Hypertension in the Geriatric Population A Patient-Centered Approach

Hypertension contributes greatly to adverse cardiovascular outcomes; the magnitude of this contribution increases with age. The most recent guideline has proposed raising the goal systolic blood pressure to less than 150 mm Hg among those over age 60; however, this recommendation is not endorsed by other organizations. There are multiple contributors to hypertension in the older individual, including increased vascular stiffness, salt sensitivity, and decreased baroreceptor responsiveness. Therapy in the hypertensive patient over age 60 should be individualized and account for patient's health, functional and cognitive status, comorbidities, frailty, and prognosis.