Your BMI Calculator Results Guide: Healthy Weight

Your BMI suggests you have a healthy weight

Beth Howard,

Updated December 23, 2024

AARP

Published April 20, 2023

/ Updated December 23, 2024

Photo Illustration: AARP; (Source: Getty Images)

The trick will be to maintain your weight.

Keep in mind that BMI has its limits, and recommendations differ based on a few variables. For instance, your muscle tone plays a role as you age. And if you have a lot of fat around the middle, you may face additional health risks.

Tips for People Over 50 Who Are a Healthy Weight

To maintain a healthy weight, don’t let changing circumstances alter the number on the scale. Sustaining an injury or moving from a job where you’re on your feet all day to one at a desk, for instance, can be a recipe for weight gain. Adjust your calorie intake to account for the activity deficit.

Studies suggest that regular weigh-ins help prevent people from gaining weight. One reason: It’s easier to make an adjustment if you are up by 2 pounds than if you’ve gained 12. In general, people tend to gain 1 to 2 pounds per year, which can add up over time.

The older you get, the more medications you may take. This can affect your BMI; many drugs list weight gain as a side effect. If you’re prescribed a drug known to put on pounds, ask your doctor for an alternative or suggestions for staying at a healthy weight when no substitute is available.

Some research has shown that physical activity does even more than diet to maintain weight. You can even step it up a notch if you have more time in your schedule.