Heart rate reactivity during minor mental stress in men in their 50s and 70s.

Modifications with aging in heart rate reactivity was investigated during minor mental stress. 27 normal male volunteers, aged 51-55 years (n = 10) and 71-74 years (n = 17), were studied in control conditions and while passing a series of 5 psychometric test measuring memory or intellectual speed. Men in their 70s had both lower heart rate baseline levels and lower reactivity during cognitive tasks.