Skinfold in Old and Longlived Individuals

Abstract

Skinfold thicknesses in old and very old people from the normal population was recorded. The selected group included healthy people, on an adequate diet and having a body weight within the normal range. In all subjects the skinfold thickness at twelve sites was assessed. The correlation of values from different sites was calculated with the average value of all sites measured. The closest correlation to the average value in both sexes was found in the skinfold on the abdomen. Least reliable in men is the skinfold on the chin and neck and in women the skinfold on the chin and calf. The average values found in both groups of old people were compared with vaules obtained in younger age groups. The differences between values assessed at different sites in relation to the average, as well as the differences between age groups in both sexes were evaluated statistically.