MOWI Research Pilot

Mobile Health Obesity Wellness Intervention in Rural Older Adults (MOWI): Research Pilot

The goal of this study is to conduct a program of pilot research aimed at developing and evaluating a technology-assisted wellness intervention for older adults with obesity.

The national epidemic of obesity is also affecting older adults, and is associated with an increased risk of disability, nursing home placement and early mortality. Conventional weight loss programs have the potential to reduce body fat, but are difficult to access for older obese adults due to transportation and mobility challenges. The overarching goal of this study is to conduct a program of pilot research aimed at developing and evaluating a technology assisted wellness intervention for older adults with obesity.

Study Timeline:

September 2017 to June 2018:

Goal: Conduct a pilot study of improving weight and physical function in older adults with obesity. An mHealth Obesity Wellness Intervention (MOWI) will integrate Amulet +/- Fitbi with a weekly individual dietician-led nutritional session, along with twice weekly physical therapist led group exercise session.

Participation Duration: Three times weekly for 3 months

Inclusion Criteria:

All Aims:

• Age ≥65 years
• Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 30kg/m^2
• Waist circumference ≥88cm in females or ≥102cm in males

Aims 2 & 3:

• Have Wi-Fi high speed internet
• Able to obtain medical clearance from doctor
• Have less than a 5% weight loss in past 6 months
• No advanced co-morbidity
• No exercise restrictions
• Not involved in other research studies that may interfere with participation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe mental or life-threatening illness
• Dementia
• Substance use
• History of bariatric surgery
• Suicidal ideation
• Unable to perform measures
• Reside in nursing home
• No advanced co-morbidity
• No exercise restrictions
• Not involved in other research studies that may interfere with participation

Aim 4 - had to have completed Aims 2 or 3