Research by LTSS Center fellows suggests that social relationships can impact health behaviors and psycho-social characteristics related to weight control and obesity.
Obesity is a leading health risk to people of all ages, but weight issues are especially prevalent among older adults. Seven of every 10 adults age 65 and older are overweight or obese, and those approaching retirement age have the highest rate of weight gain.
Fellows at the LeadingAge LTSS Center @UMass Boston are conducting research on obesity among older adults to better understand factors behind their weight issues and how to address them.
“Obesity research has primarily focused on prevention among children and younger adults,” said fellow Jane Tavares. “But we have a growing older population that is already overweight or obese and they’re still gaining weight. We need to find factors that may mitigate the already high obesity rate.”
