Obesity and Aging: Optimizing Health at the Intersection of Ageism and Weight Bias

Abstract

Obesity is a chronic and complex disease that can negatively impact health, functioning and quality of life. In the past decade, obesity's largest prevalence growth occurred in older adults, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities. By the year 2030, an estimated 50% of the population over 65 is likely to be living with obesity. Until recently, little attention has been given to obesity as a chronic disease, and those living with obesity have encountered challenges accessing high quality medical care. Despite growing evidence for bariatric and obesity medicine, these treatments remain inaccessible for most patients, especially for older adults. Obesity research focused on older adults has been very limited and ideal weight standards for older adults are more controversial, especially in later life where frailty and sarcopenia may develop. As concerns about the public health effects of obesity have risen in the U.S., so too have negative and stigmatized views of individuals with obesity. Weight stigma has serious negative emotional and physical health consequences including low self-esteem, negative body image, engagement in disordered eating patterns, reduced physical activity and may promote weight gain. Older adults with obesity may encounter the double stigma of both ageism and weight bias, which are two of the most socially acceptable forms of bias and discrimination in the U.S. This interactive session will focus on three areas related to obesity and older adults. Through case examples, small and large group discussions, the presenters will: i) explore potential weight bias amongst participants and discuss strategies to mitigate this bias in working with older adults; ii) discuss complex connections between obesity and frailty syndrome in older adults, and the risks associated with weight loss in later life; iii) introduce evidence-based assessment and treatment recommendations for older adults interested in obesity treatment. This session will focus on the role of psychiatrists and other mental health clinicians in the care of older patients with co-morbid obesity and mental health disorders. Also, presenters will discuss the importance of increasing awareness, advocacy, and practical strategies to combat the impact of weight bias and ageism in healthcare settings. Ultimately, the goal is to raise awareness of this complex problem and provide clinically helpful information to improve care for older patients with obesity. This symposium is sponsored by the AAGP's IDEA committee.