Weighing in Later in Life

Thinking of the elderly, one may never consider the fact that they may not be the frail, thin, weak aging person that comes to mind.  In fact there is a growing concern over the obesity percentage in elderly persons. A research study in 2004 reported that in the year 2000, 32 percent of persons age 60 and older were obese, and estimated that by the year 2010 this percentage would be more than 37 percent. The rate of obesity in the elderly is increasing, as obese "Baby Boomers" begin to fall into that age range.

Another study that was conducted found that obesity is actually a common problem among the elderly. This is due to decreased mobility and loss of muscle mass due to this decrease in motion.  Increasing muscle mass can contribute to better health in the elderly.  It is suggested that strength training would improve elderly health.

There are secondary effects that coincide with obesity, including Type 2 diabetes, stroke, sleep apnea, liver and gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure as well as breast, colon & prostrate cancer. Aging individuals require less caloric intake due to the fact that they are burning less and less calories due to decreased mobility. Diet and exercise are necessary to maintain a healthy weight as we age. You can lose 1 to 2 pounds per week by simply decreasing your calorie intake by 550 calories per day.  This will decrease your risk of diseases linked to obesity.