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Physician-assisted weight loss and maintenance in the elderly
Joanne M Kiehn1, Courtney O Ghormley, Erin B Williams
1College of Health Related Professions and Donald W. Reynolds Senior Health Center, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham #547-13, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA. jmkiehn@uams.edu
Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|September 27, 2005
Summary
Physicians must address the obesity epidemic, especially in older adults, as excess weight increases health risks. This article explores barriers to physician intervention and effective weight management strategies for patients.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Geriatrics
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- The growing epidemic of obesity presents a significant challenge for healthcare providers.
- Increasing weight is linked to higher risks of disease and mortality, particularly in the aging American population.
- Despite evidence supporting weight loss benefits, many overweight patients do not receive physician guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the barriers preventing physician intervention in obesity management.
- To outline methods for assessing obesity risk and patient readiness for change.
- To discuss effective strategies for successful weight loss and maintenance.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on physician barriers to obesity intervention.
- Discussion of risk assessment tools for overweight patients.
- Exploration of patient-centered approaches for weight management.
Main Results:
- Identified key barriers to physician intervention in obesity care.
- Presented methods for evaluating patient readiness for lifestyle changes.
- Detailed effective strategies for weight loss and long-term maintenance.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare providers need to proactively manage the obesity epidemic.
- Addressing physician and patient factors is crucial for successful weight management.
- Effective interventions can mitigate obesity-related health risks, especially in the elderly.