Which Factors Are Associated with Body Mass Index Among Elderly People Living at Home in France?

Abstract

Obesity is a complex and multifactorial chronic disease. Body weight can be affected by environmental and socio-economic conditions, genetic factors, lifestyle, etc. The aim of this study was to investigate the links between body mass index (BMI) categories and socio-demographic, health and life style variables among people aged 60 years or over who live at home. Data were collected from the 2008 cross-sectional national survey on health and disability (Handicap Santé Ménages) and are representative of the elderly population in France living at home (N = 9,867). We have performed multinomial logistic regressions with weight status as the outcome variable. Compared to individuals aged 75 to 79, people aged 80 and over were more likely to be overweight than obese, and of normal weight rather than overweight. Having at least one chronic disease increased the probability of being obese as opposed to overweight. Women with severe physical limitations were also more likely to be obese than overweight. Doing physical exercise decreased the probability of being obese as opposed to overweight and overweight vs. normal weight. Time spent watching TV increased the probability of being overweight vs. normal weight. There is an urgent need for public health measures to prevent obesity among the elderly, such as those that promote good nutrition, exercise and social relationships, in order to help old people to maintain their capacities and autonomy.