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 the “epidemic” is slightly exaggerated, 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.

An increased BMI level heightens the risk of developing certain chronic diseases. Hypertension, cardiac disease, and stroke correlate with inclined results. Increased body weight impacts knee and joint stress, creating mobility problems and declining physical ability. Research has shown a possible correlation between obesity and early cognitive impairment or mental decline, too.

Three 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. Please consult your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program.

Tip #1. Eat Healthy Foods:

Controlling food portions at mealtimes and monitoring caloric intake are important. It is essential to provide the proper type of nourishment to the body. 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.

Tip #2. 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 can help to burn more calories. A good exercise regimen includes a half hour daily.

Tip #3. 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 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.

Senior Health and Well-being

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.

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

Many families prefer Comfort Keepers® when arranging senior home care services for a loved one in or around Vancouver, British Columbia. 

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones, we can help with 24-hour care. Comfort Keepers Vancouver also provides home care services like respite care, overnight care, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care, personal care, and more! 

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver Can Help with Companion Care and Interactive Caregiving™

Personal and empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our clients’ needs. Comfort Keeper’s philosophy is to elevate the human spirit, and our caregivers ensure your loved one experiences a better quality of life.

Trained caregivers help provide our senior clients with personal home care to help maintain the highest possible quality of life, keeping them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ delivers a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Bring The Best Home Care Assistance for Seniors Right Where You Live with Comfort Keepers®

Comfort Keepers® Vancouver is proud to provide elder care in homes throughout Vancouver, keeping 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. 

Personal Care and Senior Homecare in Vancouver, BC

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.

Accredited and Quality Respite Care Available 24/7 for British Columbia Families

Accreditation Canada has awarded Comfort Keepers® Vancouver with Exemplary Standing. This designation is only achieved after an organization’s policies, procedures, and processes undergo a thorough evaluation by industry experts to ensure they meet or exceed the stringent quality standards set by Accreditation Canada for Home Care companies.

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