Is Your Blood Pressure Normal for Your Age? Understanding Hypertension with Dr. Ajit Menon | Gen S Life

Is Your Blood Pressure Normal for Your Age? Understanding Hypertension with Dr. Ajit Menon

In this insightful Gen S Life episode, Dr. Ajit Menon breaks down the latest medical understanding of what constitutes normal blood pressure and how hypertension should be approached particularly among older adults.

Normal Blood Pressure Today
As per new medical guidelines, the ideal blood pressure for adults of all age groups is around 130/80 mmHg. Earlier, a common but now outdated formula suggested that systolic pressure (the top number) could increase with age — for example, 120 + 2×Age. Dr. Menon clarifies that this is no longer accepted, and higher readings are not considered “normal for age.”

Hypertension & Its Management

• Above 140/90 mmHg: Requires medical treatment.

• Between 130/80 and 140/90: Can often be managed through lifestyle changes, including exercise, diet control, and meditation.

• Persistent high readings beyond 140/90 demand medical supervision and possible medication.

Elderly Hypertension: A Special Case
In older adults, Isolated Systolic Hypertension occurs when the upper BP rises (170–180) while the lower remains normal. This happens because aging arteries lose flexibility. Dr. Menon advises that BP must be reduced gradually to around 130–150, as sudden drops can cause giddiness or fatigue.

At Gen S Life, the goal is to simplify health education for every generation. Watch the full discussion with Dr. Menon to understand how to manage your blood pressure safely and effectively.