Challenging the "jolly fat" hypothesis among older adults: High body mass index predicts increases in depressive symptoms over a 5-year period.
Several investigators have observed lowered risk of depression among obese older adults, coining the "jolly fat" hypothesis. We examined this hypothesis using baseline and a 5-year follow-up body mass index, depressive symptoms, and covariates from 638 community-based older adults. High objectively measured body mass index and functional limitations predicted increased future depressive symptoms. However, symptoms did not predict future body mass index. Self-reported body mass index showed similar associations despite underestimating obesity prevalence. Results did not differ on the basis of gender. Results for this study, the first longitudinal reciprocal risk analysis between objectively measured body mass index and depressive symptoms among older adults, do not support the "jolly fat" hypothesis.
The University of Maine, USA.
Peter Joseph
PJ
Dearborn
The University of Maine, USA.
Michael A
MA
Robbins
The University of Maine, USA.
Merrill F
MF
Elias
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015992:Body Mass Index; D003863:Depression / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009765:Obesity / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology*; D015995:Prevalence; D057566:Self Report; D012727:Sex Characteristics; D012737:Sex Factors; D013997:Time Factors
depression; epidemiology; geriatrics; obesity; physical function