Weight Management for Older Adults

Once you hit age 65 it seems like many things can change in your body, and maybe your mind.

Many things can add weight to you as an older adult. 

You have gained weight when you weren’t looking.  On top of that you may have muscle loss.

You could have added medical conditions.  Perhaps you are having trouble with your mobility so getting around is harder at times.

Has your social life changed?  That could affect your weight too.

You might have sarcopenic obesity.  That’s the official term for being overweight with muscle loss.

An important piece to figuring out this puzzle of weight gain is touching base with your medical provider.  You don’t want to add any chronic disease or disabilities to your list.

Your doctor will help you with ways to lose weight based on your age, body type and any existing issues.

In general, as you probably have guessed, a good way to change is following some healthy nutritional steps and physical activity.

Here are some suggestions:

• Look at what you eat and make more nutritious choices and then eat smaller portions.

• Watch and if possible, eliminate drinks with high, added sugars.

• Keep a list of all the foods you eat and share it with your doctor or nutritionist.

• Get physical.  Find physical activities that you like and make sure to include strength and balance activities.  You might actually enjoy time spent exercising!

It’s not easy to stay on top of so many things in your life as you age.  Weight can become a problem very easily for older adults.

Private Home Health Care knows that it can be hard to shed pounds off your body.  Work with your doctor to get started.  Good luck!