Background/Purpose The Baby Boomer generation is the largest and fastest growing generation in the history of the U.S. The prevalence of obesity in older men has also increased while the prevalence among women has remained relatively stable.
Method A convenient sample of 211 Baby Boomer men in North Florida completed a self-administered survey.
Analysis/Results BMI was calculated based on self-reported weight and height. Mean BMI for participants was 29.35±5.07. Based on BMI classification, 43% were overweight, 39% were obese, and 18% were normal weight. Most (55%) were currently trying to lose weight, with significantly more obese men (79%) trying to lose weight compared to their overweight (51%) and normal weight (19%) counterparts, p<.05. Barriers to weight loss were: not being disciplined (29%), low priority (29%), no motivation, (22%), and not having found the right plan (18%). Obese men were significantly more likely than overweight men to say that they were not disciplined, not motivated, and that nothing has worked for them (p<.05). Motivators to weight loss were: to be fitter (66%), to look better (55%), dissatisfied with body (38%), to prevent disease (36%), physician recommendation (24%), partner dissatisfaction (16%), and to be a role model to kids (16%). Obese men were significantly more likely than overweight men to say they would be motivated to look better and to improve body satisfaction (p<.05).
Conclusions Opportunities exist to develop gender and age-specific weight management programs and messages for Baby Boomer men.