Your BMI Calculator Results Guide: Healthy Weight

Congrats! Your BMI suggests you have a healthy weight

Beth Howard,

AARP

Published April 20, 2023

/ Updated January 08, 2024

Photo Illustration: AARP; (Source: Getty Images)

The trick will be to maintain your weight and not gain additional pounds.

Keep in mind that BMI has its limits. BMI recommendations differ based on your gender and other 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.