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Objective We assessed the value of height reduction, calculated using knee height measurement, as a risk factor or predictive sign for osteoporosis in healthy elderly women. Methods In 181 healthy women 76 ± 5 y of age, height, weight, and knee height were evaluated. Femoral and spine bone mineral densities and body compositions were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. In 76 young women 27 ± 4 y of age, a regression equation to predict height, based on knee height, was derived. Using this equation, maximum attained height and height loss were calculated in elderly women, which was correlated to bone mineral density. Results The equation to predict height was height (cm) = knee height (cm) × 2.22 + 50.54. The calculated height loss in elderly women was −6.1 ± 3.8 cm or −0.08 ± 0.05 cm/y of age. Height loss and hip circumference were significant predictors of spine bone mineral density. In the case of femoral bone mineral density, to the same predictors, a negative effect of waist circumference was added. Women in the highest quintile of height reduction (>0.199 cm/y) had an odds ratio of 4.5 (95% confidence interval 1.56–13.3, P Conclusion Knee height can be used as an accurate measurement of height loss in the elderly, which is a significant predictor of femur and spine bone mineral densities, in addition to hip circumference.

Objective There is a seasonal variation in the incidence of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. However, there is very little information about the seasonal variation in insulin sensitivity. We report the seasonal variation in insulin sensitivity in a group of elderly subjects followed for 1 y. Methods Healthy elderly (≥70 y) subjects living independently were included. Fifty percent of subjects received a daily nutritional supplement that provided 400 kcal, 15 g of protein, and 50% of vitamin daily reference values (DRVs). Those receiving and not receiving supplements were randomly assigned to a resistance exercise training program. Every 6 mo (winter, summer, and winter), body composition was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and blood samples were used to measure serum lipids, fasting and postprandial glucose, and insulin levels. Results One hundred eight subjects (31 supplemented and trained, 28 supplemented, 16 trained, and 33 without supplementation or training) completed the follow up. Higher homeostasis assessment of insulin sensitivity, postprandial insulin, and fasting triacylglycerol levels were observed during the summer than during the winter. Body fat increased steadily during the study period, and fat-free mass did not change. Serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased significantly in the supplemented and trained group and increased in the non-intervention group. Conclusions In this group of elderly subjects, insulin resistance and triacylglycerol levels were higher during the summer. Nutritional supplementation and training had a positive effect on serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.