmail.com

The West Indian Medical Journal
|September 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Managing hypertension in older adults (60+ years) requires careful consideration of age-related vascular changes and co-morbidities. Individualized treatment plans are essential due to potential drug interactions and side effects in elderly patients.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Hypertension in the elderly (60+ years) presents unique challenges, often linked to arterial stiffness and intimal hyperplasia.
  • Elevated blood pressure in this demographic can be systolic, diastolic, or combined, increasing with age.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the complexities in treating hypertension in the elderly.
  • To emphasize the need for comprehensive management strategies considering co-morbidities and drug interactions.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current understanding of hypertension pathophysiology in aging populations.
  • Analysis of presentation patterns and complications in elderly hypertensive patients.
  • Consideration of pharmacological options and individualized treatment approaches.

Main Results:

  • Hypertension prevalence increases with age, necessitating broad screening beyond at-risk individuals.
  • Elderly patients often present with complications like stroke, cardiovascular events, or erectile dysfunction.
  • Management requires careful attention to co-morbidities, drug interactions, and side effects.

Conclusions:

  • Effective hypertension treatment in the elderly demands an individualized approach, balancing numerous contributing factors.
  • Despite numerous antihypertensive options, a tailored strategy is crucial for optimal outcomes in older adults.
  • Addressing arterial stiffness and vascular changes is key to managing hypertension in this population.

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