Maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging for an elderly loved one, but it’s an essential part of active senior living. Numerous changes in how an aging body retains weight and processes nutrition can result in a few extra pounds. To understand the importance of healthy weight and how it can be maintained, follow the guide below.

Why Weight Matters

Studies have proven connections between excessive weight and health conditions in seniors, including heart disease and heart failure. Overweight seniors may also find it difficult to maintain healthy movement levels, limiting their ability to enjoy an active lifestyle.

Problems with Being Underweight

While being overweight carries risks, researchers have found that seniors are more likely to suffer health problems due to being underweight. Seniors with a lower body mass index (BMI) than recommended are at an increased risk of decreased immune system function and malnutrition.

How Your Loved One Can Stay Healthy in Their Senior Community

There are many ways to incorporate healthy habits and activities into senior living routines to manage weight. Seniors should schedule an annual checkup with their physician to evaluate their physical health and discuss safe weight loss or gain. Those who need to lose some weight will benefit from regular exercise while ensuring they eat at least two daily servings of fruits, lean vegetables and proteins.

Seniors who struggle to gain weight might try eating several small meals and snacks throughout the day if larger portions are difficult to finish. Select calorie-rich foods such as nuts, dried fruit, pasta, whole grains and full-fat dairy products to regain the needed weight.

 

Turn to St. Charles Community in Covington, KY, for a senior living environment where your loved ones can stay healthy and active. Residents of these senior living apartments can enjoy a wide range of outdoor and social activities that will keep them fit. Also, on-campus dining facilities will offer opportunities to enjoy delicious meals and maintain a healthy weight. For more information, call (859) 331-3224, or visit them online.