The aim of this study was to assess the applicability of alternative versus direct anthropometric measurements for evaluating of nutritional status among older Bengalees. We conducted a cross-sectional survey in a coastal area of Purba Medinipur District, West Bengal. We measured weight, height, knee height, waist, hip and mid-upper-arm circumferences of 114 older individuals. Correlations between the different methods for calculating body mass index (BMI; using direct or alternative measurements) were evaluated by Passing-Bablok regression method; agreement in the allocation of participants to the same risk category was assessed by squared weighted kappa statistic and indicators of internal relative validity. Using the Passing-Bablok regression method, the best agreement was found in fourth model (height + WC + HC) for men and in women, the best agreement was found in the second model (height + MUAC). The agreement between this classification and that obtained using BMI calculated by alternative measurements was “fair-good.” When it is not possible to determine nutritional status risk category by using weight, we suggest that for older Bengalees, it may be appropriate to use the alternative measurements to predict weight and BMI.