Older persons with hypertension are at higher risk for which of the following events?

Older individuals with hypertension face an increased risk for a multitude of cardiovascular and renal events, making the choice of “All of the above” accurate. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for acute renal insufficiency, as it can damage the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste from the blood effectively. This can lead to a decline in renal function, particularly in older adults whose kidney reserve may already be compromised.

In addition, hypertension is associated with atrial fibrillation, a common cardiac arrhythmia that can cause complications such as stroke. The electrical pathways in the heart can be altered due to the effects of chronic high blood pressure, increasing the likelihood of developing irregular heart rhythms.

Furthermore, heart failure is a critical concern for older adults with hypertension. Prolonged high blood pressure can lead to left ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement of the heart muscle), stiffening of the heart, and ultimately the heart's inability to pump effectively. This results in heart failure, characterized by symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.

Combining these insights, the correct response emphasizes the multifaceted risks posed by hypertension in older adults, making them vulnerable to a range of severe health issues, including acute renal insufficiency