Researchers recruited approximately 17,000 Australians aged 70 and over and more than 2,000 Americans aged 65 and over between 2010 and 2014. Of these participants, 1,256 died during the first years of follow-up. “Our study found that even a 5% weight loss increased the risk of death, especially in older men,” he said. Specifically, there was a 33% higher risk in men whose weight he lost 5–10%, and a 289% higher risk in men who lost more than 10%. For women, the corresponding higher risks were 26% for her and 114% for her. The study did not consider whether the weight loss was intentional.
In general, the study encourages older adults to track weight changes and “see your doctor for further screenings and tests.” Not involved in research. (Read more elderly stories.)
