Hypertension and Aging

Hypertension may increase as you age, discover how you can control your blood pressure.

David Minaya

August 23, 2024

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Most seniors (62% males and 67.8% females ) between the ages of 65 and 74 have hypertension. As you age, the prevalence of hypertension increases. In older adults (75+), 76% of men and nearly 80% of women have high blood pressure.

Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious health problems , including:

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Heart disease

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Stroke

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Vascular dementia

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Eye problems

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Kidney disease

The good news is most seniors can control their blood pressure.

Normal and High Blood Pressures

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against your artery walls. The upper pressure number (systolic) measures when your heart beats. The lower number (diastolic) measures pressure when your heart rests between beats.

Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. For example, 118/78 is normal.

You have high blood pressure when:

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Systolic pressure (top number) is 130 or higher

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Diastolic pressure (bottom number) is 80 or higher

Learn about Medicare coverage for blood pressure monitors.

Lifestyle Changes to Control Blood Pressure

The following lifestyle changes can lower your blood pressure:

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Maintain a healthy weight – body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9. Calculate your BMI and learn about weight loss for seniors.

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Exercise – discover warm-up exercises for seniors.

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Eat healthy – choose foods and drinks with little to no added sugar , get enough protein to maintain your muscles, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

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Drink less alcohol – avoid drinking more than two drinks (men) or one drink (women) per day. Discover Medicare coverage for mental health and substance abuse.

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Don’t smoke – Medicare can help you quit. Learn about smoking cessation coverage.

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Manage stress – learn healthy ways to cope with stress.

Blood Pressure Medication

A Medicare Part D prescription drug plan can cover blood pressure medications. Talk to your doctor about medicines to lower your blood pressure. Call Senior Healthcare Direct at 1-833-463-3262 to speak with a licensed agent.

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