As we celebrate American Heart Month this February, we must remember the role heart health plays in our seniors' well-being. A key health metric to understand and monitor is seniors' blood pressure, with regular checks providing a snapshot of their heart health.
If you're a senior or someone who cares for an older adult, you may have wondered: How frequently should we measure blood pressure?
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure refers to the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the blood vessels. It's usually measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and presented as two numbers. The first (systolic) number represents the pressure when the heart beats, while the second (diastolic) number represents the pressure when the heart rests between beats.
Maintaining optimal blood pressure ensures that the body receives an adequate supply of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function correctly. When blood pressure is too high or too low, it poses a risk to overall health.
The Importance of Regular Blood Pressure Checks for Seniors
As we age, our risk of developing high blood pressure or hypertension increases. This is often due to age-related changes in the heart and blood vessels, such as hardening of the arteries. Hypertension is a serious concern because it can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Regular blood pressure monitoring can help detect hypertension early, thereby allowing us to take preventive measures. It also provides a window into one's heart health, as consistent readings within the normal range suggest a healthy heart.
How Often Should It Be Measured?
Generally, seniors should measure their blood pressure at least once a month. However, this could vary depending on certain factors. For example, a senior with a history of heart conditions, or who takes medication affecting blood pressure, may need to measure it more frequently, perhaps weekly or daily.
Furthermore, the timing of these checks can also influence readings. It's recommended to measure blood pressure in the morning before eating or taking any medication, and again in the evening before bed.
What to Do With Blood Pressure Information
Keeping track of blood pressure readings over time can be a valuable tool in managing heart health. By documenting these measurements, healthcare providers can identify trends, such as an upward or downward shift in readings.
The interpretation of blood pressure readings is fairly straightforward. The American Heart Association defines normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 mmHg. If seniors' readings consistently exceed this, it's essential to seek medical attention. Similarly, consult a healthcare provider if seniors' blood pressure readings are regularly below 90/60 mmHg, as it could indicate low blood pressure or hypotension.
Help With Home Care Tasks
If you or a loved one in Sheboygan, Plymouth, Cedar Grove, Port Washington, or Mount Calvary require assistance with regular blood pressure checks or any other aspect of senior care, look no further than Senior Helpers Sheboygan. Our dedicated team helps ensure the best quality of life for our seniors, tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help enhance seniors' quality of life at home.