High blood pressure (hypertension) reduces blood flow to the brain and may exacerbate Alzheimer’s symptoms, suggests researchers at the University of Pittsburgh. They examined older adults both with and without Alzheimer’s. Though all participants with hypertension showed significantly reduced levels of blood flow in the brain, the study participants who were living with Alzheimer’s had the lowest levels of blood flow.

More than 40 percent of African Americans have high blood pressure. The authors say that the study shows that “good vascular health is also good for the brain." If you have a family member or friend living with Alzheimer’s, visit the U.S. National Institute on Aging for more information on how to assist them in leading a healthy lifestyle.