Anthropometric measurements in the elderly

Anthropometric measurements (weight, skinfold thickness at triceps, subscapular and dorsum of the hand and circumference of upper arm and abdomen) of 126 aged subjects, studied in four groups, are reported. The relationship of any of these anthropometric parameters with energy intake was not significant in the majority of the groups. Abdominal circumference was the only measurement which showed a significant correlation with body weight in the males and females of the four groups. The use of abdominal circumference as an indicator of nutritional status needs further study.