Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn’t 120/80 apply to everyone over 60?
Blood vessels stiffen with age, making it harder for the body to adjust blood pressure quickly — especially upon standing. Pushing blood pressure aggressively toward 120/80 in a frail older adult can increase the risk of dizziness and falls more than it reduces long-term cardiovascular risk.
How do I test for orthostatic hypotension at home?
Take your blood pressure sitting down, wait two minutes, then take it again within one minute of standing. A systolic drop of more than 20 points, or a diastolic drop of more than 10 points, along with lightheadedness, indicates orthostatic hypotension — bring this finding to your doctor.
Should I still worry about high blood pressure if I’m older?
Yes — untreated high blood pressure still silently damages blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney disease. The point isn’t to ignore high blood pressure, but to weigh treatment intensity against your individual symptoms and fall risk.
What should I do if my treatment is making me feel dizzy or unsteady?
Report this to your doctor rather than pushing through it. Symptoms like dizziness, falls, or a noticeable blood pressure drop upon standing should take priority over hitting a specific number on paper — your target may need to be adjusted.
