Descriptive anthropometric reference data for older Americans.

OBJECTIVE

To present selected anthropometric data derived from adults aged 60 years and older examined in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III).

DESIGN

NHANES III used a complex, stratified, multistage, probability cluster sample design to obtain a nationally representative sample of the US civilian, noninstitutionalized population. Persons aged 60 years and older, Mexican-Americans, and African-Americans were oversampled to produce more reliable estimates for these groups. Trained technicians measured height, weight, skinfold thickness, and circumferences using standardized procedures.

SUBJECTS

A total of 5,700 persons aged 60 years and older, and 1,861 persons aged 50 to 59 years.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Mean and selected percentiles for body weight, body mass index, triceps skinfold thickness, mid upper arm circumference, and arm muscle circumference were calculated by gender, race/ethnicity, and 3 age categories. Weight (lb) per height (in) tables were generated for men and women by age group.

RESULTS

Mean body weight was lowest for persons aged 80 years and older. A decline in body mass index occurred that paralleled the direction and magnitude of the progressive decrease observed in weight. Muscle loss with increasing age, as indicated by arm muscle circumference, appeared to be greater among men than women.

APPLICATIONS/CONCLUSIONS: In addition to being relatively simple, quick, and inexpensive, anthropometry is the most reliable and specific indicator of malnutrition in the older adult population. The cross-sectional reference data provided can be used by dietitians to interpret anthropometric measurements of persons aged 60 years and older.