C. ENUKU.

Hypertension remains a leading cardiovascular risk factor among elderly populations worldwide, with age-related physiological changes, lifestyle behaviors, and socio- demographic characteristics serving as critical determinants. This study assessed age-related factors in the development of hypertension among elderly patients attending the Consultant Out-Patient Department at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed involving 191 elderly patients diagnosed with hypertension. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics with mean scores to determine the level of influence of various factors. The study revealed high influence across all three dimensions examined. Lifestyle risk factors demonstrated a grand mean of 3.25, with high-salt diet consumption showing the strongest impact. Socio-demographic factors yielded a grand mean of 3.18, with low-income levels and limited healthcare access being most influential. Age-related factors showed a grand mean of 3.27, with vascular changes due to advancing age scoring highest at 3.38. The majority of respondents were females aged 65-69 years, predominantly married, with primary or secondary education, having lived with hypertension for one to five years. Multiple interacting factors contribute significantly to hypertension development among elderly patients, with age-related physiological changes, lifestyle behaviors, and socioeconomic status all playing crucial roles. Comprehensive, age-appropriate interventions addressing these multifaceted determinants are essential for effective hypertension prevention and management in elderly populations.