● There is an increased risk for LOW blood pressure, particularly when you stand up on blood pressure medications. This risk increases as you age, when you take multiple medications, and when you lose weight/muscle mass. It leads to feeling lightheaded, unsteady, and falling.

● As well, as age and dementia progresses, we are less strict about your blood pressure targets. Generally the risks of tight blood pressure control outweigh the benefits.

● In general, for those with advanced dementia, we aim to keep your systolic blood pressure (top number) less than 150 rather than less than 130. This may not apply in rare scenarios for individuals with certain heart conditions. We would review your medical history to see if this applies to you.

● If you would like to check your blood pressure at home, you can purchase a cuff from Amazon for around $20-25. You do not need to get the more expensive bluetooth enabled ones which can run $50-70

● We can make the medication change and let your primary or cardiology doc know OR if you prefer, you can review with your primary or cardiology doc first. Once we make the change, we would recommend a follow-up in 1 month with blood pressure readings.

Version: YT 12/30/2024