How Seniors Can Lose Weight Without Exercising

In-home care can help aging seniors practice better eating habits and nutrition.
In-home care can help aging seniors practice better eating habits and nutrition.

One of the biggest challenges for seniors with mobility issues or poor health is maintaining their weight or losing weight when they are unable to exercise. Seniors who have diabetes or other conditions whose weight can impact have to do what they can to lose weight to help keep their condition from getting worse.

So, how can your mom or dad lose weight when they can’t exercise? It’s tricky, but it can be done. With some lifestyle changes and some extra support, like in-home care services, your mom or dad can lose the weight they need to lose.

In-home care providers can be a big help for seniors who are trying to lose weight. An in-home care provider can help encourage your mom or dad to stick to their new lifestyle changes. An in-home care provider can help your mom or dad with things like cooking meals, portioning meals, shopping for healthy food, and making sure there are healthy snacks in the house.

Just having someone in the house with them for moral support can help your mom or dad stick to their new routine. Some of the other things that can help your mom or dad lose weight if they can’t exercise are:

Follow a Healthy, Balanced Diet

A nutritious diet is key to weight loss, especially when exercise is not an option. Your mom or dad should be eating meals that include lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.

They need to avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-calorie meals. Smaller, well-balanced portions can help your parent feel satisfied without overeating. Having the support of an in-home care provider who can help with meal preparation will help your mom or dad change their diet.

Control Portion Sizes

Portion control plays a major role in managing weight. Even healthy foods can lead to weight gain if eaten in large quantities. Use smaller plates to help your parent feel satisfied with less food.

Pre-portion snacks and meals to avoid overeating. Teaching your parent to recognize when they’re full can also prevent mindless eating. Drinking water before meals may help them feel full faster, reducing overall calorie intake.

Focus on Low-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense Foods

Eating low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods will help your mom or dad stay full without consuming too many calories. 

These foods include leafy greens, cucumbers, berries, and lean proteins like chicken or fish. Foods high in fiber, such as beans, lentils, and whole grains, can improve digestion and keep your parent feeling full longer. These options are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Limit Liquid Calories

Sugary drinks like soda, sweetened tea, or fruit juice are a common source of hidden calories. Replacing these with water, herbal tea, or low-calorie alternatives can make a big difference in weight loss. 

Encourage your mom or dad to drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and reduce hunger. If they enjoy flavored beverages, consider adding slices of fruit or herbs like mint to their water for a refreshing taste.

If you or an aging loved one is considering In-Home Care in Hazlet, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Lares Home Care (732) 334-3323.

Roy Kleinert