Taking older adults off their blood pressure medication was linked to slower cognitive decline, especially in those with dementia, a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found.
The research, involving more than 12,000 participants, challenges previous assumptions about hypertension treatment in older adults and raises questions about optimal medication management in long-term care settings.
“Our results … suggest caution regarding intensive BP [blood pressure] control in older adults living in nursing homes, particularly those with cognitive impairment.” the authors wrote.
The researchers linked hypertension drug prescription with the over-prescription problem in older adults. Around half of older adults are taking five or more medications, which can present various health risks. Antihypertensive drugs are a major driver of polypharmacy, with 70 percent of older adults prescribed hypertension drugs….