A collaborative approach to wellness: Diet, exercise, and education to impact behavior change

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate an interdisciplinary Wellness Program developed to help patients implement behavior changes necessary to begin weight reduction. Data sources: A 12-week program was developed to offer a choice of three diets, education, behavior change, and support groups that would allow participants to work through their concerns. A total of 109 participants provided feedback throughout the program and had varying degrees of change. Measures included education, food diaries, support, exercise, and anthropomorphic measurements. Conclusions: Participants who attended the exercise classes showed the most positive results with weight loss, and the greater the number of times attending the exercise classes, the more weight was lost. Readiness and willingness to change and the degree of involvement in the program also proved to be major factors in the program. Implications for practice: While obesity and overweight continue to be major healthcare issues in the United States, a real positive approach to helping patients with this problem has not been found. Continued study and support are needed to help patients deal with the impact of weight on overall health and well-being.