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How Is High Blood Pressure Measured in Round Rock?

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What Older Adults and Families Should Know About Cardiovascular Health

Blood pressure often changes with age, which means older adults and their families need to understand what’s considered healthy now and why it matters.

Today’s guidelines are more refined, and more people are classified as having high blood pressure than in the past. That change affects how we think about prevention, lifestyle habits, and when to ask for support.

This guide breaks down current standards, explains the numbers, and highlights steps older adults can take to stay ahead of common health risks.

Civitas | Seniors participating in drum exercise to stay healthy and regulate blood pressure
Activities like simple drum exercises are an excellent way to regulate the new normal blood pressure for seniors.

Why Blood Pressure Matters

Blood pressure is the force your blood applies to your blood vessels as it moves through your body. It’s expressed using two numbers:

  • Systolic blood pressure (the top number)
  • Diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number)

High blood pressure, called hypertension, often shows no symptoms but increases the risk of heart attack or stroke, kidney issues, and cognitive decline.

About 45% of adults in the U.S. have hypertension, according to the CDC. That number is even higher among seniors. With age, arteries stiffen, making it harder for blood to flow easily. That’s why keeping track of your blood pressure at home or during checkups becomes more important over time.

The New Normal Blood Pressure Guidelines

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association updated their blood pressure guidelines in 2017. These updates set stricter benchmarks, meaning more people now fall into elevated or high categories.

According to the newest blood pressure chart, here’s how the new standards break down for older adults:

  • Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
  • Elevated Blood Pressure: Systolic between 120–129 mm Hg and diastolic under 80
  • Stage 1 Hypertension: 130–139 systolic or 80–89 diastolic
  • Stage 2 Hypertension: 140/90 mm Hg or higher
  • Hypertensive Crisis: +180 systolic and/or +120 diastolic

Many people are surprised to learn they fall into a higher category, especially if they were once considered healthy under older guidelines. That’s why knowing the new normal blood pressure is essential to understanding personal risk.

Why the Change Matters for Seniors

Men and women over age 55 are now more likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure. In fact, nearly 70–79% of men in this group meet the threshold for hypertension under the updated standard, says the ACC.

This is why the ideal blood pressure for seniors is now defined more carefully. It’s less about age-based averages and more about reducing preventable risks. If your last check was a few years ago, it may be time to review your numbers again.

What’s an Acceptable Blood Pressure for Seniors?

The acceptable blood pressure for seniors is now considered to be under 120/80 mm Hg. That’s a shift from earlier targets, which sometimes went as high as 150/80 for older adults. The goal is to minimize strain on the heart, protect organs, and prevent long-term complications.

These numbers are a general guide. Everyone is different, so it’s important to work with your provider to determine the best plan for your health.

What Raises Blood Pressure With Age?

Aging alone can raise your risk, but several risk factors also contribute:

  • High salt or processed food intake
  • Tobacco use
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Being overweight
  • Stress and poor sleep
  • Certain medications or health conditions, like diabetes

Learning which habits elevate your blood pressure numbers can help you make small changes that add up.

How to Help Lower High Blood Pressure

If your doctor says your blood pressure is elevated or you’re at stage 1 hypertension, they may suggest tracking your blood pressure at home and adjusting your routine.

These strategies are often recommended alongside medications:

  • Eat a heart-friendly diet (low sodium, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)
  • Reduce stress through mindfulness or gentle movement like Tai Chi
  • Aim for better sleep each night
  • Exercise regularly — walking counts
  • Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco
  • Lose weight if advised by your provider

Working with a health professional is key. You don’t need to manage these changes alone.

Living Well With Support

Understanding your numbers is the first step. Getting the right support to maintain healthy habits is the next step. Whether you live independently or receive support through long-term care, consistent guidance helps reduce risks over time.

At Double Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care, we simplify health routines through daily meals, scheduled movement, and medication management. Our communities also offer wellness activities that support cardiovascular health and the new normal blood pressure for seniors.

When needed, residents also benefit from coordination with local providers, check-ins from team members, and a daily structure that promotes long-term stability.

Double Creek Assisted Living and Memory Care Helps You Stay on Track

We help older adults stay proactive about their health. Whether you need help understanding blood pressure changes or you’re looking for a simpler routine, we’re here.

Discover how we support older adults with high blood pressure through personalized lifestyle programs and consistent care, without the stress of managing it alone. Contact us today to simplify the journey to senior living near you.

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The information presented on or through the website is made available solely for general information purposes. We do not warrant the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of this information. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. The information contained herein does not constitute the giving of medical, health, or fitness advice. Users of the website must consult their physicians regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to their conditions. We disclaim all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on such materials by you or any other visitor to the website, or by anyone who may be informed of any of its contents.

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