Final answer:
In patients aged 60 years and older with hypertension, pharmacologic treatment is recommended if the blood pressure is persistently elevated to 140/90 mmHg or above. The decision to initiate treatment depends on various factors, including coexisting medical conditions, overall cardiovascular risk, and patient preferences. Lifestyle changes can also be attempted as a first-line approach to lower blood pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Initiating pharmacologic treatment for hypertension in patients aged 60 years and older depends on several considerations. The general recommendation is to start medication if the blood pressure is persistently elevated to 140/90 mmHg or above. However, individualized treatment plans should be based on factors such as the presence of coexisting medical conditions, overall cardiovascular risk, and patient preferences. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake and adopting a healthier diet, may be tried initially to lower blood pressure. If medications are needed, first-line options include thiazide-diuretics, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs.