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High blood pressure linked to walking difficulties in elderly2 August 2006 Higher than normal blood pressure could be a factor for walking difficulties later in life, according to a new study. The study, published in the Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences, analysed the gait and balance of 888 elderly patients, to determine whether blood pressure is a factor in the decline in walking abilities in old age. "After memory loss, the biggest concern of older individuals is loss of mobility," said Dr Raj Shah, medical director of the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Centre's Memory Clinic. "If high blood pressure is impacting gait, it is a risk factor that possibly can be controlled in order to help people stay active as they age." A team of researchers at the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center in the US measured the blood pressure and cognitive function of the patients and recorded how easily they walked in a variety of tasks - such as the time and number of steps needed to walk eight feet. The researchers then compared these results to blood pressure readings, finding that on average, lower limb function declined nearly 29 percent faster in people with a systolic (when the heart is contracted) blood pressure of 160 mmHg, compared to those with a normal systolic blood pressure of 120 mmHg. Although the researchers admit they don't know why high blood pressure affects gait and walking, they hope that further research could help elderly people maintain good mobility in old age. Dr Shah said: "Gait difficulties are very common in older adults. We hope our research will lead to better treatment options and to preventive measures that will help older adults maintain active, independent lives." Related links
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