Weight status and participation in senior center activities.

This study extends exploration of weight status and participation in senior center activities. Center staff surveyed 740 participants in 21 senior centers regarding personal characteristics, program participation, and weight status. Findings indicate participant characteristics exert a significant influence on weight status. Yet, weight status has no significant association with either program participation or perceived benefits from program participation. Strategies for influencing weight status through program interventions are reviewed and should interest those who view the senior center as a vehicle to enhance health and promote independent living for community-dwelling older adults.