Table 1.

Topic guide for qualitative interviews

Topics	Prompts
Introductions and background
Introductions	Who we are and aim of study. Check length of interview (30–60 min) ok.
Experiences of weight management
Weight history	Brief overview of weight across the life course. Always struggled with weight?
Recent attempts at weight loss	Methods. Success.
Any changes with age	Methods. How easy it is. Success/achieving goals. Reasons (or perceived reasons) for any changes.
Motivation to lose weight
Reasons for losing weight	Appearance reasons. Health reasons. Doctor’s advice. Family and friends.
Any changes with age	Amount of motivation. Reasons for losing weight. In what way?
Personal importance of weight	Impact on life/health/well-being. Has it changed with age?
Barriers to losing weight
Current barriers	Lack of willpower. Lack of support. Financial issues. Health problems. Social life.
Any changes in barriers with age
Appropriateness of weight management for older people
Own views	Something you can/should be doing?
Perception of other people’s views	Something you can/should be doing? Is it something family/friends encourage? Guidance from health professionals