Malahayati International Journal of Nursing and Health Science
Vol. 9 No. 5 (2026): Volume 9 Number 5

Association between anxiety levels and hypertension among older adults

Nisa Fajriah (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Sukabumi)
Dedi Wahyudin (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Kesehatan Sukabumi)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: As individuals age, older adults experience significant physiological decline, including reduced vascular elasticity, which contributes to the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Biologically, persistent anxiety triggers the release of stress hormones, such as catecholamines and cortisol, which increase sympathetic nervous system activity and subsequently elevate blood pressure. Purpose: To examine the association between anxiety levels and hypertension among older adults. Method: This study employed a correlational research design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 313 older adults from Cimanggu Village were recruited using a cluster random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured closed-ended questionnaire that had been tested for validity and reliability. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi-square test. Results: Most respondents experienced severe anxiety (203; 64.9%). Furthermore, hypertension was identified in 195 respondents (62.3%). A statistically significant relationship was found between anxiety levels and the incidence of hypertension among older adults (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Anxiety levels were significantly associated with hypertension among older adults. These findings suggest that hypertension management in older adults should adopt a comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of health.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

minh

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Nursing Public Health

Description

Malahayati International Journal of Nursing and Health Science is a peer-reviewed journal and provides a platform to publish areas of nursing and health science. The journal also seeks to advance the quality of research by publishing papers introducing or elaborating on new methods in nursing and ...