Body mass index and mobility of older home care patients

Overweight and obesity are increasingly prevalent. The purpose for a sample of older adults was to describe body mass index (BMI) and determine its relationship with mobility. The BMI of 36 consecutive home-care patients (≥ 65 years) was determined as was their independence in sit-to stand (STS [ability without help or use of upper limbs]) and ability to walk 150 feet without help or stopping. The patients' mean BMI was 29.7 ± 9.6 kg/m². Sixteen patients were overweight and 10 were obese. Eighteen patients were unable to complete an STS without use of their upper limbs or help. Eighteen patients were unable to walk 150 feet without help or stopping. A higher BMI was associated significantly with STS dependence (r=-0.361; p=0.031) and limited walking (r=-0.424; p=0.010). Thus, most of the older adult patients seen in one practice were overweight or obese. Regardless of age and other factors, patients with higher BMIs were more likely to have limited mobility.