Comprehensive Health Measures in Older Adults

Body weight was measured using Tanita BC418MA scales and standing height using a Seca height measure, and body mass index (BMI) calculated [weight (kilograms)/height² (meters²) squared]. Waist and hip circumference were measured with a non-elastic tape, and their ratio computed. The following self-reported physician diagnosed chronic diseases were used: cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, angina, stroke), chronic bronchitis and diabetes. Hypertension was defined as elevated measured blood pressure (≥140/90 mmHg) and /or use of anti-hypertensive medication. We used two indicators of mental health: contact with a psychiatrist for any disorder and symptoms of psychological distress as measured using the four-item version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) in which scores ranged from 0-12 (categorised as 0, 1-2, ≥3 [high]). A verbal numerical reasoning task was used as a marker of cognitive function.^{12 (link)}