Here Are Some Risk Factors and Tips to Prevent Obesity in Seniors

Vancouver Senior Health  |  July 26, 2018

What Every Senior in Vancouver, BC Needs to Know About Obesity Risk Factors and Prevention Tips

Obesity in Seniors | Statistics for more than a decade show the United States as one of the world’s most obese countries. You may have seen frequent news coverage of this “national epidemic.” Even with numerous well-planned strategies to educate the public about proper nutrition and promote more exercise, the obesity issue remains and has continued to increase. Sadly, about one-third of our U.S. adults are now categorized as obese. Perhaps “epidemic” is a slight exaggeration, but the obesity issue warrants our concern.

Understanding Obesity in Seniors

BMI or Body Mass Index is a system of measuring body fat based on weight and height. The desired BMI would be in the range of 19 – 25. A number in that range would indicate a normal or healthy weight, but those who score 30 BMI or above are generally considered overweight or obese.

With an increased BMI level, the risk of developing certain chronic diseases also rises. Hypertension, cardiac disease, and stroke correlate with inclined results. Additionally, increased body weight adds stress to knees and other joints, creating mobility problems and declining physical ability. Research has shown a possible correlation between obesity and early cognitive impairment or mental decline, too.

Tips To Prevent Senior Obesity

Since older adults are inherently already at risk for the diseases or conditions mentioned above, it’s good to know that lifestyle changes can successfully decrease excess weight and prevent obesity. The tips that follow are helpful, but please consult your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program.

• Eat Healthy Foods – Controlling portions of food portions at mealtimes and monitoring caloric intake are still important but it’s essential to provide the proper type of nourishment to the body. Although tempting, it’s important to skip the salty and sugary snacks or eat them occasionally. Switch them out for naturally delicious whole fruits and vegetables instead.
• Exercise – High-intensity exercise isn’t necessary for older adults to gain health benefits. Having an elevated heart rate for the right amount of time from low-impact activities (e.g. walking and swimming) is perfect and it can also help to burn more calories. A good exercise regimen includes a half hour daily.
• Strength Training – Muscle tissues burn calories more efficiently than fat tissue, so prioritize increased muscular strength and endurance by using free weights or practicing other weight-bearing exercises for a minimum of 20 minutes, 2-3 times per week. If you feel underconfident about starting alone, sign up for a personal trainer or a class at your local gym or YMCA.

Making the health and well-being of your older loved ones a priority can be a challenge. Offer plenty of encouragement for them to follow the above tips, reduce excess weight, and prevent obesity. Keep them looking forward to a healthier future ahead.

Comfort Keepers® is the Best Senior Home Care Provider in Vancouver, BC

Comfort Keepers® is the preferred choice for many families when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care, End of Life Care, Respite Care, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Interactive Caregiving™

Comfort Keepers®’s trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and 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 which offers personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers® Vancouver office.

Comfort Keepers® Brings You The Best Home Care Assistance Right Where You Live.

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide home care throughout Vancouver that keeps seniors safe in their homes. We provide home care for the seniors of Vancouver and the surrounding areas of Burnaby, Langley, Maple Ridge, and Richmond please call (604) 689-8609. 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers® offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

Share This Post: