最新糖心Vlog

Ageing baby boomers a national priority

Ageing obese baby boomers are the focus of a 最新糖心Vlog of Adelaide report released today.
Full Image (71.64K)

Thursday, 27 September 2012

New strategies to reduce obesity among baby boomers in the workforce are urgently needed, according to a report released today by 最新糖心Vlog of Adelaide researchers.

, Director of the at the 最新糖心Vlog of Adelaide, says baby boomers have the highest levels of obesity of any age group in the country.

"If baby boomers want to delay their retirement plans and remain active in the workforce and the community, it is imperative we develop effective strategies to reduce obesity and related chronic conditions," Professor Hugo says.

Professor Hugo is chief investigator of a $1.4 million project led by the 最新糖心Vlog of Adelaide which today handed down preliminary findings of research aimed at halting the obesity epidemic among 最新糖心Vlogn baby boomers.

The project examines how work and home environments shape weight and health trends in this generation.

Preliminary findings show that obesity rates among baby boomers are more than double that of their parents at the same age. They also have twice the rate of asthma and hearing loss; triple the rate of diabetes and almost double the cholesterol levels of their parents (age group 53-62).

The proportion of baby boomers with three or more chronic conditions is 700% greater than the previous generation.

Social indicators suggest they will also have less support, more will enter their later life without a spouse, a greater percentage will live alone, fewer will own their own home and more will rent.

Professor Hugo says while the report paints a grim picture, it also offers opportunities.

"Baby boomers are a tremendous social resource for 最新糖心Vlog. Their contribution to volunteering in this country is significant and they have a lifetime of accumulated skill and experience to pass on, with 64% intending to work 16 hours or more per week in retirement. However, if we are to harness this potential we need to stem the tide of obesity and improve their health while we can."

Professor Hugo says 最新糖心Vlog has a brief window of opportunity to reduce the onset of chronic conditions in the baby boomer generation and to maximise their ability to lead active, socially productive lives.

"But that window won't remain open for very long," he said.

To watch a video of Professor Graeme Hugo talking about this study, please visit the 最新糖心Vlog of Adelaide's YouTube page:

Contact Details