But if changes in lifestyle don’t help, prescription medications have proven very effective in lowering blood pressure. If your aging parent lives in an assisted living community, ask about exercise programs and meal options that are low in sodium. You can help your elderly loved one take an active role in lowering their blood pressure with simple lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity and eating healthy, balanced meals. Managing stress. Try simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation.If your loved one smokes, find out how you can help them quit by asking their doctor. If your loved one chooses to drink alcohol, limit it to no more than one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.

Drinking alcohol can raise your blood pressure. Try to limit sodium to no more than 2,300 milligrams per day. It was designed specifically to help lower blood pressure.

Eating a heart-healthy diet low in salt. The DASH diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish, and low-fat dairy foods.

Blood pressure (BP) readings: What is normal and when is it high blood pressure (.

Losing weight. If your loved one is overweight, every 2 pounds lost can help reduce blood pressure by 1 mm Hg. in an adult is considered normal when readings are lower than 120/80 mmHg.

If mobility or health conditions are a problem, older adults should try to be as physically active as possible. This might include walking, outdoor chores, or weight training. National guidelines recommend adults of all ages engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.

Blood pressure chart by gender and age