While the aging process looks different for everyone, many people notice changes in body weight and body composition in later life or middle age. These commonly observed changes can make it harder for some people to maintain their weight, even if they previously had no issues maintaining it before. In some cases, these changes may feel frustrating, even when no underlying health concern is present. Here’s what the research says about age-related factors associated with weight changes.
Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Weight for Seniors
Research suggests that maintaining a stable weight within a certain range is important at any age, including middle life and later life. Some studies have examined associations between body weight patterns and factors such as circulation or the presence of certain chronic conditions like osteoarthritis (though findings vary and are not the same for everyone).
What a “healthy weight” looks like can vary by person, which is why it’s important to discuss weight-related questions with a licensed healthcare professional who can consider personal health history and individual circumstances.
What Factors Impact Weight Management While Aging?
Everyone ages differently, meaning certain factors that apply to one person may not apply to someone else. Research has explored a range of factors that may be associated with weight changes during aging, including the following.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Life happens. It’s easy to get caught up in daily life, from going to work to raising kids and pets to keeping the home clean. With so much going on, it can be easy for certain habits, such as prioritizing certain food choices and regular physical activity, to fall by the wayside. Studies have examined how changes in daily habits like these may be associated with changes in body weight over time, including both unintentional weight loss and weight gain.
Establishing new habits, all under the guidance of licensed healthcare providers, like primary care physicians and dietitians, can help people develop weight management plans suited to their specific body needs and goals.
Many people adopt new habits like making different food choices and regular exercise. USDA data suggest that diets containing nutrient-dense lean proteins, fruits, whole grains, and vegetables (while reducing intake of ultra-processed foods) may be able to help all age groups, including older adults, maintain a healthy weight (although individual needs can vary). Research also associates a combination of aerobic (“cardio”), strength-training, and balance exercises with body composition changes.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations are common throughout all life stages, with some of those fluctuations potentially contributing to weight management challenges. For example, research has associated certain age-related hormonal changes, such as those experienced during and after menopause, to body changes like alterations in muscle mass, appetite, and metabolism.
3. Medication Side Effects
Seniors are more likely than other age groups to take prescription medications or over-the-counter supplements, and data shows that use of multiple medications is rising among older people. Evidence suggests that some of these medications’ side effects (or how they interact with other medications) correlate with changes in appetite, metabolism, and body weight.
4. Chronic Health Conditions
Seniors are more likely to have new or worsening chronic conditions compared to other age groups. Research suggests that some of these conditions, such as diabetes, correlate with changes in metabolism as well as mobility, which can make it harder to exercise. These changes are highly complex, though, and vary by individual.
Overall, midlife and later life adults are more likely than younger age groups to experience one or more potential factors that can make weight management challenging.
FAQs
What factors make losing weight more difficult with age?
Everyone ages differently, but research commonly notes that lifestyle changes, hormonal changes, medication side effects, and chronic conditions are associated with age-related weight management difficulties.
Why should older adults maintain a healthy weight?
Evidence suggests that maintaining a healthy weight, coupled with regular exercise and a healthy diet, may help:
- Reduce the risk of health problems like stroke, diabetes, and heart disease
- Improve balance, which in turn may help reduce the risk of falls
- Improve mobility, leading to a greater sense of independence and a lower possible risk of social isolation
Findings from this research are observational, however, and are not intended to replace individualized medical guidance.
Supporting Mind, Body & Spirit at Avista
Everyone’s health journey is unique. At Avista Senior Living communities, we offer the support residents need to make more informed choices regarding their mental health and overall well-being. Join us for a tour or meal to see the Avista difference for yourself.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Each individual’s health situation is unique. Readers should consult a licensed healthcare provider for guidance related to their personal health concerns.