Obesity is certainly no laughing matter, nonetheless, it’s heartbreaking to see many seniors battling with excess fats and its health risks every single day. All throughout this blog, we’ve been promoting good health and fit bodies for seniors since that’s the only way we, seniors, can achieve quality life and enjoy our bodies while it lasts. Back then when obesity used to be just a bad habit of eating, when you see an obese person ambling to God-knows-where, you suppress a snicker. Nowadays, you can’t do anything but feel sorry for them and swear to yourself you won’t ever allow that to happen to your body. I say, with food choices today, it’s something that is easier said than done!
There’s something more than just being fat or carrying that extra weight. For seniors, it represents many health problems going on inside of you. Sadly, most obese seniors won’t accept the fact that they need help unless it’s too late for them, or their bodies to be saved. According to statistics, one out of three older adults in America suffers from obesity. Of these affected seniors, expect them to have one or two of the following: heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension—and that’s just half of the story!
Obesity is also to blame for health conditions such as sleeping problems, breathing difficulties and depression. Then there are osteoarthritis, incontinence and skin infections to boot, if you are really lucky. Do take note that an obese person is most likely to live a life of a disabled person than enjoy a normal lifestyle. Severe obesity, on the other hand, more or less, leads to death. Severe obesity or morbid obesity is when dieting is no longer effective and your condition now calls for drastic measures such as an operation. Generally, it is safe for obese seniors to undergo weight loss surgeries i.e bariatric and gastric surgeries, however, you still have to consult your doctor if you are thinking of having one as these surgeries do have their own sets of pros and cons to consider. Also, not everyone who has weight problem is recommended for such surgeries as your health provider will have to assess if you are qualified for one. For one, you must have a minimum of 35 BMI and in high risk of health problems.
Another point to consider is that, medically assisted weight management surgeries are just your first step in weight reduction. You will still have to observe your diet and do some exercises if you want to be healthy.