1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) 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: The BMI calculation divides an adult's weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. For elderly women, maintaining a healthy BMI is particularly important for joint health, mobility, and chronic disease prevention.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For elderly women at home, measurements should be taken without heavy clothing and shoes for accuracy.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is BMI accurate for elderly women?
A: BMI is a useful screening tool but may overestimate body fat in muscular individuals and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q2: What is a healthy BMI for elderly women?
A: For women over 65, a BMI between 23-30 is generally considered healthy, slightly higher than younger adults.

Q3: How often should elderly women check their BMI?
A: Every 3-6 months is reasonable unless there are significant weight changes or health concerns.

Q4: Should elderly women try to lose weight if BMI is high?
A: Weight loss should be approached cautiously in elderly women - focus should be on maintaining muscle mass while losing fat.

Q5: Are there alternatives to BMI for elderly women?
A: Waist circumference and body composition tests may provide additional useful information about health risks.