MOVE UP Lifestyle Intervention for Caregivers

Mobility and Vitality Lifestyle Program-Caregivers

In prior research the Mobility and Vitality Lifestyle Program for healthy aging and weight management (MOVE UP) was effective in producing a mean loss of >= 5% body weight, with increased physical activity and reduced fatigue. This research will pilot a modified and streamlined version to see if it will be similarly effective for caregivers of family members or friends who have dementia, physical and/or developmental issues, or health problems.

The investigators aim to test the feasibility of delivery of a modified and streamlined lifestyle program in volunteer community settings and to provide pilot data to inform the design of future randomized controlled trials that may improve physical and mental health in older adults (50-75) who are providing care for a family member or friend who has dementia, physical and/or developmental issues, or health problems. Current objectives include:

1 . Adapt and pilot the previously studied 32-session, 13-month MOVE UP intervention to a streamlined 12-session (4-month) community-based translational behavioral weight management program. The pilot program will be delivered by a staff interventionist.

2. Implement and evaluate the program's impact on weight and healthy lifestyle changes, including physical performance outcomes, at 2 sites, each with at least 6 eligible obese and caregiving adults ages 50-75 years old.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 50-75 years of age
2. BMI >=27.0, but <45.0
3. Able to consent for participation and data collection.
4. Medical clearance from physician/health care provider before session 2 in program.
5. Ability to walk with or without assistive device.
6. Acting as a caregiver to someone with dementia, a serious illness, and/or a developmental or physical disability.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Past MOVE UP participant.
2. If weight loss in the past year is >=10% body weight.
3. Use of wheelchair; participant must be willing and able to increase physical activity.
4. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (FBS > 30 & A1C > 11%); to be assessed by physician on medical release.
5. Uncontrolled hypertension (SBP > 180/110) %); to be assessed by physician on medical release.
6. Recent overnight hospitalization (past 6 months).
7. Active treatment for cancer (including melanoma).
8. Significant visual or hearing impairment.
9. Significant cognitive disorder/relevant and significant psychiatric disorder (to be assessed on medical release).
10. Inability to communicate in English/lack of translator.
11. Currently enrolled in another research study that could impact study outcomes or interfere with either study. Exclude if less than 12 months post-graduation from previously enrolled study.
12. Currently enrolled in a weight loss program, such as Weight Watchers.
13. Inability or unwillingness to attend the majority of sessions.
14. In the past year, participating in (other) ways of losing weight, such as bariatric surgery, prescription medications, or non-surgical interventions (reviewed by investigators).
15. Unable to obtain medical clearance by session 2.
16. Not acting as a caregiver.