The health and well-being of the overweight aging population is a growing challenge that has significant implications on their health. Seniors tend to put on weight as they age because of various factors including reduced metabolism, hormonal changes and lifestyle habits that make one gain weight easily but have difficulty losing it. The definition of obesity for seniors is a BMI of 30 or greater.
Obese seniors face a heightened risk of developing several diseases which include:
- Congestive heart disease
- Type II diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Certain types of cancer
- Joint diseases
Obesity in old age can also worsen pre-existing health problems, leading to a poorer standard of living.
Addressing obesity in seniors over 70 is largely preventive. This can be achieved by promoting ongoing physical activity that suits individual capabilities and conditions, even if it’s a short 10-minute walk each day. Muscle preservation can be done through strength training, which also boosts mobility.
In managing weight, a balanced diet is also crucial for seniors.
Weight management can be enhanced by promoting a diet which includes whole grains, healthy fats, vegetables, lean proteins and fruits.
Do your best to limit processed foods packed with saturated fats, high fructose corn syrup, and extra sugar.
Additionally, it is crucial to raise the awareness of the dangers of obesity
Educating seniors and their caregivers can prevent the harmful outcomes of obesity in old age. This leads to recognizing unhealthy patterns that may cause a risk later on. To kick-start a healthy lifestyle, speak with your doctor today to create a specialized plan for yourself or your loved one.
We are here to help
Are you or a loved one looking for help at home with senior obesity? My Choice Home Care is a senior care service that serves clients in Macon, Jackson, and Haywood Counties in North Carolina. Counties served in Georgia are Rabun, Towns, and Habersham. Counties served in Upstate South Carolina are Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson. Visit MyChoiceHome.Care or call (828) 200-9000 to speak to someone today if you or a loved one would like to enjoy the benefits of living independently in your own home.
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