[The peculiarities of the orthostasis reaction in advanced age]

The hemodynamic response to postural stress (75 degrees foot-down tilt) was observed in 14 elderly normotensives (age range 61-92 years) and 15 younger controls (20-30 years). Both the immediate heart-rate response and the increase of the diastolic blood pressure was reduced in elderly individuals, although they didn't suffer from postural hypotension. The suppression of heart-rate oscillation after tilting could be a possible sign of aging alterations. It is concluded, that drug-dependent "normal" blood pressure levels in elderly patient decrease the orthostatic tolerance if the baroreflex is impaired.