International Journal of Nursing

Treating Obesity in a Vulnerable Clientele Living in Foster Families: A Systemic Solution
Jean-Charles Perron, Sarah Shidler, Jacques Charest, Geneviève L. Lavigne PhD

Abstract
Obesity in a vulnerable clientele living in foster families such as persons treated with antipsychotic medications and/or mental retardation is a complex problem with serious health consequences. This study reports on a two-year family intervention that aimed at improving the health of this clientele. The target of the intervention was the entire obesogenics ystem. The intervention meetings were primarily with the cooks (here considered the experts) with additional attention to the extended system members such as the case workers and the treating physicians. Results show that consuming three portions of vegetables (excluding potatoes), using fruit as substitute for desert and practicing physical activity at least four times per week lead to sustainable weight loss for the target clientele as well as the other members of the family. Results further suggest the effectiveness of interventions directed toward the person responsible for the meals in a family system and not solely the target clientele.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijn.v2n1a2