Losing weight can be a daunting task for seniors that are over the age of 65. Even seniors who don’t have health conditions that make exercise difficult struggle to lose weight. A slower metabolism and other natural aging factors make it difficult for seniors to lose weight. But it’s not impossible, and it’s worth the effort, especially with the support of home care assistance. Seniors who are overweight and lose even a small amount of weight can significantly lower their risk of diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes.
But because losing weight after 65 is so challenging it’s important for seniors to approach weight loss differently than they did when they were younger. These tips can help seniors who are over 65 start losing weight:
Simple Exercise Can Lead To Big Results
Even if seniors can’t do a lot of intense exercise they should do some exercise. But simple exercise can lead to big results. A daily walk that’s at least 30 minutes long and strength training sessions 3-4 times per week can really help boost weight loss. Seniors will be surprised at how effective just walking and strength training can be for helping them lose weight, improve their mobility, and keep their muscles strong.
Eat A Mostly Vegetable Based Diet
Vegetables should be the primary foods that seniors are eating. Vegetables are low in calories, packed with vitamins and minerals, and delicious. A vegetable based diet that also includes some fruit, some whole grains like whole grain bread, and lean proteins is a healthy way for seniors to make sure they are eating enough without eating too much. Eating less processed food and more whole food that’s home cooked will really help seniors lose weight.
Seniors who need help shopping for healthy food or cooking healthy meals can get home care assistance. With home care assistance seniors can get help with everything at home from chores like laundry to cooking and shopping. Home care assistance makes it easier for seniors to lose weight by helping them manage portions and focus on their diets.
Drink More Water
Staying hydrated will also help seniors lose weight. Seniors should be drinking water throughout the day and staying away from caffeinated drinks like soda that can make seniors thirstier. Sodas, iced teas with sugar, and other drinks can also help pack on the pounds with their empty calories. Senior should stick to plain water in order to help them lose weight. Herbal teas can also be very refreshing.
Manage Stress
Stress can make seniors gain weight or have difficult losing weight. When the body is under stress it pumps out cortisol, a stress hormone, that can lead to increased belly fat and make it hard to lose weight. Exercise is a good way to manage stress. So is meditation. Meditation, journaling, pursuing hobbies, and other activities that help lower a senior’s stress level will also help seniors lose weight. Adopting a pet can also help lower stress levels. Adopting a dog can be the perfect way to lower stress and get the motivation to go for a walk every day.
Call today: (478)-994-9535. Home Care Matters Provides Award-Winning, Trusted Home Care Assistance in Bibb, Butts, Crawford, Henry, Houston, Jones, Lamar, Monroe, Spalding, and Upson Counties.
We serve the towns of Forsyth, Macon, McDonough, Griffin, Jonesboro, Roberta, Barnesville, Gray, Thomaston, and Jackson.
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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