Final answer:
Cerebrovascular events in the elderly are often due to underlying cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, impacted by high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and high blood cholesterol. Preventative measures focus on blood pressure control and lifestyle modifications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cerebrovascular events, such as strokes in the elderly, can be caused by cardiovascular diseases that involve the cardiovascular system. Conditions like atherosclerosis, which may be induced by high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and high blood cholesterol, contribute significantly. The prevention of cerebrovascular events focuses on maintaining low blood pressure and managing other risk factors including old age, history of stroke, and lifestyle choices like smoking and unhealthy diet.