Weight Loss Strategies Used By Older Adults In A 6-month Weight Loss Intervention

Abstract

Obesity in older adults places them at risk for increased mortality and comorbid health conditions. Older adults are also at risk for loss of muscle mass and related decreased functioning with diet being an important factor. Gaining a better understanding of perceptions of weight loss in older adults and identifying successful weight loss strategies that can assist in reducing obesity while protecting muscle mass is important to improve health outcomes. PURPOSE: To identify and examine the perceptions of weight loss and weight loss strategies used by older adults in a 6-month weight loss intervention. METHODS: Twelve overweight (94.0 kg ± 13.2), older adults (65.7 years ± 4.0) were enrolled in a 6-month weight loss intervention. Participants received a calorically reduced meal plan (500kcal/d) with 1.2g/kg protein to protect against muscle loss. Fourteen follow-up sessions were conducted. Body weight (BW) and skeletal muscle mass (SMM) were monitored utilizing InBody770. Post program interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed using constant-comparative analysis. A 35-item weight loss strategy inventory was completed and analyzed utilizing descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Ninety-two percent (n=11) of participants lost weight, with mean weight loss of 6.8%± 4.4 of BW. Seventy-five percent of participants had weight loss of >5% of BW. Mean SMM loss was 0.009%± 0.031 of BW with 33.3% (n=4) of participants increasing or maintaining SMM. Participants used a mean 15 ± 6 weight loss strategies four or more times/week. Themes for successful weight loss included using personal behavioral strategies such as measuring portion sizes, biochemical and anthropometric motivators, personalized support, and accountability feedback and monitoring. Barriers included consuming the additional protein in the diet and care-taking of others. CONCLUSION: Results of this study provide considerations for the development of strategies to achieve clinically significant weight loss (>5%) while maintaining SMM in older adults. The higher intake of protein to protect against muscle loss was reported to be difficult for participants. Both personal strategies, as well as external strategies provided through the counseling relationship, contributed to success.