1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. For women over 65, the ideal range is typically higher (23-29 kg/m²) than for younger adults.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass per unit of height squared. For older women, a slightly higher BMI is considered healthier than for younger adults.

3. Importance of BMI for Older Women

Details: For women over 65, a BMI between 23-29 kg/m² is associated with lowest mortality risk. Being slightly overweight may be protective against osteoporosis and other age-related conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For height, you can convert from cm by dividing by 100 (e.g., 165 cm = 1.65 m).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the ideal range higher for older women?
A: Studies show slightly higher BMI in older age is associated with better outcomes, possibly due to nutritional reserves and protection against frailty.

Q2: Does BMI account for muscle mass?
A: No, BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. A muscular person may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q3: Are there better measures than BMI for older adults?
A: Waist circumference and body composition tests may provide additional useful information about health risks.

Q4: Should an 80-year-old woman try to lose weight?
A: Weight loss should be carefully considered with a doctor, as unintentional weight loss in older adults can be concerning.

Q5: How often should older women check their BMI?
A: Annual checks are reasonable unless there are significant weight changes or health concerns.