Concern over obesity in children has somewhat overshadowed the problem at the other end of the life span — weight problems as people grow older.

As Australians aged 60 and over become heavier, GPs must navigate ongoing debate around what constitutes healthy weight in older people, and the benefits and risks of weight loss in this age group.

Concerns about weight loss resulting in sarcopenia, coupled with research suggesting a slightly higher BMI can protect health in the elderly, mean different strategies are needed to assess and manage patients’ weight change as they age, specialists say.

The statistics suggest obesity is a health issue that is set to affect more and more older Australians in coming years.