Retirement is a time for many of us to let loose, relax and enjoy the golden moments of our lives. However, relaxing does not mean that we let our waistlines go. Weight gain and loss can severely impact your health, mobility and quality of life. With all the amazing possibilities of a renewed and fulfilled life after retirement, the last thing you would want is for weight-related complications to throw a spanner in the works. Here are four critical reasons why you should maintain a healthy weight in your retirement.
Extra Weight Limits Your Mobility
All types of bodies are beautiful but being overweight can place limitations on your mobility. A heavier person experiences more strain on the joints in their knees, legs, and hips. This may result in pain and even long-term mobility issues – all of which may result in a loss of independence and a need for a walking device or caregiver.
Obesity Can Lead to Critical Illnesses
Research shows that obesity is one of the leading contributors to critical illnesses such as Type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These critical illnesses can severely impact your quality of life and limit the activities and foods that you may well enjoy into your retirement years.
Being Underweight Increases the Risk of Fractures
Being underweight is also an issue of concern to seniors. Underweight seniors, coupled with the increased probability of osteoporosis, are at risk of bone fractures. Seniors with a bone fracture can experience a weakening of their immune system. This may result in susceptibility to other diseases.
Seniors Find It Harder to Gain and Lose Weight
The metabolism of the human body declines from our late 20s or early 30s. This makes it harder for seniors to maintain or even lose weight. You also lose muscle tone over the years, and this makes it more difficult to have regular exercise or even carry out physical activities daily. The change in hormones in your body as you age also encourages muscle loss and fat storage, further compounding the challenge of keeping to a healthy weight.
Conversely for some seniors, gaining weight becomes very difficult. Prolonged illness, declining mental faculties, a lack of physical activity, and a decrease in appetite leads to them eating lesser. Such seniors may find it hard to keep their weight at a healthy level. Therefore, it is of utmost importance for seniors to watch their weight and maintain it.
Maintain Your Weight and Fitness at Our Assisted Living Community
A combination of the appropriate exercise, diet and the right tips and strategies makes it easier for seniors to maintain their weight. Our Assisted Living community offers you and your loved ones a full continuum of care and active aging programs. Our Celebrations Activities & Events offers a comprehensive series of excursions, exercise classes and wellness programs to keep you active. Our Dimensions Health & Wellness also offers engaging and inclusive health and wellness programs that take care of your physical, medical, emotional and social health.
