PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine the low weight, community-dwelling, older adult’s understanding and implementation of recommendations for weight stabilization given to them by their health care provider (HCP).

METHODS: In-home interviews (n=128), using open-ended questions, were conducted and analyzed using content analysis. Instruments included a geriatric depression and cognitive status scale, and a nutritional screening and assessment. Anthropometric measurement included: weight, height, mid-arm circumference, triceps skinfold, and body mass index. Subjects were recruited from HCP offices, three Veterans Administration (VA) outpatient clinics, senior centers, and by snowball effect.

RESULTS: Four percent reported receiving information from their HCP on normal and low weight for their age. Thirty four percent report that they would visit a HCP if they lost weight and had difficulty stabilizing the weight loss. Only 22% (n=28) reported knowing what a normal weight is for their age and even less (2%, n=2) reported knowledge of what low weight is for their age. Fifty percent (n=68) were satisfied with their current weight and 34% (n=44) believed they should lose more.

CONCLUSIONS: The majority of the subjects were unaware that they were at-risk for low weight. Since most community-living older adults do not know what normal or low weigh is for their age, they may benefit from information on appropriate weight for an older person (age 65 and older). HCP’s advice on normal and low weight ranges for the older adult must be included in strategies to avoid poor nutritional health in this population.

 Funding Support: National Institute of Nursing Research grant, 1 F31 NR09165-01.