Here’s a clear, up-to-date, no-nonsense guide to normal blood pressure by age, based on current medical guidelines (used by doctors today).
First: one important truth
👉 Blood pressure targets do NOT actually change much with age.
Older charts online often suggest “higher is OK when you’re older” — that’s outdated.
Modern guidelines focus on health outcomes, not age alone.
What blood pressure numbers mean
- Top number (systolic): pressure when the heart beats
- Bottom number (diastolic): pressure when the heart rests
Example: 120/80 mmHg
Normal blood pressure (adults, all ages)
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | < 120 | < 80 |
| Elevated | 120–129 | < 80 |
| High BP (Stage 1) | 130–139 | 80–89 |
| High BP (Stage 2) | ≥ 140 | ≥ 90 |
➡️ This applies to most adults, whether you’re 30 or 75.
“Normal” ranges by age (what doctors expect to see)
These are common ranges, not ideal goals.
Ages 18–39
- Typical healthy: 110–120 / 70–80
- Consistently above 130/80 = worth addressing
Ages 40–59
- Typical: 115–130 / 75–85
- Doctors still aim for under 130/80
Ages 60+
- Typical: 120–135 / 70–85
- Many doctors accept slightly higher systolic if dizziness or falls are a concern
- Still, under 130/80 is preferred if safely tolerated
When blood pressure is TOO LOW
Low BP can also be a problem if it causes symptoms.
⚠️ Watch for:
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
Generally concerning if:
- Below 90/60 and symptoms are present
Factors that affect “your normal”
Your doctor may individualize targets if you have:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Heart disease
- History of stroke
- Frequent falls or frailty
This is why one chart doesn’t fit everyone perfectly.
Common myths (very important)
🚫 “High blood pressure is normal as you age” → False
🚫 “Only the top number matters” → False
🚫 “You feel high blood pressure” → Usually false (it’s often silent)
Bottom line
- <120/80 is ideal at any adult age
- <130/80 is the common treatment goal
- Age alone does not justify high blood pressure
- Symptoms matter just as much as numbers
If you want, I can:
- Help you interpret your exact reading
- Explain why one number might be high
- Share natural ways to lower BP safely
- Explain home BP monitoring mistakes
Just tell me 👍
