More older adults should be checking blood pressure at home
A new study has shed light on how many people check their own blood pressure, and what makes them more likely to do so. Less than half of people aged 50 to 80 who take blood pressure medications or have a health condition that requires blood pressure control regularly check their own blood pressure.
A new study has shed light on how many people check their own blood pressure, and what makes them more likely to do so.
Less than half (48%) of people aged 50 to 80 who take blood pressure medications or have a health condition that requires blood pressure control regularly check their own blood pressure, according to a team of researchers from the University of Michigan.
Of these people, only 55% own a blood pressure monitor. Some said they don’t use it, and among those who do, only around half shared their readings with a health provider. But they were 10 times more likely to check their blood pressure outside of health care settings than those who don't own one.
Among the 62% who said a health care provider encouraged them to check their blood pressure at home, they were three and a half times more likely to do so.
The researchers, who analysed data from 1,247 people, argue that their findings suggest that patients should be informed about the importance of blood pressure monitoring, and sharing their readings with clinicians.
If you need help with monitoring your own blood pressure at home or are thinking about starting, take a look at our home monitoring hub. Here you can find resources for home monitoring, see our simple steps to get an accurate reading and make the most out of home monitoring. This will help you to measure and manage your blood pressure at home.
The focus of our Know Your Numbers! Week campaign is also now on home blood pressure monitoring. It takes place every September and this year will run between 4-10 September. Why not see how you can get involved.
Professor Graham MacGregor, Chair of Blood Pressure UK said
“Every September, our own Know Your Numbers! Week highlights the importance of knowing your blood pressure numbers in the same way you know their height and weight”.
“These findings highlight just how many of us aren’t prioritising such a simple step towards having a healthy lifestyle.”