For those who are overweight or obese, losing weight can mean the difference between chronic disease and a long, high-quality life. This is especially obvious for seniors who frequently deal with chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis, many of which can be tied to one’s diet and activity level. According to the Centers for Disease Control, even a small change in one’s weight can equal big results. The CDC recommends aiming for a 5 to 10 percent weight loss initially, which has been shown to decrease seniors’ risks of chronic diseases immensely.
Healthy Diets and Activity for Seniors
Instead of focusing on fad diets, seniors are encouraged to focus on eating healthy, whole foods in moderate quantities and on increasing daily activity. Seniors looking for a fresh, new diet are encouraged to try the DASH diet or the Mediterranean diet, which regularly make it to the top of the best diet lists. These two diets specifically target weight loss while also decreasing symptoms related to many of the most common chronic diseases in seniors, such as diabetes and increased blood pressure.
In addition, seniors should focus on regular physical activity. They do not have to do high-intensity workouts, such as jumping jacks or running, that could be very hard on their joints. Instead, simple activities, such as walking, water aerobics, and yoga, can yield great results when done regularly. The best results will come from following an exercise regimen that one can stick with long-term.
