Pulse pressure is associated with decline in physical function in older adults

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Physical Medicine

Background:

• Aging is often associated with changes in cardiovascular parameters, including blood pressure.
• Physical function decline is a significant concern in older adults, impacting independence and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prospective associations between pulse pressure and hypertension with the decline in physical function among older adults.
• To identify specific components of physical function affected by elevated pulse pressure.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study, the Healthy Aging Longitudinal Study, followed Taiwanese adults aged 55+ for over 6 years.
• Pulse pressure was calculated from systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Physical function was assessed via handgrip strength, gait speed, and 6-minute walking distance.
• Linear and logistic regressions were used to analyze the relationship between pulse pressure, hypertension, and physical function decline.

Main Results:

• Higher baseline pulse pressure was significantly associated with future declines in handgrip strength, gait speed, and 6-minute walking distance.
• Older adults with high systolic blood pressure (≥140 mmHg) and elevated pulse pressure (≥60 mmHg) had increased risks of weakness, slowness, and diminished endurance.
• In multivariable analyses, handgrip strength and walking speed remained significantly associated with pulse pressure.

Conclusions:

• Pulse pressure is a significant predictor of physical function decline in older adults.
• The findings suggest that elevated pulse pressure negatively impacts strength and locomotion.
• Monitoring pulse pressure may be crucial for preserving physical function in the aging population.