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Hypertension in the Older Adult

Belinda Setters1, Holly M Holmes2

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Robley Rex VAMC, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 800 Zorn Avenue, 6 West - GEC #627, Louisville, KY 40206, USA; Inpatient Geriatrics, Department of Family & Geriatric Medicine, Robley Rex VAMC, University of Louisville School of Medicine, 800 Zorn Avenue, 6 West - GEC #627, Louisville, KY 40206, USA.

Primary Care
|August 12, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Managing high blood pressure in older adults requires careful consideration of individual health. Treatment strategies must balance benefits against risks like falls and cognitive issues for better quality of life.

Area of Science:

  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Primary Care Practice

Background:

  • Hypertension is a prevalent condition in adults, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality.
  • Recent studies have informed optimal blood pressure targets, particularly in older populations.
  • Debate persists regarding hypertension management in frail elderly individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current understanding of hypertension treatment in older adults.
  • To highlight controversies and concerns surrounding treatment in this demographic.
  • To emphasize individualized approaches considering patient fitness and potential adverse effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent large studies on hypertension in older persons.
  • Analysis of existing data on blood pressure treatment and associated risks.
  • Discussion of factors influencing treatment decisions in geriatric hypertension.

Main Results:

  • Optimal blood pressure targets have been updated but remain debated for frail elderly.
  • Concerns exist regarding the link between blood pressure treatment and falls or cognitive decline.
  • Individualized treatment strategies are crucial for older hypertensive patients.

Conclusions:

  • Hypertension management in older adults necessitates a personalized approach.
  • Treatment decisions must weigh potential benefits against risks such as falls and cognitive impairment.
  • Focus should be on maintaining quality of life and considering individual patient characteristics.

Keywords:
Blood pressureElderly hypertensionGeriatricHypertension

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