Physical limitations contribute to food insecurity and the food insecurity-obesity paradox in older adults at senior centers in Georgia

J Nutr Elder. 2010 Apr;29(2):150-69. doi: 10.1080/01639361003772343.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship of obesity and physical limitations with food insecurity among Georgians participating in the Older Americans Act (OAA) congregate meal-site program (N = 621, median age = 76 years, 83% female, 36% Black, and 64% White, convenience sample). Food insecurity was assessed using the modified 6-item US Household Food Security Survey Module; obesity was defined as Body Mass Index (BMI) or waist circumference (WC) class I or II obesity; and physical limitations (arthritis, joint pain, poor physical function, weight-related disability) were based on the Disablement Process. A series of multivariate logistic regression models found weight-related disability and obesity (WC class II) may be potential risk factors for food insecurity. Thus, obesity and weight-related disability may be risk factors to consider when assessing the risk of food insecurity and the need for food assistance in this vulnerable subgroup of older adults.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arthralgia / physiopathology
  • Arthritis / physiopathology
  • Body Mass Index
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Female
  • Food Supply*
  • Georgia / epidemiology
  • Geriatric Assessment*
  • Humans
  • Hunger*
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Nutritional Status
  • Obesity / classification
  • Obesity / pathology
  • Obesity / physiopathology*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Waist Circumference