Obesity in older persons.

The prevalence of obesity among older persons is growing. This trend has adverse medical, functional, psychosocial, and health care resource consequences. Many obese older persons were obese middle-aged adults. A sedentary lifestyle may be the dominant contributing factor. Intervention should focus on moderate weight reduction through the modification of diet, exercise, and behavior. Improvements in health and quality of life can be achieved with moderate weight reduction. Strategies tailored to the older population will facilitate successful interventions. Dietitians must be key participants in the effort to raise awareness of obesity as a serious health concern for older persons. The focus must be on achieving a more healthful weight.