OBJECTIVE: Assessing the concordance between different classifications of body mass index (BMI) and verify if the formulas to estimate weight and height, that can be applied to the elderly population in Southern Brazil. METHOD: Cross-sectional analysis was applied to 131 elders from three long-stay institutions in Southern Brazil. They were evaluated through anthropometric assessment, considering weight, knee height, sub-scapular skin fold, as well as, calf, arm and waist circumferences and anthropometry. RESULTS: The average age of the samples was 78.9 (41.2% males and 58% females). According to the WHO scale, only two elders (1.5), were considered underweight; 63 of them (48.1) were classified as eutrophic and 66 (50.4%) were classified as being overweight, obesity degrees I and II. On the other hand, cut-off points set by Lipschitz considered 21 elders (16%) as being underweight, 69 ( 52.7%) eutrophic and 41 (31%) as overweight. By comparing standard weight and height measurement to the same estimated measures, it was clear that Rabito's formula for estimated height and weight showed no significant difference. CONCLUSION: The cut-off points showed moderate concordance. Lischitz emphasizes a higher range of risk for malnutrition. Comparing weight and height standard measurements to the estimated ones, it was concluded that just Rabito's formula can be applied to this population.
Aged; Body Mass Index; Homes for the Aged; Anthropometry
