The impact of BMI on psychological health in oldest old individuals-Are there differences between women and men?

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the association of mental health issues associated with BMI and gender in the oldest old population (secondary data analyses).

Method: The data were taken from the second follow-up of a long-term study investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health in oldest old individuals (range: 77-96 years). The response rate was 80.0%. Apart from sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, weight and height); anxiety, depression, somatic complaints and social support were assessed in this survey.

Results: Analyses revealed gender-specific differences, indicating that male participants with excess weight show more complaints compared to their counterparts without excess weight. According to regression results, BMI was associated with somatization, but not depression or anxiety.

Conclusion: High BMI contributed to more somatic complaints and men may be affected differently by BMI regarding their mental well-being. Longitudinal results are needed in order to confirm these findings and develop suitable interventions based on individual needs of the oldest old.