Senior Health: Is Obesity Sabotaging Your Bid For Independence?

We often picture the elderly as being frail and malnourished, but this isn’t always the case.  Recent studies show that while people are living longer, they are also spending more years immobile or in poor health.  You may be surprised to know that one of the reasons that people are not healthier during these extra years is that obesity is challenging their well-being.

Being fat takes its toll on the joints.  Hips and knees do not tolerate the burden of excessive weight, and a vicious cycle begins.  As people slow down or stop moving they expend less energy and they tend to gain even more weight, which makes it even harder to get around.

It isn’t just the joints that suffer.  The cardiovascular system suffers too. When fat surrounds the internal organs it becomes harder for you to breath and for your heart to pump efficiently. Obviously this paves the way for heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

It isn’t always easy.  Older people living on a fixed income may find it difficult to maintain a balanced diet and exercise program without help.   Fast foods are easier and cheaper to obtain and prepare.   However, in the long run, the thousands of dollars spent on medicines and trips to the doctor, could go a long way toward seeding a miniature garden or buying fresh fruits and vegetables.  Think long and hard about what your health means to you.  Good health isn’t a given, but it is essential if you want to be strong and independent.

It is time to take responsibility for your own health.  The bigger you are, the weaker you are, and the more difficult it is to exercise.  As a result you are more likely to end up in the hospital being treated for heart disease, diabetes or hip fractures.

Many insurance companies will give you a break if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, and will often provide free or low cost gym membership.  Your doctor will council you on nutrition, health care and exercise programs that will help you take control over your life.

 

 

 

Comments

[ElderKind]

America is heading for a major health crisis. The country has never been older or fatter. Your golden years won't be much fun if you're suffering from the side effects of obesity!