Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of adults in the United States, and high blood pressure is one of the contributors to this. Researchers from the University of Utah Health Services have compiled evidence that suggests that if blood pressure was more effectively managed across the country, the ending result would be about 100,000 lives saved per year. How would this work? By lowering systolic blood pressure from 140 mmHg to 120 mmHg in those that are at risk, this team of researchers believes that 100,000 deaths from cardiovascular illness would be prevented.
This information comes from a newly released study called the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial. The records examined for this study took place from 1999 to 2007, but until very recently how this data could be effectively interpreted. One of the things that was discovered was that lowering systolic blood pressure from 140 to 120 significantly reduced instances of stroke, heart attacks, and death in high risk patients. They estimate that over 107,500 people would live each year by making these changes in their health. That’s a 27 percent reduction in deaths, just by focusing on getting blood pressure to a healthier level.
To effectively reduce blood pressure, researchers recommended using multiple medications and seeing a physician more frequently to help them stay updated and to more closely monitor their health situation so that adjustments can be made as needed. There were concerns raised about rapid drops in blood pressure, but researchers retorted that reducing the risk of death was better than short term concerns that might arise.
In our elderly loved ones, we have a certain amount of input and influence over their care. Some of us have more influence than others, especially those that have power of attorney and are the sole decision makers when it comes to the health treatment and senior care that our parents or grandparents receive. Being well informed about the dangers of high blood pressure is a good way for us to help our loved ones. Many seniors struggle with multiple health issues, and one of the more common problems that arises is hypertension. By taking steps to help our family live healthier lives, we can help them to live longer and happier lives, increasing the quality of life that they experience during their senior years.
When someone suffers from a stroke or a heart attack, drastic changes in lifestyle often occur, and senior care is often needed. In-home care is one of the more common types of care that is being turned to these days because of the lower costs and more personalized attention that is given. But not all people can get cost effective in-home care because of their insurance policies. Instead, nursing homes are overused, and the quality of life of many individuals is lessened. No one wants to see someone that they love need to go through something like this. While senior care is sometimes unavoidable, helping your parent to live healthier now can decrease the likelihood that they will need any type of senior care in the near future.
If you have questions about a loved one’s blood pressure, encourage them to meet with their doctor for more information.
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