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Published on: May 17, 2024

Hypertension in the elderly: the time has come to treat

A M Radin, H R Black

    Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
    |May 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    Antihypertensive therapy is effective for elderly patients over 65 with high blood pressure, despite previous concerns. Treatment is recommended for systolic pressure over 160 mm Hg or diastolic over 95 mm Hg.

    Area of Science:

    • Gerontology
    • Cardiology
    • Neurology

    Background:

    • Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease in individuals over 65.
    • The efficacy and risks of antihypertensive therapy in the elderly have been debated, with potential overemphasis on risks.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the necessity and efficacy of antihypertensive therapy in elderly patients.
    • To propose revised treatment guidelines for hypertension in older adults.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of existing evidence on antihypertensive therapy in patients over 65.
    • Development of a revised stepped-care treatment approach.

    Main Results:

    • The risks of antihypertensive therapy in the elderly may be overemphasized.
    • Evidence suggests treatment is beneficial when systolic blood pressure exceeds 160 mm Hg or diastolic pressure exceeds 95 mm Hg.

    Conclusions:

    • Elderly patients with specific blood pressure thresholds should receive antihypertensive treatment.
    • A revised stepped-care approach, including vasodilating agents, is proposed for managing hypertension in older adults.

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