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. 2011 Mar;23(2):347-66.
doi: 10.1177/0898264310382657. Epub 2010 Sep 29.

Variations in body mass index among older Americans: the roles of social and lifestyle factors

Sangnam Ahn  1 , Joseph R Sharkey, Matthew Lee Smith, Marcia G Ory, Charles D Phillips
Affiliations

Variations in body mass index among older Americans: the roles of social and lifestyle factors

Sangnam Ahn et al. J Aging Health. 2011 Mar.

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the correlates of body mass index (BMI) among a national sample of older adults in the United States.

Method: Data used in these analyses were part of the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Generalized ordered logistic regression was used to analyze difference between normal weight, overweight, moderately obese, and severely obese adults (n = 1,143) above the age of 65 years.

Results: A higher BMI was more common among those with greater activities of daily living (ADL) limitations, greater use of prescription medicines (≥ 7), greater number of cardiovascular-related disorders (1 or ≥ 2), and those aged 65 to 74 years.

Discussion: The findings acknowledge relationships between health characteristics, disability, and BMI among a national sample of older adults. These results suggest that prevention and management of health conditions, basic ADL, and BMI may be reasonable targets for intervention.

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