How does age generally influence blood pressure readings?

As individuals age, several physiological changes occur in the cardiovascular system that typically lead to an increase in blood pressure. One significant factor is the stiffening of the blood vessels. Over time, the elasticity of the arteries diminishes due to various factors, including the accumulation of plaque and changes in the vascular structure and function. This increased stiffness means that the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the circulatory system, leading to elevated systolic blood pressure readings.

Additionally, age-related changes in the regulation of blood pressure, such as hormonal changes and lifestyle factors, can contribute to these increases. Therefore, the general trend is that as one ages, blood pressure tends to increase due to these changes in blood vessel characteristics and overall cardiovascular health. This understanding is key in managing and monitoring hypertension, especially in older populations who may be at higher risk for cardiovascular events.