The Controversial Relationship between Body Mass Index and Handgrip Strength in the Elderly: An Overview

Abstract

Body mass index (BMI) is one of the most commonly used anthropometric measurements. BMI is measured by dividing an individual’s weight by their height. In the elderly, the aging process causes physiological changes to organ systems as well as body composition. The most noticeable changes occur in the musculoskeletal system—that is, of decreased muscle strength. Handgrip strength is one of the most commonly considered criteria to measure muscle strength. Various factors, including age, gender and anthropometric measurements such as BMI, are known to affect a person’s muscle strength. In addition, weight and height affect the handgrip strength of an elderly person. However, whether BMI directly affects handgrip strength in the elderly is still debated. Several studies have stated that BMI has a relationship with handgrip strength in the elderly, while other studies have found no relationship between BMI and handgrip strength. BMI and handgrip strength is still controversial and requires further research.