John Wilson is a 74-year-old retired schoolteacher. He is 5'8" tall and weighs 136 pounds. His wife died nine months ago. During a routine visit to the doctor, it was noted that his weight had decreased 21 pounds since his visit a year ago. Mr. Wilson does not have any medical problems, though he does report feeling depressed and lonely. The physician ordered a panel of lab tests including hemoglobin, hematocrit, and albumin, which all were low. A healthy BMI for a man his height is 24.
What is Mr. Wilson's ideal body weight?

Question

John Wilson is a 74-year-old retired schoolteacher. He is 5'8" tall and weighs 136 pounds. His wife died nine months ago. During a routine visit to the doctor, it was noted that his weight had decreased 21 pounds since his visit a year ago. Mr. Wilson does not have any medical problems, though he does report feeling depressed and lonely. The physician ordered a panel of lab tests including hemoglobin, hematocrit, and albumin, which all were low.  A healthy BMI for a man his height is 24.
What is Mr. Wilson's ideal body weight?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Using the BMI formula, we can calculate Mr. Wilson's ideal body weight to be (24 x (5'8")^2) = 159.9 pounds, which rounds up to 160 pounds. However, given his age and recent weight loss, a slightly higher weight might be more appropriate. Therefore, choice B, 158 pounds, is the best option.

John Wilson Is a 74-Year-Old Retired Schoolteacher