BACKGROUND: The prevalence of body image dissatisfaction have grown, and relationships between self-image and different anthropometric indicators are not yet well known in many groups. OBJECTIVE:Identify the relationship between body image perception and different anthropometric indicators among active elderly. METHODS:Sixty-two elderly who are part of a hydro-gymnastics program for at least 5 years participated in the study. Body image perception analysis took place utilizing the Stunkard et al. (1983) protocol. Body mass, stature, circumferences (waist, hips, and arm), and tricipital cutaneous fold measurements were taken. Spearman's correlation, multiple linear regression, and Poisson's regression were utilized in data analysis. RESULTS:The silhouettes 5 and 6 were the most indicated as real, and silhouettes 4 and 3 were the most indicated as ideal, respectively. The majority of the elderly (72.6%) were not satisfied with their body image as a result of excess weight. The regression models with the greatest prediction power of the real silhouette took into consideration the circumference of the waist (74% explanation) and the circumference of the waist and tricipital cutaneous fold (77%) explanation. The prevalence of dissatisfaction with body image was 1.42 time greater in elderly classified as at-risk when considering the fatty area of the arm. DISCUSSION: The waist and arm measurements were the most relevant towards the group's body image. The grand prevalence of body image dissatisfaction reinforces the need for nutritional and psychological interventions among groups of elderly.
Body image; anthropometry; elderly; health promotion
