Blood pressure isn't just a number your doctor checks during your annual checkup—it's an important indicator of your heart health. And as you get older, this number becomes more important than ever.
Knowing how your blood pressure changes over time and what is considered healthy for your age group allows you to take proactive steps to protect yourself from serious illnesses like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
Why blood pressure is important
Blood pressure is the force with which blood pushes against the artery walls as your heart pumps it through your body. It's one of the most revealing indicators of your cardiovascular health—and a key factor in identifying risks before they become crises.
Although ideal blood pressure is often stated to be around 120/80 mmHg, the value considered "normal" can vary somewhat depending on age, health history, and other individual factors.
For most people, the following is a guideline.
| B0d printing | Systolic (top number) mm Hg | Diastolic (lower number) mm Hg |
|---|---|---|
| Low | Less than 90 | Less than 60 |
| Optimal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Normal | 120–129 | 80–84 |
| Normal to high | 130–139 | 85–89 |
| High | Greater than 140 | Greater than 90 |
A blood pressure reading of approximately 120/80 mm Hg is often considered a typical value.
