Scientists have discovered a significant correlation between blood pressure and outdoor temperature in a study that included a large sample of elderly adults.

The study was conducted by French scientists who monitored 8,801 French participants over the age of 65 and found that systolic and diastolic blood pressure values differed significantly across the four seasons of the year.

They noted that the higher the temperature, the greater the decrease in blood pressure. For example, systolic blood pressure decreased with increasing temperature, with an 8.0 mm Hg decrease between the lowest (less than 46.22 F) and the highest (70.16 F) temperatures.

In general, high blood pressure was found in 33.4 percent of participants during winter and 23.8 percent during summer, and these changes were most pronounced in those 80 years or older.

“Because the risk of stroke or aneurysmal rupture is highest in the elderly, improved protection against these diseases by close monitoring of blood pressure when outdoor temperature is very low could be considered,” the researchers concluded.

Health practitioners have also recommended exercise and nutritional supplements to help improve circulation and lower blood pressure.