May is Hypertension Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to take stock of one of the most common — and most preventable — health conditions affecting older adults.
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, affects more than one billion adults worldwide. It's often called the "silent killer" because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms, yet it quietly raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. The good news? There is a lot you can do about it.
Know your numbers
A healthy blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. High blood pressure is generally defined as 130/80 mmHg or higher. If you haven't had your blood pressure checked recently, this month is a great reason to book an appointment with your healthcare provider.
For older adults already managing high blood pressure, research suggests that aiming for a lower blood pressure target — rather than a more relaxed one — can meaningfully reduce the risk of stroke. The right target for you will depend on your age, overall health, and other conditions, so it's worth having that conversation with your doctor.
Lifestyle changes make a real difference
Diet is one of the most powerful tools for managing blood pressure. Research shows that working with a registered dietitian — a trained expert who can help you make sense of all the nutrition information out there — can lead to meaningful reductions in blood pressure. It may also reduce body weight, lower cardiovascular risk, and even decrease the need for medication.
In Canada, free dietitian services are available through many provincial hotlines, local public health units, and community health centres. If you have private health insurance, nutrition counselling in a private setting may also be covered.
When medication is part of the plan
Lifestyle changes are always a first step, but they don't work the same way for everyone. For many older adults, blood pressure-lowering medications are an important and effective part of managing the condition. Research shows these medications can reduce the risk of death, heart attack, and stroke in people with moderate to severe high blood pressure.
That said, up to half of people stop taking their blood pressure medications within the first year — often due to side effects, cost, or the challenge of managing multiple prescriptions. If staying on track is difficult for you, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Simple strategies like using a pill organizer, setting phone reminders, or scheduling regular medication reviews can make a big difference.
This Hypertension Awareness Month, take one step
Whether it's booking a blood pressure check, calling a dietitian, or having a conversation with your doctor about your treatment plan — small actions can have a big impact on your long-term health.
For trusted, evidence-based resources on managing high blood pressure and aging well, read through our resources below.
Learn more at our June Live Event
Register now for our upcoming free 60-minute webinar with family physician Dr. Doug Oliver to learn more about what has changed in the recent Hypertension Canada guidelines, and how high blood pressure is diagnosed and treated today.
