It is the position of the Society of Geriatric Cardiology that a major new effort is needed to increase the percentage of older individuals who are receiving appropriate treatment for high blood pressure. As a Risk Factor Hypertension, the medical term for high blood pressure, has been identified as a major risk factor contributing to increased disability and death from heart and blood vessel diseases, including strokes, in the elderly population.
Risk correlates better with systolic blood pressure than with diastolic blood pressure.
During the past 15-20 years, several carefully controlled long term studies in the elderly have shown that lowering blood pressure with medication reduces the number of both fatal and nonfatal strokes and heart attacks. Progression from less severe to more severe hypertension, enlargement of the heart, and heart failure are also prevented. The benefits of lowering blood pressure have been demonstrated in patients with all levels of hypertension, in both men and women, African-Americans and whites, and in people up to and including those 80 years old. At least two or three blood pressure readings should be taken at different times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension. Reduction in salt intake, moderation in the use of alcohol, weight reduction if appropriate, and moderate exercise are encouraged.