Looking for yet another good reason to shed a few pounds? This one got my attention. Researchers at Purdue University say that as overweight, middle-aged people get older they start using assists like walkers and canes and shower chairs sooner than people who aren't overweight. The story is in ScienceDaily, and here's what one of the investigators, Kenneth Ferraro, says:
Food for thought...Here's the abstract of the original article in The Gerontologist."Obesity and disability create issues for society, such as in the number of handicap parking spots or availability of larger beds in hospitals and nursing homes. These challenges will escalate as our largest adult population ages," said co-author Kenneth F. Ferraro, a distinguished professor of sociology and director of Purdue's Center on Aging and the Life Course. "Being obese and disabled also fuels a vicious cycle. When you are functionally limited, physical activity is restricted, thereby burning fewer calories, which may lead to additional weight gain. This is another reminder that body weight matters throughout the life course."
