The Effects of Blood Pressure Reduction on Cerebral Perfusion and Cognition in the Elderly Population

Medication Induced Blood Pressure Reduction; Assessment of Cerebral Perfusion and Cognition in Hypertensive Elderly

The purpose of this study is to determine if a reduction in systolic blood pressure induced by anti-hypertensive medication results in changes in cerebral perfusion and cognition in hypertensive elderly. Hypertensive elderly will be treated using open-label anti-hypertensive medication for 8-12 weeks. Changes in cerebral perfusion and cognition will be assessed before and after treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age >= 70 years
• Systolic office blood pressure >= 160 mmHg
• Systolic home blood pressure >= 155 mmHg

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diabetes Mellitus
• Atrial fibrillation
• Dementia
• Renal failure requiring dialysis
• Life expectancy of less than 1 year
• Disabling stroke
• Contraindication for MRI or anti-hypertensive medication
• Systolic blood pressure > 220 mmHg