Blood pressure readings consist of two figures: systolic pressure (the top number) and diastolic pressure (the bottom number), both measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). Ideally, neither should exceed 140/90 mmHg. Beyond this threshold, regardless of age, you enter the realm of hypertension, where surges in pressure strain the walls of your blood vessels. According to the British Heart Foundation, uncontrolled hypertension multiplies the risk of stroke by five and of heart attack by four. I once watched my own father’s expression turn from surprise to concern when his GP flagged a reading of 145/92 mmHg at a routine check-up—proof that a single number can trigger a life-changing conversation.
Common causes of high blood pressure
In most people—especially after age 50—high blood pressure develops without a clear culprit, known as primary hypertension. In rarer cases, secondary factors like kidney disease, hormonal imbalances or narrowed renal arteries play a part. Lifestyle elements also tip the scales: sedentary habits, excess weight, heavy alcohol use, smoking and conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol all contribute. My neighbour discovered her blood pressure dropped noticeably after quitting smoking and losing just a few kilos, underscoring how everyday choices can shift the numbers.
Recommended targets after 70
Age brings a natural stiffening of the arteries, but doctors agree there’s still a safe ceiling. At 70, you should aim for readings under 140/90 mmHg; beyond age 80, experts from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence suggest a slightly looser target of under 150/90 mmHg. This small adjustment balances the benefits of lowering pressure against the risk of polypharmacy and excessive dips in blood pressure that can lead to dizziness or falls.
Diagnosing and managing hypertension in older adults
Because blood pressure can fluctuate—sometimes dramatically—in older adults, a single reading rarely tells the full story. Home monitoring over several days and ambulatory monitoring (checking your pressure every 20 minutes over 24 hours) paint the clearest picture. Once diagnosed, treatment begins with lifestyle changes: quitting tobacco, adding gentle activity, trimming extra pounds and limiting alcohol. Medications follow, but must be prescribed with care to avoid side effects such as low sodium levels or a slow heart rate. My aunt learned this the hard way after a new pill left her light-headed; her physician fine-tuned her dosage, and she’s now enjoying steady readings and fewer dizzy spells.
By understanding the numbers, recognising the underlying causes and working closely with your healthcare team, you can keep your blood pressure in check well into your golden years—helping safeguard your heart, brain and overall vitality.
