Obese and normal weight subjects estimated their body size using television‐ (TV) video methodology in which they adjusted the size of their body image on a TV monitor. Subject's eye movements were recorded throughout the task. Results indicated that both groups of subjects looked most at their chest, waist, and head while estimating their body size, with relatively little attention paid to their thighs or feet, and calves. Obese subjects viewed their waist more than normal weight subjects do. Overall, subjects underestimated their body size by 4.62%. There were no differences between estimations of obese and normal weight subjects, although females underestimated their size more than males. Subjects overestimated on descending trials where the initial image was presented as too large and underestimated on ascending trials where they had to increase the size of the initial image. Subjects were also faster at reaching final size estimation on ascending trials. Results are discussed with respect to previous disparate findings, and implications for treating eating disorders are described. Concerns relevant to the technology and methodology of measuring body size are discussed also.

Tube feeding is a common intervention considered in the care of older adults. The objective of this paper is to provide an overview of the current literature on the relationship between cultural factors and tube feeding in older adults, to help prepare speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to consider these cultural factors in communicating with their patients and families who may be faced with a tube feeding decision. Although evidence indicates that this intervention lacks benefit in advanced dementia, the decision to provide tube feeding can be complicated and challenging. SLPs are often consulted to provide assistance in the evaluation of an older adult with eating and feeding problems, and have an important role in tube feeding decision-making. SLPs and the healthcare teams they work with need to be aware of regional, national, international, ethnic, cultural, and institutional differences in tube feeding decision-making and utilization. SLPs and their healthcare teams need culturally sensitive communication and assessment skills to gently elicit and address cultural influences in this decision.