Factors associated with weight control in older adults

Dieting behaviors in a sample of 183 overweight older adults were studied to assess how they were influenced by six cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and social variables. Membership in a weight control program was also evaluated to assess whether it affected these relationships. Responses indicated that reports of high quality dieting behaviors were associated with higher levels of depression and less effective coping skills. Dieting behaviors among subjects who were participants in weight loss programs were not as strongly associated with less effective coping skills, but were associated with external health locus-of-control. The degree of social support had a limited impact on dieting behaviors, while measures of optimism and health status were unrelated to dieting behaviors. We concluded that older adults, especially those who diet independently, are likely to experience significant stress associated with weight loss efforts. Weight loss programs for older adults might produce better outcomes if they focus on reducing depression and stress associated with dieting.