Seven studies were evaluated regarding the caloric needs of healthy adults over age 65.  As measured by indirect calorimetry, reported caloric needs of healthy adults range from 18 - 22 kcal/kg/day in females and 20 - 24 kcal/kg/day in males.  Further research is needed regarding differences in race and ethnicity.  

• Grade I means there is Good/Strong evidence supporting the statement;
• Grade II is Fair;
• Grade III is Limited/Weak;
• Grade IV is Expert Opinion Only;
• Grade V is Not Assignable.
• High (A) means we are very confident that the true effect lies close to that of the estimate of the effect;
• Moderate (B) means we are moderately confident in the effect estimate;
• Low (C) means our confidence in the effect estimate is limited;
• Very Low (D) means we have very little confidence in the effect estimate.
• Ungraded means a grade is not assignable.

Five studies were evaluated regarding the caloric needs of older adults who are acutely or chronically ill or underweight. As measured by indirect calorimetry, the caloric needs of acutely or chronically ill older adults range from 18kcal to 22kcal per kg per day in females and 20kcal to 23kcal per kg per day in males. The caloric needs of underweight older adults (BMI<20kg/m²) may be as high as 27kcal to 28kcal per kg per day. Emerging research supports a relationship between an increased number of medications with decreased energy needs. Further research is needed in this area.

• Grade I means there is Good/Strong evidence supporting the statement;
• Grade II is Fair;
• Grade III is Limited/Weak;
• Grade IV is Expert Opinion Only;
• Grade V is Not Assignable.
• High (A) means we are very confident that the true effect lies close to that of the estimate of the effect;
• Moderate (B) means we are moderately confident in the effect estimate;
• Low (C) means our confidence in the effect estimate is limited;
• Very Low (D) means we have very little confidence in the effect estimate.
• Ungraded means a grade is not assignable.