Research from the Yale School of Medicine has shed light on the impact of GLP-1 medications on older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above. This demographic often approaches weight loss with different goals compared to younger adults, primarily focusing on enhancing functional ability and improving health outcomes. According to Dr. Alissa Chen, the lead author of a systematic review on this topic, older adults tend to prioritize goals like walking longer distances without pain or engaging in play with grandchildren.
Dr. Chen, who specializes in obesity research among older populations, notes that many older adults may also seek weight loss medications for their potential benefits in treating related conditions, such as cardiac issues or sleep apnea. Despite the growing interest in GLP-1 drugs, her review found a significant lack of research surrounding their effects on this age group.
Research Findings Highlight Risks and Gaps
The systematic review revealed a concerning trend: older adults experienced a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal adverse events when using anti-obesity medications compared to younger individuals. Additionally, these medications were often discontinued more frequently by older adults, indicating a need for further research to guide effective clinical care.
Dr. Chen emphasizes that “our approach to the treatment of obesity in older adults should be inherently different given that they have different medical needs and goals.” One of the critical issues is that older adults may face increased risks of adverse events, particularly when these medications interact with other prescriptions they may be taking. For example, the potential for dehydration among older adults using GLP-1 receptor agonists could elevate the risk of falls, a serious concern in this population.
Dr. Kasia Lipska, an associate professor of medicine and senior author of the study, echoes the necessity for tailored research. “Understanding safety in this group is essential before we scale up use,” she states. She argues that obesity among older adults is influenced by a complex interplay of health history, social factors, and physiological changes, warranting its own focused research rather than treating it as an extension of midlife obesity.
Ongoing Studies to Expand Understanding
In an effort to gather more data on the effects of GLP-1 medications in older adults, Dr. Chen is currently leading two studies involving veterans aged 65 and older. The first study aims to ascertain how GLP-1 agonists can assist individuals in achieving their personal health goals. Participants from the VA Connecticut Healthcare System (VACHS) will be interviewed prior to starting the medication to assess various aspects of their quality of life, including physical function, mood, and pain levels. They will be surveyed again six months after initiating treatment to evaluate their experiences.
The second study will analyze national VA data to determine the weight loss effects of GLP-1 agonists in older adults. Dr. Chen points out that real-world weight loss outcomes often differ from those observed in clinical trials. This research aims to provide clearer expectations for older adults using these medications outside of controlled settings.
Dr. Chen’s research addresses fundamental questions: “How much weight do we expect them to lose? Can it help them improve their function, or does it hinder their function? What unforeseen adverse effects may occur with these medications?” Through these studies, she aims to enhance understanding of the unique considerations for older adults regarding GLP-1 medications.
The findings from Dr. Chen and her team could pave the way for more informed approaches to obesity treatment in older populations, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and quality of life for this vulnerable group.
