Now recognized as a chronic medical condition, obesity is associated with serious health problems that increase morbidity and mortality; stigmatization at work, in social settings, and in healthcare settings; decreased physical function; lower health-related quality of life; and increased direct and indirect healthcare costs. When combined with common aging-related challenges, obesity can create complex clinical situations without easy solutions.

GSA is committed to promoting an adjustment in the health care system to allow older adults with obesity and overweight a space where they can comfortably discuss treatment options without stigmatization and receive care for obesity which often is the root cause of other chronic conditions with which they live. The increasing recognition of obesity as a chronic disease that requires treatment across one’s lifespan helps to overcome the stigma associated with the condition and increases support, resources, and treatment options. Increasing awareness, knowledge, and adjusting behavior in treating older adults with obesity requires a multidisciplinary team. The Gerontological Society of America has developed a multidisciplinary approach to addressing obesity and overweight in older adults by creating a Toolkit to guide and inform primary care settings.


GSA KAER Toolkit for the Management of Older Adults with Obesity

The GSA KAER Toolkit for the Management of Older Adults with Obesity is based on the GSA KAER Framework and is intended to help primary care teams with implementing practices that will lead to the timely identification of issues associated with weight management and provide appropriate weight management care in older adults.

Informed by an Expert Advisory Panel, GSA makes ongoing updates to The GSA KAER Toolkit for the Management of Older Adults with Obesity. GSA also develops programs (e.g., podcasts, webinars) and publications to drive practice change and participates in and leads initiatives to ensure older adults with obesity and overweight receive evidence-based obesity care and enjoy access to the full continuum of obesity care options.

Many obesity resources are freely available on GSA Enrich and GSA members can engage in theGSA Obesity and Aging Interest Group.

Additional Information on this important topic is available from:

Karen Tracy, Vice President, Strategic Alliances & Integrated Communications

ktracy@geron.org | 703-624-5217

Jen Pettis, Director of Strategic Alliances

jpettis@geron.org | 518-368-9090