Physiologic changes in the elderly: are they clinically important in the management of hypertension?

Age-related conditions and physiologic changes must be considered when managing the treatment of elderly hypertensives. Decreased aortic distensibility, structural changes in peripheral arteries and arterioles, reduced cardiac output and stroke volume, changes in baroreceptor sensitivity, and decreased lean body mass are factors that can influence the outcome of therapy in this patient population. Nevertheless, results from recent, well-controlled studies indicate that elderly individuals can be treated successfully and safely with antihypertensive drugs, providing care is taken in choosing an appropriate agent and adjusting dosage in light of these age-related factors.