Geriatric BMI Calculator
Calculate BMI with age-adjusted categories for adults 65 years and older
Designed for Adults 65+
This calculator uses age-adjusted BMI categories recommended for older adults. Standard BMI thresholds may not accurately reflect health status in seniors.
Your Geriatric BMI
(Age-adjusted for 65+ years)
Geriatric BMI Scale
Your Category Comparison
Geriatric BMI (65+)
Age-adjusted assessment
Standard BMI
Standard WHO categories
Healthy Weight (65+)
- kg
For your height (BMI 23-30)
Est. Body Fat
%
Deurenberg formula estimate
Age Group
years
Senior adult category
Geriatric BMI Categories (65+ Years)
| Category | BMI Range |
|---|---|
Standard vs Geriatric BMI Categories
| Category | Standard BMI | Geriatric BMI |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | < 18.5 | < 23 |
| Normal | 18.5 - 24.9 | 23 - 29.9 |
| Overweight | 25 - 29.9 | 30 - 34.9 |
| Obese | ≥ 30 | ≥ 35 |
If you like this calculator
Please help us simply by sharing it. It will help us a lot!
Related Calculators
Other calculators you might find useful.
Calories Burned Standing Calculator
Calculate how many calories you burn while standing based on your weight, duration, and activity type.
Calories Burned Rowing Calculator
Calculate how many calories you burn during rowing workouts on ergometers and rowing machines.
Ovulation Calculator
Predict your fertile window and ovulation date to maximize your chances of conception
Overweight Calculator
Check if you're overweight based on BMI and get personalized health insights
Calories Burned Biking Calculator
Calculate how many calories you burn while cycling or biking based on speed, duration, and body weight.
Calories Burned Dancing Calculator
Calculate how many calories you burn while dancing based on dance style, duration, and body weight.
About Geriatric BMI Calculator
The Geriatric BMI Calculator is a specialized tool designed for adults aged 65 and older. While the BMI formula remains the same, the interpretation of results differs for seniors due to age-related changes in body composition.
Why Different BMI Categories for Seniors?
As we age, our bodies undergo significant changes:
- Muscle Loss (Sarcopenia): Older adults naturally lose muscle mass, which can mask increased body fat at the same BMI
- Bone Density Changes: Decreased bone density affects overall weight measurements
- Fat Redistribution: Body fat tends to shift to the abdominal area with age
- Protective Effect: Research shows slightly higher BMI may be protective in older adults during illness or recovery
Geriatric BMI Categories
| Category | Standard BMI | Geriatric BMI (65+) |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | < 18.5 | < 23 |
| Normal Weight | 18.5 - 24.9 | 23 - 29.9 |
| Overweight/Obese | ≥ 25 | ≥ 30 |
Sources: American Dietetic Association, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Geriatric Nutrition Research
The Obesity Paradox
Research has shown that for older adults, being slightly overweight by standard measures may actually be associated with better health outcomes. This phenomenon, known as the "obesity paradox," suggests that:
- A BMI between 25-30 may provide protective reserves during illness
- Being underweight poses greater health risks in seniors than being moderately overweight
- Recovery from surgery and illness is often better in seniors with higher BMI
Important Considerations
- Waist Circumference: Often a better predictor of health risk than BMI alone for seniors
- Functional Status: Physical ability and strength matter more than weight alone
- Individual Assessment: Always consult with healthcare providers for personalized guidance
Disclaimer: This calculator provides general information based on research guidelines for older adults. Individual health needs vary - please consult with a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
About the Formulas
BMI Formula
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m²)
Same formula for all adults; only interpretation differs for seniors
Body Fat Percentage (Deurenberg Formula)
BF% = (1.20 × BMI) + (0.23 × Age) - (10.8 × Sex) - 5.4
Sex: 1 for male, 0 for female | Source: Deurenberg et al., 1991
⚠️ Important Considerations for Seniors
- Waist circumference may be a better health indicator than BMI alone
- Physical function and strength are important health factors
- Being underweight can be more dangerous than being slightly overweight in seniors
- Rapid weight changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider
- Individual health needs vary - consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance