Total hyperemic (FBF) and vasodilator (FVC) responses (area under curve) to single forearm contractions at 10% (A), 20% (B), and 40% (C) MVC across conditions (control, LBNP, and phentolamine). Under control conditions, total hyperemic and vasodilator responses were similar in young and older adults at 10% and 20% MVC. However, total hyperemic and vasodilator responses were attenuated in older adults at 40% MVC. Sympathetic stimulation (via LBNP) blunted total hyperemic and vasodilator responses at all contraction intensities in young adults only. α-Adrenergic blockade (via phentolamine) enhanced total responses in young and older adults at 10% and 20% MVC and in older adults at 40% MVC. *P < 0.05 vs. young adults; †P < 0.01 vs. control.