Obesity in Seniors

Edmonton Senior Health  |  July 26, 2018

How Your Senior Loved One Can Avoid Obesity in Edmonton, AB

Obesity in Seniors | You’ve probably seen charts and statistics over the last decade showing the United States as one of the world’s most obese countries. You’ll frequently see news coverage of this “national epidemic.” Despite valiant attempts in the U.S. to educate the public about proper nutrition and exercise, the same issue remains, and the sad fact is that about one-third of adults are obese. The reporting of obesity as reaching “epidemic” levels could be slightly exaggerated, but regardless, obesity warrants our concern at this point.

Understanding Obesity in Seniors

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of an individual’s body fat based on weight about height. The desired BMI is in the range of 19 – 25, indicating what is typically considered healthy weight, but those scoring 30 or above are generally considered obese.

As a person’s BMI levels increase, so does the risk of developing certain chronic diseases, such as hypertension heart disease, or even leading to stroke. Extra weight gain can also add additional stress to the knees and other joints, which creates diminished mobility with declined physical ability. As studies show, there may even be a connection between obesity and early cognitive impairment or decline.

Tips To Prevent Obesity in Seniors

Of course, obesity can be a concern for adults as they age since they are already in a higher risk category for the diseases and conditions mentioned above. Fortunately, lifestyle changes can be adopted to eliminate excess weight and prevent obesity. At any age, it’s best to consult a doctor before starting any of the following weight loss tips.

• Eat Healthy Foods – Besides controlling food portions and caloric intake, it’s just as valuable to provide the proper nourishment to our bodies. Skip the salty and sugary snacks and trade up for whole fruits and vegetables instead.
• Exercise – High-intensity exercise isn’t necessary for health benefits. Just make an elevated heart rate your goal with low-impact activities (e.g. walking and swimming) for the prescribed amount of time per age. This will also assist in burning calories. A half-hour per day can be perfect as a successful exercise regimen.
• Strength Training – Even at rest, the body’s muscle tissue burns calories more efficiently than fat tissue so it’s important to strengthen the muscle groups using free weights or other weight-bearing exercises for a minimum of 20 minutes, 2-3 times per week. If you don’t know how to get started, sign up for a class at your local gym or YMCA.

The health and well-being of our aging loved ones is a priority. Encourage them to follow the above tips and to reduce any excess weight to prevent obesity. This will keep them looking forward to a happier, healthier future.

Comfort Keepers® in Edmonton Can Help with In-Home Elderly Care!

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help. Comfort Keepers®’ trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. 

Companionship and Interactive Caregiving™

Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Moreover, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind: empathy. Empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Learn more about our unique service offering by contacting the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office. If you live in Devon, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact Comfort Keepers at 780-465-4665.

Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing Program Offered by Alberta Health Services. Is Invoicing the Right Option for You?  Read more about the program HERE.

Comfort Keepers Edmonton is here to help you and your loved ones get the best care possible. Awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. Our Edmonton location has achieved the highest available certification in Canada for Home Care services, clearly demonstrating Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton.

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