8 Things to Know About High Blood Pressure and Dementia

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, about 116 million, or just about half of all Americans, live with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Untreated hypertension is very dangerous, as it puts people at risk for heart disease, stroke, and chronic health issues.

Even if you are aware of the seriousness of high blood pressure, you might not know that it is a risk factor for dementia. Here are 8 important things to know about high blood pressure and dementia:

1. A growing body of research demonstrates that high blood pressure – especially in middle age -- is a risk factor for dementia. This is not to say that if your loved one has high blood pressure, they will definitely develop dementia. However, high blood pressure increases the chances for dementia. (Livingston, Gill et al. “Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission.” Lancet (London, England) vol. 396,10248 (2020): 413-446. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(20)30367-6)
    
2. Currently, there is not a simple explanation for the link between high blood pressure and dementia. We do know that high blood pressure puts excessive strain on blood vessels which in turn can result in the brain not receiving adequate levels of nutrition and oxygen. Consequently, thought processes can break down. Further, high blood pressure can lead to stroke. About 30 percent of individuals who survive a stroke develop dementia.
    
3. High blood pressure is a risk factor for dementia across all racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Research has shown that in addition to genetics and other environmental factors, high blood pressure likely is part of the explanation for why African Americans have a higher rate of dementia. It may even be that untreated high blood pressure for African Americans is an even greater risk factor than for other racial and ethnic groups.
    
4. There is good news! Research has shown that the risk for dementia decreases when a person can get their high blood pressure under control. There are medications that are very good at lowering blood pressure. 
    
5. It is extremely important that your loved one knows what their blood pressure is. Usually, there are no symptoms for high blood pressure – that is why it is known as “The Silent Killer.” If your loved one’s insurance covers a yearly “wellness check,” they should be sure to take advantage of this benefit so their doctor can check their blood pressure among other things. Be sure to check your loved one’s plan first before scheduling any medical appointment!
    
6. There are often local opportunities for a free blood pressure screening, such as at pharmacies, community health fairs or special events put on by local hospitals or nonprofits.
    
7. A heart-healthy diet that is low in sodium, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and other lifestyle changes can help to lower blood pressure. You and your loved one can visit The American Heart Association to learn more about high blood pressure and the healthy lifestyle changes that can help.
    
8. It is very important that we all spread the word about the link between high blood pressure and dementia! Millions of Americans live with high blood pressure and do not even know it – or they ignore it. Be sure to spread the word and encourage your loved ones to get their blood pressure checked and treated if it is high. You can learn more at the National Institute of Health’s “Mind Your Risks®” informational site.

Do you have a loved one who is living with dementia? The Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging offers WeCare…Because You, a helpful resource for caregivers. Our phone-based program of care coordination and coaching for family caregivers will provide you with tools and supports to make each day feel doable.

This article was written as a part of the Expansion of Dementia-Capable Communities within Urban and Rural Settings in Ohio using Evidence-Based and Informed Programming project, funded by the Administration for Community Living, Alzheimer’s Disease Program’s Initiative (#90ADPI0052-01-00). Learn more here.