BackgroundObesity is now a worldwide problem and Ireland is no exception with approximately two thirds of the adult population now overweight or obese. A recent report has found that 53 % of Irish adults aged 50 years and over are classified as centrally obese and at substantially increased risk of metabolic complications. While most studies investigating weight maintenance have been conducted on those who have managed to lose weight and/or achieved weight loss maintenance (secondary weight maintainers), few studies have been undertaken to understand the attitudes, behaviours, motivations and strategies of those who maintain their weight within normal weight ranges over their lifetime, so called primary weight maintainers. This study aims to explore this issue through qualitative exploration of primary weight maintainers in an Irish University.MethodsSeven focus groups were conducted (including three single interviews) with 17 participants in total across three different groups, 1) primary weight maintainers, 2) secondary weight maintainers, and 3) those unable to sustain or achieve weight loss. The interviews were transcribed and thematic analysis was applied to interpret the findings.ResultsAfter analyzing the participant’s interviews, planning and organization or lack of, emerged as themes across the three groups in varying degrees. Strategizing, perseverance and willpower were seen as integral to weight maintenance and weight loss in groups one and two, these were lacking in group three. Prioritizing exercise and perseverance in maintaining a high level of activity was evident in groups one and two and was lacking in group three. Motivational influences were equal across the groups however, group three found it difficult to turn this into action. Group one had behavioural control of calorie intake maintaining a balance between week and weekend eating. Group three found it difficult to control calorie intake and portion size. Self-image differed across the three groups with cognitive dissonance evident amongst those in group three.ConclusionsThis study showed that there are many factors that influence primary weight maintenance. Considering that we live in a society that is predominantly sedentary, predominantly overweight and with poor food choice options facing us every day, fighting our way through to ensure healthy weight maintenance requires active, conscious efforts. The factors identified in this study which are important in healthy weight maintenance are all potentially modifiable with life-coach, nutrition, exercise and cognitive interventions particularly if peer support and a whole family approach are incorporated.

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ObjectivesOlder people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are seeking interventions for maintaining independence. This study investigates the feasibility of translating a research‐evaluated memory group (LaTCH) into a community‐based organisation by evaluating the experiences of clients and trained staff.MethodsDementia Australia staff trained as facilitators of memory groups for 274 people with MCI and families. Clients and staff were interviewed regarding experiences from group participation.ResultsClients and staff reported benefits of shared experience through group participation, leading to greater use of compensatory strategies. Staff observed client improvement in memory‐related self‐confidence, thereby reducing anxiety and increasing re‐engagement in life activities. In their own professional roles, staff reported increased self‐efficacy, leading to greater role satisfaction. Several challenges in running and sustaining the program were also identified.ConclusionsMemory group interventions can be feasibly delivered in a community setting and increase service access opportunities for older people with memory problems.

Overweight and obesity have increased dramatically in the past 20 years in Ireland with almost two thirds of the population now overweight (1) . According to a recent report, Ireland now ranks as one of the most overweight/obese nations in the EU (2) . In Ireland, it has been estimated that the economic impact of obesity is around E1.6 billion annually (3) . Much research has focused on achieving and maintaining weight loss, whereas no previous research has specifically studied the population who consistently successfully maintain their weight within 'normal ranges' (i.e. body mass index (BMI) from 20-25) over their lifetimes. With one in three people in Ireland maintaining a healthy weight, there is much to learn from this 'normal weight' group.The aim of this research study was to examine the factors that contribute positively and negatively to one's ability to maintain a healthy body weight.Staff across all departments and all sectors (Support, Academic, Administrative and Technical) in an Irish University were invited by email to take part in this research study. Focus groups were conducted as outlined below.Focus group 1: Staff who actively maintain their weight within a healthy range (n = 7) Focus group 2: Staff who have lost over 14lbs (1 stone) in weight and managed to maintain it for over one year (n-4) Focus group 3: Staff whose BMI or weight is considered overweight/obese who have not lost weight in the past year (n = 6)The focus groups took approximately 1 hour. The focus groups were transcribed verbatim and analysed into themes.This research indicates that there are three broad elements to successful weight loss and weight maintenance:Socio-cultural factors: including beliefs, community engagement, family and peer support. Cognitive and emotional control: will power, persistence and perseverance. Individualised strategies: planning, prioritising, portion control, calorie restriction and rowing back.Our results shed light on the interplay of various factors involved in healthy weight maintenance and may also have implications for targeted interventions.