Impact of Functional Limitations and Medical Comorbidity on Subsequent Weight Changes and Increased Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults

Abstract

Objectives: The primary goal of this study was to determine the effect of the onset of major medical comorbidity and functional decline on subsequent weight change and increased depressive symptoms. Methods: The sample included a prospective cohort of 53 to 63 year olds ( n = 10,150) enrolled in the Health and Retirement Study. Separate lagged covariate models for men and women were used to study the impact of functional decline and medical comorbidity on subsequent increases in depressive symptoms and weight change 2 years later. Results: Functional decline and medical comorbidity were individual predictors of subsequent weight changes but not increased depressive symptoms. Most specific incident medical comorbidities or subtypes of functional decline predicted weight changes in both directions. Discussion: The elevated risk of weight gain subsequent to functional decline or onset of medical comorbidities may require the receipt of preventive measures to reduce further weight-related complications.