The appropriate blood pressure for an 85-year-old depends on various factors, including overall health, medical history, and medications. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed. According to the American Heart Association, people aged 65 and older should ideally have a blood pressure reading lower than 130/80 mm Hg. The usual target blood pressure for reducing the risk of hypertension in patients over the age of 85 years is 150/80 mmHg. However, a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine suggests that lowering an older persons systolic blood pressure to 120 mmHg or lower reduces the risk of heart disease, but increases the chance of kidney changes. It is important to note that blood pressure targets for older adults differ among medical organizations, and a doctor should be consulted to determine the best course of action to help control blood pressure. Lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, eating a heart-healthy diet thats low in salt, and limiting alcohol can help regulate blood pressure levels.