Effects of audio relaxation programs for blood pressure reduction in older adults

Background

Stress management is one element of the lifestyle modification that is recommended for blood pressure control. Reduction in sympathetic arousal may be achieved through a series of audio relaxation training.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term and long-term effects of two audio relaxation programs for blood pressure reduction in older adults.

Methods

This clinical randomized study consists of 12-sessions of intervention, with one-month and three-month follow up measures. 41 older adults were randomly assigned to either listening to a 12-minute audio relaxation program or a 12-minute Mozart andante. At each session, blood pressures were recorded.

Results

For both groups, the reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressures after the 12-session intervention training was statistically and clinically significant. The reduction in systolic blood pressure was greater in the audio relaxation group than the Mozart group. The adherence to the program at one-month and three-month was 54% and 66% respectively. The blood pressure at one-month and three-month were not significantly different than the initial measurement.

Conclusions

Significant blood pressure reduction can be achieved through a brief 12-minute audio relaxation program with older adults. Guided relaxation may be more effective in lowering blood pressure than plain music.