Description
Hypertension is highly prevalent in older people. It is a major risk factor for stroke, cognitive decline, and overall cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The increased risk is mainly associated with systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure. Clinical trials have demonstrated that treating hypertension is beneficial in older people. Low dose diuretics are the recommended first line therapy and lifestyle modifications should be part of the treatment regardless of patient age. For carefully selected patients, there is no age limit beyond which hypertension should not be treated. Patient involvement in the management and a multidisciplinary approach may improve quality of care.
