As people age, the amount of energy that their body uses decreases, and this combined with reduced physical activity and changes in the way that the body metabolises food, predispose older people to weight gain and the dangers of obesity.
This tendency can have a significant impact on general health and wellbeing. For instance, carrying excessive weight puts additional strain on joints, which may exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis. In addition, obesity is known to have strong links with heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and may have potential links with gallstones, breast and prostate cancer (which tends to be more common in older men). Being overweight places additional strain on the body, and may also cause emotional stress and depression.
Checklist
- A BMI > 30 (extreme obesity > 40)
- A waist circumference of greater than 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women.
- Breathlessness after mild physical activity.
- A sedentary lifestyle.
- General feelings of tiredness.
- Feelings of extreme thirst and the need to urinate frequently
HOW WEIGHTMATTERS CAN HELP
DOCTOR
Our doctor can run a health check and assess the impact of obesity on your physical and mental health. We can carry out tests for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, assessing the potential for other health risks as a result of your obesity
DIETICIAN
Our dietician will design a nutritionally balanced programme to assist in healthy weight loss and provide support in promoting other lifestyle changes
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Our therapists can support you in understanding and addressing psychological issues that may underlie your weight gain
