As much as people may celebrate their own weight loss, it is not always healthy. A new study shows that weight loss in older adults is associated with early death and life-limiting conditions. Weight gain, on the other hand, was not associated with mortality, according to study, Medical professionals have known to be concerned when older people with health conditions lose weight.
The study looked at nearly 17,000 adults at least 70 years old in Australia and more than 2,000 adults in the United States who were at least 65 years old. Everyone who participated in the study was weighed at their annual checkup between 2010 and 2014, according to the study. The study showed that even a 5% weight loss increases mortality risk, particularly in older men. Weight gain in healthy older people, on the other hand, showed no association, she added. The association was found across starting weights, meaning people who are medically classified as obese also were at an increased risk when losing weight.
Weight loss may be a risk factor for mortality because it can signal underlying issues. Weight loss may be a warning sign for conditions like cancer and dementia, and it is “often linked to reduced appetite influenced by inflammation and hormones,” Underlying chronic health conditions can also trigger weight loss in older adults by impacting appetite, metabolism and eating habits, Halperin said. Mobility issues and medication side effects can also affect weight. Changes in weight can also signal concerns in lifestyle, Halperin said. “A major contributing factor to weight loss in older adults is social isolation. Other concerns include financial constraints and pain and discomfort”.
