Five Ways for Seniors to Control their Blood Pressure

As older adults age, it’s important to remember that not only do they need to control high blood pressure, they need to be aware that low blood pressure is increasingly common the older they get.

Low blood pressure, which is defined as 90/60 mmHg or less, can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness and falls. The Journal of the American Heart Association conducted research that studied the relationship between geriatric patients and hypotension (low blood pressure which occurs when you stand up). They said this condition occurs in up to 30 percent of people over 65.

How seniors can lower their blood pressure

1. Exercise every day

Staying physically active is tremendously beneficial to senior citizens’ overall health, including keeping their blood pressure in check. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans states that older adults should get about 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, five days a week of moderate exercise. Some examples include brisk walking, participating in a cardio class or swimming laps.

Did you know that our senior living communities all offer exercise programs for residents of all ability levels? Learn more about the programs available in a community near you.

2. Cut down on salt in your diet

As seniors age, their bodies and blood pressure become more sensitive to salt (sodium). To accommodate this, be sure to keep an eye on the amount of sodium you’re consuming. High sodium foods in your diet may include soups, baked goods and processed foods. Try adding more fruits and vegetables to your meals to help balance your diet.

3. Get a good night’s sleep

Just like staying physically active is important to senior citizens’ overall health, getting plenty of good sleep every night is just as important. Getting enough sleep helps keep our heart and blood vessels healthy while not getting enough sleep has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.

4. Stop smoking to control your blood pressure

First of all, if you’re an older adult that does not currently smoke, don’t start now! If you’re a smoker, quitting will lower your risk of heart disease. By continuing to smoke, you’re putting your body at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Check with your medical provider on ways to help quit smoking. And remember, you’re never too old to quit smoking. The health benefits of quitting can be seen at any age.

5. Manage your stress

Sometimes it may be easier said than done, but relaxing and coping with problems as they arise will help lower blood pressure in seniors. If this lifestyle change doesn’t seem to be helping, check with your doctor on different medications that may be right for you which can help reduce anxiety.

Get help managing your blood pressure

Keeping all of these lifestyle changes in mind to help control your blood pressure is a great starting point. Because one size doesn’t fit all, don’t be afraid to ask your medical provider for assistance in finding the right plan or combination of plans or medications to help you manage your blood pressure.

How living in an assisted living or independent living community could help you manage your blood pressure

If you’re an older adult that wants help managing your blood pressure daily, consider a Sonida Senior Living community. When you live in our senior apartments, you will have:

  • Nutritious meals cooked for you 
  • Less stress of household chores and maintenance  
  • Transportation to and from the doctor to ensure you stay up-to-date with regular appointments 
  • Medication management to make sure you never miss a dose 
  • Caregivers available 24/7 if you feel dizzy or have symptoms of low blood pressure 

If you want to look at our communities, check out our independent livingassisted living or memory care services for your loved one or contact us to schedule a tour or request more information about a community near you.

Senior Group of Friends Exercise together
Senior Group of Friends Exercise together

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If you’re a senior or caregiver looking for independent living, assisted living or memory care services for you or your loved one, contact us to schedule a tour or request information about a community near you.