Tipping the Scales: Dealing with the Over Weight Elderly

Much attention is being paid to health problems associated with under weight seniors. Certainly under weight seniors is an important issue, however the National Center for Health Statistics reports the number of obese seniors is on the rise. The obese elderly experience a lower quality of life than seniors of normal weight and are at greater risk for medical conditions. As our senior population grows, so does obesity and its associated medical conditions. Health experts recommend stepping up management of obesity in patients over 65. How can you motivate residents in your community to choose a healthy eating lifestyle? This session will cover tips and techniques on ''gentle'' ways to encourage residents to be active and eat healthy while enjoying the foods they love.

Objectives:

At the completion of this program attendees will be able to:

• Implement practical tips and approaches for senior communities to assist them in encouraging healthy lifestyles for their residents.
• Develop fun and information programs, fact sheets and implentation tools for seniors which promote smart food choices.
• Discover innovative techniques for motivating seniors to be active, eat healthy and enjoy the “golden years”.
• Take back ideas that both the Activities and Dietary departments can implement immediately to support seniors in choosing a healthy lifestyle.

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