Near the end of 2017, the American Heart Association revised its blood pressure guidelines. It used to be that a blood pressure of 140/90 was considered high blood pressure (hypertension). Those numbers were dropped to 130/80. This increased the number of Americans who have hypertension.
In addition to the change in the classification of what counts as high blood pressure, people with a blood pressure of 120 to 129 over 80 or less now counts as an elevated blood pressure. People who are considered to have a normal blood pressure are less than 120 over less than 80.
What Does This Mean for Your Parents?
If your parents have a blood pressure higher than the new normal range, they will likely be told they need to make lifestyle changes. Some of those changes include stopping smoking, losing weight, eating healthy, reducing sodium and sugars, and exercising at least 150 minutes a week.
The recommended 150 minutes of exercise is aimed towards moderate activity that gets the heart pumping harder. A brisk walk, swimming laps, a Zumba program, or working out on an elliptical machine are all examples of recommended fitness routines.
A diet should be low in fat, sugars, and excess sodium. The focus of your parent’s diet should be vegetables, fruits, grains, and a small portion of lean protein like chicken breast or fish. Many doctors recommend the Mediterranean or the DASH diets for those who need help creating healthy menus and portions.
Tips for Getting an Accurate Blood Pressure Reading
Going into the doctor’s office can lead to stress. This can make a person’s blood pressure reading higher than it is at home. Talk to your doctor about the best blood pressure monitor to have at home. Taking readings at home when you’re relaxed is a good way to get accurate readings. When your parent goes to the doctor, they can bring a journal of readings taken at home.
It’s best to take a blood pressure reading when waking up in the morning and again at night before going to bed. Take at least two readings to make sure the results are correct. When taking the reading, your parent should be sitting down in a comfortable position.
When your parent goes to the doctor, they should also bring the blood pressure monitor they use at home. The doctor can compare the measurement that monitor takes to the one in his or her medical office.
High blood pressure can also be controlled through prescription medications. If your parent is given medications, make sure they take them properly. Home health care aides can help remind your parent when it’s time to take medications. Home health care providers can also help with diet and exercise. Call our home health care agency to find out more.
Sources: https://professional.heart.org/idc/groups/ahamah-public/@wcm/@sop/@smd/documents/downloadable/ucm_497371.pdf
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Health Care Services in Medfield MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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