Quick Facts

• About 50% of U.S. adults need to check blood pressure at home more frequently than office visits allow
• New 2025 AHA/ACC guidelines warn against using smartwatches and cuffless devices for blood pressure readings
• Home monitoring can lead to better blood pressure control, especially in the first few months of use

Nearly half of American adults should monitor their blood pressure at home, according to updated guidelines from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology released in August 2025.

The new recommendations mark the first major update since 2017. They emphasize home monitoring while issuing strong warnings about emerging technology that promises convenience but lacks accuracy.

Smartwatch Warning Issued

The updated guidelines specifically caution against relying on cuffless devices, including smartwatches, for clinical blood pressure measurements. These devices have not demonstrated sufficient precision for medical decision-making.

“At-home blood pressure monitors give us a clearer picture of how you’re doing day-to-day, especially if we’re adjusting medications or just keeping an eye on things between visits,” says Dr. Joseph Lodato, a cardiologist at Kaiser Permanente.

Growing Need for Home Monitoring

High blood pressure affects nearly half of U.S. adults, with 80% lacking proper control, according to CDC data. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates one in three adults aged 30 to 79 have hypertension, with only 25% achieving good control.

Home monitoring offers several advantages over office visits. Dr. Stephen Yeh, a board-certified emergency physician, notes that home monitoring “allows for a more consistent record of readings and comfortable environment.”

Technology Adoption Surges

Nearly 70% of seniors using home blood pressure monitors in 2025 prefer Bluetooth-enabled devices. These wireless monitors reduce recording errors by half compared to manual logbooks. More than 80% of healthcare providers now incorporate wireless blood pressure data in telehealth visits.

Research shows self-monitoring leads to better blood pressure control, particularly during the first few months of use. For seniors, consistent monitoring helps detect early hypertension signs, reduces stroke and heart disease risk, and helps doctors adjust medications.

Device Selection Critical

The AHA recommends automatic, cuff-style upper arm monitors. Wrist and finger monitors provide less reliable readings. Survey data shows accuracy ranks as the top priority for 56% of users, followed by user-friendliness at 25.5%.

Dr. Rana Afifi, a vascular surgeon at the University of Texas, warns that incorrect cuff sizes can skew results and faulty equipment may cause unnecessary stress or doctor visits.

Safety and Coverage Concerns

The FDA received adverse event reports about home monitors in March 2025, including allegations of inflated readings that could lead to unnecessary medication increases. While FDA clearance ensures safety, it does not validate accuracy.

Insurance coverage remains limited. Original Medicare typically excludes home blood pressure monitors, though Medicaid now covers them in 42 states. Devices range from $69 to $169.

Read more: I’m concerned about my blood pressure. Can I check it at home?