Loss of <10 lbs in 6 months is listed as a warning sign of weight loss. Which option reflects this?

• A. Loss of <10 lbs in 6 months
• B. Loss of 15 lbs in 6 months
• C. Gain of 5 lbs
• D. No weight change

Answer: (A)

Unintentional weight loss in older adults is a red flag that prompts a closer look for potential problems such as malnutrition, chronic illness, medication effects, or decreased intake. In many geriatric assessments, a small, unexplained loss—specifically less than 10 pounds over six months—is listed as a warning sign to trigger further evaluation. This threshold is useful because it can indicate early issues before more drastic weight loss occurs, and it reflects changes that can have meaningful effects on health and function in older adults. So the statement that describes losing less than 10 pounds in six months matches this warning sign exactly. Losing 15 pounds in six months is also concerning but represents a larger loss beyond the stated threshold, while gaining weight or having no weight change does not represent weight loss.