A qualitative study to examine hidden care burden for older adults with overweight and obesity in England

  • 0Faculty of Health, Medicine & Social Care, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Overweight and obese older adults in England often rely on informal care due to unmet social needs and discrimination. Addressing these gaps can improve well-being and reduce health inequalities.

Area Of Science

  • Gerontology
  • Public Health
  • Social Care Research

Background

  • Obesity prevalence is rising in older adults, yet its specific impact on social care needs is under-researched.
  • Existing studies show unmet social care needs in older adults, but less attention is given to those who are overweight or obese.
  • This study investigates the social care experiences and needs of overweight and obese older adults in England.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To explore formal and informal social care needs in overweight and obese older adults residing in England.
  • To understand the unique challenges and experiences of this demographic within the social care system.

Main Methods

  • Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants from a National Health Service (NHS) health centre in London, England.
  • Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 eligible participants.
  • Qualitative structural narrative analysis was employed to analyze the data.

Main Results

  • Overweight and obese older adults reported more physical health and mobility issues.
  • They predominantly received informal, voluntary support over formal social care.
  • Participants experienced social isolation, frustration, lack of housing adaptations, safety concerns, and discrimination, leading to unmet care needs that can exacerbate health inequalities.

Conclusions

  • The study highlights significant unmet care needs among overweight and obese older adults in England.
  • Holistic social care approaches are crucial, addressing both health and psychosocial aspects.
  • Targeted interventions, including accessible support networks and policies promoting social engagement, can enhance well-being and mitigate health inequalities.

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