As we age, our bodies tend to change in ways that can impact our health. One such change is a decrease in the production of natural blood pressure regulating hormones, which can lead to an increased risk for hypertension and other chronic conditions. If you’re one of the many seniors who are concerned about your blood pressure, or if you want to be proactive about monitoring it, read on for our top picks for the best blood pressure monitors for seniors.
The Different Types of Monitors
When it comes to monitoring blood pressure, there are a variety of different monitors available on the market. However, not all of them are suitable for everyone. To help you determine which is the best monitor for your needs, we’ve outlined the different types below.
Classic Monitors: These monitors use a cuff and mercury or an electronic sensor to measure blood pressure. They’re usually more accurate than other types of monitors, but they can be more expensive. Some people find them uncomfortable to use because they require manual adjustment of the cuff size.
Pulse Monitors: These monitors use a sensor that measures heart rate in addition to blood pressure. They’re often popular among people who want to track their heart health, but they may not be as accurate as other monitors when it comes to measuring blood pressure. In addition, pulse monitors can be more expensive than other types of monitors.
Smart Monitors: Smart monitors are similar to pulse monitors in that they also track heart rate, but they also have features that allow users to track other aspects of their health, such as sleep quality or exercise levels. They tend to be more affordable than other types of monitors and
What to Look for in a Monitor
There are many factors to consider when purchasing a blood pressure monitor for seniors, such as the type of monitor, accuracy, and price. Here are five key things to look for in a monitor:
1. Type of Monitor: Monitors can be classified into two main types: manual or automatic. Manual monitors require a user to read their own pressure readings and record them on a chart or diary. Automatic monitors measure the pressure automatically and provide a reading right away. Automatic monitors are usually more accurate, but they may be less user-friendly.
2. Accuracy: The accuracy of a blood pressure monitor is determined by how frequently it measures your blood pressure and compares it to the standard reference value. A good monitor should be able to measure your blood pressure within 2-5 mmHg of the standard reference value.
3. Price: Blood pressure monitors range in price from around $20 to $200. However, the quality of the monitor and the features it offers are usually worth the price.
4. Size and Weight: Most monitors are small and lightweight enough to be worn easily on your wrist or arm.
5. Features: A few important features to look for in a blood pressure monitor
How to Use a Monitor
When it comes to choosing the best blood pressure monitor for seniors, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to identify the type of blood pressure monitor that will be best suited for your needs. There are three main types of monitors available on the market today: traditional mercury devices, electronic monitors with cuffs, and automated blood pressure machines.
Traditional mercury devices are the oldest type of monitor and require a doctor or healthcare professional to measure your blood pressure. They can be very inaccurate and often require you to sit still for a long period of time while the device measures your blood pressure. Electronic monitors with cuffs are more accurate than mercury devices, but they also require you to put on a special cuff and then attach the monitor to your arm. Automated blood pressure machines are the most common type of monitor available today and they use a sensor that is placed under your mattress or in your shoe. These monitors are generally more accurate than electronic monitors with cuffs, but they can be more expensive.
Once you have decided on the type of monitor that is best suited for your needs, it is important to get familiar with the different features available on each model. Some common features include:
How to Take Your Monitor Reading
How to Take Your Monitor Reading
If you’re a senior citizen, it’s important to take your blood pressure monitor reading with care. There are a few things you need to keep in mind when taking your reading.
1. Don’t Sit or Stand Too Tightly: If you sit or stand too tightly, the cuff on your arm can’t measure your blood pressure properly. Make sure to adjust the cuff to fit comfortably around your arm.
2. Wiggle the Cuff: When taking your reading, wiggle the cuff gently several times to ensure an accurate measurement. The cuff should be tight but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
3. Hold Your Arm Still: If you move around a lot while taking your reading, the monitor may not be able to get an accurate reading. Try holding your arm still for as long as possible when taking the reading.
4. Wait at Least Five Minutes After Taking Your Reading: Wait at least five minutes after taking your reading before doing anything else. This will allow the monitor time to capture an accurate reading.
Conclusion
There are a lot of different blood pressure monitors on the market, and it can be tricky to decide which one is right for you. To help make your decision easier, we have put together this list of the best blood pressure monitors for seniors. Each monitor has its own unique features that could make it the perfect choice for you. So whether you are looking for a simple monitor that will show you your average blood pressure readings over time or something more sophisticated with features like heart rate monitoring, we hope that our list has helped you find the perfect blood pressure monitor for your needs.