A new thesis examines the relationship between body mass index and health outcomes among the elderly

Overweight and obesity, usually defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 kg/m2, affect more than half of older adults. However, the relationship between BMI and health outcomes among older adults is unclear. My thesis aims to describe the association pathways for body mass index and other anthropometric measures in the elderly. In addition, I examined associations between short- and long-term changes in BMI in cardiovascular disease (CMD), dementia, and survival, and highlighted modifiable factors that may modulate such associations.

What are the most important results?

BMI, along with two proxies of muscle mass (ie, calf circumference and mid-arm circumference) declines over time in the elderly. Cardiovascular disorders may accelerate the rate of these declines, while higher levels of education and physical activity appear to slow them.

Being overweight/obese in middle or late life is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. A favorable lifestyle can partially mitigate the effects of being overweight/obese on these diseases.

A significant loss of BMI and a significant increase in BMI are both associated with an increased risk of dementia. In addition, both middle- and late-life overweight/obesity can shorten chronic disease-free survival among older adults.

How can this knowledge contribute to improving the health of the elderly?

My thesis provides a more comprehensive understanding of the BMI-correlation pathway pattern in the elderly. It expands previous studies by examining the health risks of weight change and BMI change patterns over the long term.

My results indicate that high BMI in middle and later life and large changes in BMI can predict adverse health outcomes in old age. Among the elderly, a normal and mostly stable BMI can help prevent adverse health outcomes and extend a healthy life.

what will you do now what do you do now? Will you continue to do research?

Yes, I will continue to search for healthy aging, and my goal is to help older people live better and for longer.