1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. For older adults, BMI ranges may differ slightly from standard adult ranges.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For men over 60, BMI between 23-30 may be considered healthy.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are BMI ranges different for older adults?
A: Yes, slightly higher BMI ranges (23-30) may be healthier for older adults compared to younger adults (18.5-25).

Q2: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so very muscular people may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q3: How often should BMI be checked?
A: For older adults, checking every 6-12 months is reasonable unless weight changes significantly.

Q4: Should waist circumference be measured too?
A: Yes, for older adults waist circumference (>40 inches for men) is an important additional measure of health risk.

Q5: Is BMI useful for very frail elderly?
A: In frail elderly, other measures like weight loss may be more important indicators than BMI alone.