80% of those over 80 have high blood pressure, but Grandma and Grandpa were afraid to treat it, fearing side effects.  But that game is OVER, after a huge, placebo-controlled study with patients whose average age was 84 showed dramatic improvement in stroke, heart attack, and death rates.  There is no question that  many of our Moms and Dads should go on a diuretic or perhaps a combination product like Hyzaar if blood pressure is uncontrolled high.  Diabetes and previous heart attacks and strokes may change the drug combination that’s recommended.  Another large study put an end to the diabetic/statin question – the answer to the question is YES!  Diabetics significantly lower their risk of heart attack and stroke by taking a statin.