Older Adults: Walk for Weight Loss, Increased Mobility

We all know the problems with carrying around a lot of extra weight especially if you're an older overweight adult. Aching and stiff knee joints, back pain, and decreased mobility are all signs that you may be carrying too much weight. The answer is to lose that extra weight, or at least try to get rid of some of it before your knees give out.

Results from a five-year study study from researchers at Wake Forest University communicate some good news for seniors. The study has determined that getting out and walking, along with losing weight, can increase mobility in seniors by as much as 20 percent. The researchers indicated that this holds true for those seniors who might even have less than perfect cardiovascular health. The study looked at about 300 senior participants who were overweight.

What Worked Best for Seniors

Before this Wake Forest study, conventional wisdom declared that weight loss in senior adults was just not healthy. This latest study seemed to indicate that the combination of physical activity and weight loss produced the best results. Researcher Jack Rejeski, Thurman D. Kitchin Professor of Health and Exercise Science stated, "This is one of the first large studies to show that weight loss improves the functional health of older people with cardiovascular disease."

Good News for Overweight Seniors

More than half of all people over the age of 65 walk less than one mile each week. This is really great news for those folks over 55 or 60 who really need to address the problem of their weight. The results of this study can help families and community agencies can be more effective in getting help for this rapidly growing segment of the population.

Seniors who are afraid of losing their mobility over time can now increase the length they remain mobile. Participants ranging in age from 60 to 79 had their results tracked over a period of 18 months. Those seniors in the study who were suffering from the most limited mobility improved the most. Some participants were able to increase their overall mobility by as much as 20 percent.

The Risks Are Very Serious

Most seniors are totally unaware of where their decreased mobility may lead, or they just don't want to admit there is a problem. Decreased mobility can lead to continued and more severe loss of health. When seniors cannot get around anymore, they are open to a whole slew of worsening health conditions. Doctors refer to this worsening health as a cascade of adverse outcomes which may lead to hospitalizations, increased disability, necessary institutionalization, and eventual death.

A senior's ability to walk on their own and function in their community is essential for continuing good health and longevity. Communities, institutions, and families need to get more involved and develop ways in which seniors can get out there, get active, lose some weight and enjoy a longer, better quality of life.

The information in this article should not be considered medical advice. Consult a qualified medical professional or health care provider before starting any new exercise plan or diet.

Sources:

Weight Loss Plus Walking Essential for Older, Obese Adults

The Importance of Exercising for Seniors