Extra weight in older adults could mean a longer life

A new study suggests that current body mass index (BMI) recommendations may be unsuitable for older adults. Caryl Nowson, a professor of nutrition and aging at Deakin University, led a research team that examined the relationship between BMI and risk of death in people 65 and older. The findings indicated the lowest risk was among those with a BMI of about 27.5, which is considered overweight by the World Health Organization. "It is time to reassess the healthy weight guidelines for older people," Professor Nowson said.