Blood Pressure goals for people 60+?

• A. <150/90 mm Hg and <140/90 mm Hg for those with DM/CKD
• B. <120/80 for all
• C. No targets
• D. <160/100

Answer: (A)

In older adults, blood pressure targets are about balancing benefit and safety. For most people aged 60 and over, aiming for a systolic <150 mm Hg and diastolic <90 mm Hg reduces cardiovascular risk without imposing excessive treatment burdens. If the individual has diabetes or chronic kidney disease, a tighter target of <140/90 mm Hg is recommended to better protect organs and lower risk of vascular complications.

This approach reflects the evidence that while treating hypertension lowers risks, overly aggressive lowering in some older patients can cause dizziness, falls, or renal perfusion problems. The other options—<120/80 for everyone, or <160/100, or no targets—do not appropriately balance risk and benefit for the general 60+ population.