FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What type of blood pressure abnormality is more commonly found in the Western elderly?

1. Isolated elevation of the diastolic BP

2. Narrow pulse pressure

3. Elevation of the systolic BP

4. Elevation of the BP with standing

The correct answer is: Elevation of the systolic BP

The elevation of the systolic blood pressure is more commonly found in the Western elderly due to various physiological changes associated with aging. As individuals age, the arterial walls can become stiffer and less elastic, which primarily affects the systolic blood pressure. This condition is known as isolated systolic hypertension and is characterized by an increase in systolic figures while diastolic pressure remains stable or decreases. This trend is significant because it can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and has been associated with higher mortality rates among older adults. In clinical practice, recognizing isolated systolic hypertension is essential for appropriate management and prevention strategies in the elderly population. Understanding these changes is vital for healthcare providers as they assess and manage blood pressure in older patients, emphasizing the importance of monitoring systolic blood pressure trends over time.