A healthy weight and BMI range for adults over age 65 may mean carrying a few extra pounds.
Illustration by Ellen Lindner for Verywell Health
BMI is a dated,flawed measure.
It does not take into account factors such asbody composition, ethnicity, sex, race, and age.
Illustration by Ellen Lindner for Verywell Health
These include:
However, a low BMI is also unhealthy, especially for older adults.
However, some studies find that both obesity and underweight can lead to frailty.
Risks of Lower BMI
A low BMI decreases your chances of recovering from illnesses and infections.
This may lead to a low BMI, often unintentionally and for the first time in their lives.
Weight Maintenance Goals
When trying to stay healthy, you should work with a healthcare provider.
Despite what charts and calculators may say, the target BMI is not the same for everyone.
Weight loss (or gain) may be a sign of a health issue that requires diagnosis and treatment.
Nutritionists can also help you decide whether you gotta take vitamin and mineral supplements.
Research shows that adults over 65 who are underweight experience more health issues and shorter life expectancy.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).Health Tips for Older Adults.
2023 Apr 6;15(7):1780. doi: 10.3390/nu15071780
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About BMI.
Robinson SM.Improving nutrition to support healthy ageing: What are the opportunities for intervention?.Proc Nutr Soc.
2018;77(3):257264. doi:10.1017/S0029665117004037
