One of the top New Year’s resolutions, along with quitting smoking, is losing weight. Our bodies are constantly changing with each passing year, so losing weight in our senior years is a constant challenge. As we enter our senior years, we lose significant muscle mass. Many seniors gain, and maintain weight, simply because they are not as active as they once were.
Allcare Home Health Agency, Inc has put together a few tips for managing weight as a senior.
- Always remember that everyone is different. No two people are alike. What works for one person won’t necessarily work for another. Consult with your doctor regarding a healthy weight for your body type, and work towards that goal. Diets do not work! Maintaining a healthy weight is a lifestyle, not a quick fix.
- Watch your calories! This doesn’t necessarily mean that you should eat less, only that you should eat more of the right foods and less of the wrong foods. Eating foods high in nutrients should be the main staple in a healthy diet. High fiber in a senior’s diet is important. Fruits like raspberries, apples, pears, and bananas are good sources of fiber. Vegetables such as green peas, broccoli, potatoes, sweet corn, cauliflower, and whole grains like legumes, nuts, and seeds should also be added to a healthy diet.
- Get plenty of exercise. This doesn’t mean powerlifting or running a marathon. As an older adult, it is important just to move! Take a walk around the block, do some simple stretches, balance and flexibility exercises, or lightweight exercises if you can. It increases your energy, improves your mental health, and makes all the difference in the world!
As a family caregiver of a senior, if you have concerns about the weight of your loved one, please consult your primary physician for advice.
For seniors with limited mobility, our caregivers can assist with gentle exercises that have been recommended by the senior’s physician or care team. Our caregivers can also assist with preparing healthy meals and monitoring diet.
At Allcare Home Health Agency, Inc, we encourage people of all ages to live their best life. Good health is a lifestyle. Our experienced caregivers will help in any way that we can. Keeping a healthy weight is always difficult, but with the right support system, you can be successful! Call (919) 301-0236 today!