Many of us hate to admit it, but weight is an issue we must confront head on. It is no fun. Losing weight is difficult. This is especially true for older Americans, those 65 and older. More than two thirds of the country are overweight. Many of our seniors suffer from the same problem. To be sure, weight loss in seniors is no easy task. What can we do to help seniors in Nassau County shed the pounds?
Concerns Specific to Seniors
Seniors may have more challenges losing weight than their grandchildren. First, their metabolism slows down. Furthermore, their lack of energy means that they lead more sedentary lives. Moreover, in these times, more and more seniors have turned to screens to enrich their learning and social lives. This adds to their lack of physical activity.
Benefits of Weight Loss
Obviously, we all know the benefits of weight loss in seniors. At a healthy weight, you are at a lower risk for heart disease, hypertension, diabetes 2, as well as some cancers among other things. Likewise, you also will benefit from an improved mental state.
If you are obese, it may mean greater endurance in terms of your ability to walk longer. You will likely experience a decrease in shortness of breath enabling you to participate in normal enjoyable activities. Furthermore, you will have less wear and tear on your joints.
Possible Pitfalls
The problem with weight loss in seniors is the lack of muscle and bone loss. Unfortunately, weight loss may exacerbate these conditions which are endemic to the elderly. Of course, you must consult with your doctor or geriatrician to determine if a weight loss program is right for you.
Tips to Help You Succeed
-
Support & Structure
Join a program or grab a buddy to help you in your weight loss regimen. A trained nutritionist will know exactly the right program for you that will fit your lifestyle while helping you reach your goal.
-
Emphasize Protein
Given there is a concern of muscle and bone mass loss, it is important to get plenty of protein as well as calcium and Vitamin D. Vitamin D has the extra benefit of reducing your risk of contracting flus and colds.
-
Portion Control
Rule of thumb is to reduce your daily intake of calories by 100 with every decade you reach.
-
Exercise
Guidelines suggest cardio exercises that get your heart rate up about 20 minutes a day. Of course, you MUST consult your physician before embarking on an exercise regimen.
-
Patience
As a senior you know, good things come to those who wait. Weight loss is a marathon, not a sprint. It will take time to reach your goal.
David York Agency can support you in your quest. We have a large network of health professionals upon which we can call to help connect you to the right person to further your health goals. When you do decide on a course of action, our home health aides can help keep you on track in your food and exercise regimen.
David York Agency Home Healthcare Helps Seniors in Nassau County
At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies in Nassau County that provide in home health care services. At DYA, we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (718) 376-7755. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
For more helpful tips and information, contact us today.
