7. Conclusion

changes cause an accumulation of fat. Ageing is associated with a decline in the secretion of growth hormone, serum testosterone, resistance to leptin and a reduced responsiveness to thyroid hormone [107]. Studies show that resistance to leptin could cause a decrease in the ability to regulate appetite downward [74]. Several other genetic, environmental and social

Science does show a link between obesity and heredity [109]. Various studies indicate that obesity is related to the inherited genes and there is a link between obesity and heredity [110–113]. According to a study, visceral fat is more influenced by the genotype than subcutaneous fat [114].

Like genetics, environment also has a major role to play in obesity. The food we consume, physical activity and lifestyle behaviour are all influenced by the environment. For example, the adoption of modern diet over traditional diet, the trend towards 'eating out' rather than

factors contribute to obesity among elderly.

Figure 6. Possible causes of obesity. Source: La Berge [108].

6.2. Environmental and sociological factors

6.1. Genetic factors

14 Gerontology

In developing countries, as compared to developed countries, gerontology has drawn comparatively lesser attention. This is because the increased life expectancy of elderly resulting in a demographic transition which developing countries are witnessing today has already been faced by developed countries, several decades back. However, in recent years with a rising percentage of elderly population, epidemiologists, researchers, demographers and clinicians have focussed their attention towards elderly care health issues and various problems associated with ageing and numerous implications of this demographic transition.

Elderly face various problems and require a multi-sectoral approach involving inputs from various disciplines of health, psychology, nutrition, sociology and social sciences.

#### Conflict of interest

There is no conflict of interest.
