The Effect of Subjective Body type Recognition in the Elderly on Body Weight Management Methods

Abstract

This study analysed weight management methods according to the subjective body type recognition of the elderly, and based on the results, this study was conducted to suggest the importance of correct body type recognition and provide basic data for developing nutrition education data and nursing intervention programs. For the sample, data from the “2019 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the Quality Control Administration” was used. 1,735 elderly people were selected, data were extracted, and the study subjects were set. The collected data were analyzed using the SPSS 21.0 program. A frequency analysis was performed on the demographic characteristics of the subject of this study. Moreover, correlation analysis was performed to confirm subjective body type recognition and weight control method. In addition, multiple response analysis was performed to confirm the subjective body type recognition and weight control method by age. Subjective body type recognition showed a positive correlation between meal reduction and skipping meals. Among the weight control methods, exercise showed a negative correlation between meal reduction and meal skipping. Among the weight control methods, fasting showed a positive correlation with skipping meals, voluntary weight loss medications, prescribed weight loss medications, herbal medicines, and one-food diets. According to the subjective body type recognition of the elderly, the weight management method for each group was analyzed by classifying them into “very thin group, thin group, normal group, obese group, and very obese group”. In the perception by body type group, it was found that "obese or very obese" use weight management methods through diet control more than exercise. Education on systematic body shape and weight control methods based on scientific knowledge is required so that the old adult can properly recognize their body shape.