According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), the number of calories needed by individuals over age 60 each day depends on their physical activity level. All adults should aspire to be physically active, but those who experience mobility issues may have difficulty getting around. Still, the more active men and women over 60 are, the more calories they will require.

  • Inactive. The NIA recommends that women over 60 who are not physically active consume 1,600 calories per day. Men over 60 who are not physically active should consume between 2,000 and 2,200 calories each day.
  • Moderately active. Moderate physical activity can consist of daily walks, but aging adults are urged to keep track of the length and intensity of such walks so they can work with their physicians to determine how they may affect their daily caloric intake. Generally, women over 60 who engage in moderate physical activity daily are urged to consume 1,800 calories per day, while men in that category should consume between 2,200 and 2,400 calories.
  • Very active. Aging men and women can probably determine on their own if their lifestyle can be described as very physically active. Women over 60 who qualify as very active should consume between 2,000 and 2,200 calories per day, while the NIA advises very active men to consume between 2,400 and 2,600 calories per day.

Of course, it’s important that men and women over 60 choose the right foods each day as well. The NIA advises against choosing foods that have a lot of sugar, saturated fat, and sodium. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are examples of healthy foods that can help aging individuals reach recommended daily calorie intake without compromising their overall health.