Updated on - 05 Feb 2026
Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against your arteries as your heart pumps. This pressure is an important vital sign for measuring overall health, just like breathing rate and pulse.
A blood pressure reading includes two numbers: systolic pressure (the upper number) and diastolic pressure (the lower number).
This article explains the normal blood pressure range for different age groups, the factors that affect it and how to maintain optimal health.
What is the normal blood pressure range for different age groups?
The normal blood pressure range varies with age and usually increases as a person ages. For example, a normal range for an infant is lower than that for a senior citizen, which is why doctors use different standards for different age groups.
For children, blood pressure is measured using percentile charts that take the child’s age, gender and height into account. In general, the reading increases as a child grows into adolescence.
For adults, a stable blood pressure range is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Readings higher than this can indicate hypertension stage 1 or 2.
For senior citizens and older adults, the normal adult range still applies, but systolic pressure may rise due to stiffening of the arteries. Readings up to 140/90 mmHg are considered acceptable in older adults, although maintaining systolic pressure below 130 mmHg is recommended for individuals above 65 years of age.
How is blood pressure measured?
A blood pressure cuff, known as a sphygmomanometer, is used to measure blood pressure. The cuff is wrapped tightly around your upper arm and inflated until blood flow temporarily stops. It is then gradually deflated while your doctor checks your pulse with a stethoscope to detect any abnormalities. This device comes in both manual and digital versions and can be used at home or in a doctor’s office.
To obtain an accurate reading, rest for at least 5 minutes before taking the measurement. Avoid caffeine, smoking or exercise for 30 minutes prior. Place your arm on a table with your palm facing up and wrap the cuff snugly around your arm.
For reliable results, take at least two readings, waiting a minute or two between each. The average of these readings gives the most accurate measure of your blood pressure.
Factors affecting blood pressure
Both unchangeable and lifestyle-related factors influence a person’s blood pressure.
A diet high in salt (sodium) can cause your body to retain fluid, increasing blood pressure. Low potassium intake can also disrupt sodium balance, leading to elevated readings.
Being overweight or obese puts extra strain on the heart and circulatory system, often leading to high blood pressure. A lack of physical movement or exercise contributes to weight gain and a higher resting heart rate.
Excessive consumption of alcohol, cigarettes or vapes can raise blood pressure. Chronic stress and certain medications, such as antidepressants or hormonal birth control pills, may also elevate readings.
Being aware of certain unchangeable factors like age, sex and genetics is also important for monitoring the risk. Older adults and individuals with a family history of hypertension face a higher risk. Men are more likely to develop high blood pressure during middle age, while women become more susceptible around menopause.
Normal blood pressure range for men
Average blood pressure tends to rise with age as blood vessels stiffen. Below are typical average readings for men, though keeping your blood pressure under 120/80 mm Hg is recommended regardless of age.
- Ages 18–39: around 119/70 mm Hg
- Ages 40–59: around 124/77 mm Hg
- Age 60+: around 133/69 mm Hg
Normal blood pressure range for women
Women usually have lower blood pressure than men, especially in young adulthood. After menopause, blood pressure can increase and sometimes exceed men’s due to hormonal changes.
Here are the typical average blood pressure readings for women by age group:
- Ages 18–39: around 110/68 mm Hg
- Ages 40–59: around 122/74 mm Hg
- Ages 60+: around 139/68 mm Hg
Normal blood pressure range for senior citizens (65+ age)
While blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg is considered normal for most adults, guidelines for seniors vary depending on overall health, medical conditions and tolerance.
Your doctor may recommend a target below 140/90 mm Hg if you are over 80, have multiple health issues or are frail, as intensive treatment could cause dizziness or falls.
For seniors with diabetes, chronic kidney disease or cardiovascular conditions, a target below 130/80 mm Hg is often advised.
Normal blood pressure range for children
Unlike adults, a single blood pressure value does not define normal for all children. A child’s reading is compared to percentile charts based on age, height and gender. As a child grows, the range for a normal blood pressure reading increases.
Below are the normal ranges for different age groups:
- Newborns: 60–90/20–60 mm Hg
- Infants (1-12 months): 80–100/55–65 mm Hg
- Toddlers (1-2 years): 90–105/55–70 mm Hg
- Preschoolers (3-5 years): 95–107/60–71 mm Hg
- School-aged (6-9 years): 95–110/60–73 mm Hg
- Preadolescent (10-11 years): 110–119/65–76 mm Hg
- Adolescents (12-15 years): 110–124/70–79 mm Hg
Categories of blood pressure range
The five main categories for adult blood pressure, as defined by the American Heart Association (AHA), are:
1. Normal
A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. Maintain this range through a heart-healthy lifestyle.
2. Elevated
An elevated blood pressure reading is defined as a systolic pressure between 120 and 129 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mm Hg. At this stage, doctors typically recommend adopting or strengthening healthy lifestyle habits.
3. Hypertension Stage 1
In this category, either the systolic pressure is between 130 and 139 mm Hg or the diastolic pressure is between 80 and 89 mm Hg. A doctor may suggest lifestyle changes and possibly medication, depending on other risk factors.
4. Hypertension Stage 2
Hypertension Stage 2 is diagnosed when the systolic pressure is 140 mm Hg or higher or the diastolic pressure is 90 mm Hg or higher. Your healthcare provider will likely prescribe medication along with significant lifestyle changes.
5. Hypertensive Crisis
A hypertensive crisis occurs when blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mm Hg. This is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate care.
How does health insurance help in managing blood pressure?
A health insurance policy helps manage blood pressure by covering medical expenses for checkups, tests, and ongoing treatment. It is crucial for chronic conditions like hypertension.
Health insurance shields you from high costs arising from frequent doctor visits, diagnostics and long-term medication. Special plans, such as senior citizen health insurance, can cover major expenses related to complications like a heart attack or stroke, reducing both financial and emotional stress.
In emergencies such as a hypertensive crisis, health insurance covers hospitalisation, ICU care, and other services, ensuring timely treatment without upfront payments through cashless facilities at network hospitals.
Conclusion
Blood pressure is an important indicator of overall health and must be maintained for proper blood and oxygen flow to the body’s organs.
It varies across age and sex, and while some factors, such as genetics, are beyond control, others, including diet, weight and exercise, can be managed effectively.
Regular monitoring and timely consultation with a healthcare professional are essential, especially if readings remain high. Pairing this with a tailored health insurance plan helps you stay financially and medically prepared.
While you make efforts to maintain your health and well-being, let us take care of you in times of illness or injury. Get personalised health insurance advice by filling out the form provided on this page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why do some people have normal readings at the doctor’s office but elevated readings at home?
This phenomenon is known as masked hypertension. It occurs when blood pressure appears normal in clinical settings but rises at home due to stress, diet or activity. It’s the opposite of white-coat hypertension and can lead to underdiagnosis. Using a validated home monitor and recording readings at different times helps identify consistent patterns.
2. How do hormonal changes affect blood pressure in different age groups?
Hormones regulate blood pressure at different life stages. During puberty, growth and sex hormones can cause fluctuations. In women, menopause raises blood pressure due to lower estrogen, while older adults face challenges due to reduced renin and aldosterone activity. Understanding these age-related hormonal shifts is key to personalised treatment.
3. Can optimal blood pressure targets differ for elderly individuals or those with chronic conditions?
Yes. While the general target is below 120/80 mmHg, seniors or patients with diabetes, kidney disease or frailty may need slightly higher, safer readings (for example, 130–139 systolic for adults over 65) to avoid side effects like dizziness or falls.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.