HIGH BMI AND WAIST CIRCUMFERENCE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH A HIGH PREVALENCE OF COMORBIDITIES IN OLDER AMERICANS ACT PROGRAMS IN GEORGIA SENIOR CENTERS

Objective: This study characterized the relationship of body mass index (BMI) and high waist circumference (WC) with the prevalence of selected comorbidities among older adults receiving nutrition and wellness services from Georgia’s Older Americans Act programs at senior centers. Methods: Participants were a convenience sample (N = 759, mean age = 75 years, 81% female, 63% white, 36% black). Correction factors were applied to measured WC and to measured and self-reported height and weight. Results: The prevalence of several comorbidities showed striking relationships with WC and BMI, independent of age, gender, and race. Conclusion: The health burden of overweight/obesity is very high in these older adults creating an urgent need for evidence-based nutrition, physical activity programs, and therapeutic lifestyle counseling to prevent and manage weight-related comorbidities.