Obesity is a significant health concern that impacts individuals across all age groups, intertwining with and exacerbating numerous other health factors. While it’s crucial for everyone to consider their weight and its implications, it’s especially important for older adults, where the interplay with other health conditions can become more complex and serious.
The Interwoven Risks of Obesity, Especially for Older Adults
Weight management for older adults requires greater mindfulness and clinical nuance than for younger populations. Aging often brings a rise in medical complexity, with older adults more likely to live with multiple chronic conditions and take several medications, adding significant layers of consideration for weight loss interventions. In fact, over 50% of older adults have three or more chronic diseases, necessitating coordinated, multidisciplinary care, according to the American Geriatrics Society.
Clinicians must evaluate how meaningful weight loss could improve obesity-related complications, while also considering potential unintended consequences from rapid or unmonitored health changes. Polypharmacy, or the use of multiple medications, is a common concern in geriatric care; for adults aged 65 and older with Medicare, the median number of prescription medications is four, per the Journals of Gerontology.
The good news is that weight loss surgery has been shown to significantly improve many obesity-related health issues and reduce the need for certain medications. After bariatric surgery, many people find they can reduce or eliminate medications they previously relied on, particularly for conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. Weight loss also improves the efficacy and reduces the need for other medications, such as those for pain or inflammation.
Making Weight Loss Solutions Accessible: Nicholson Clinic and Medicare
Recognizing the widespread need for effective and lasting weight loss solutions, Nicholson Clinic is committed to making its services available to a broader range of patients, and now proudly accepts regular Medicare. At Nicholson Clinic, we will walk you through the process of getting started and will guide you every step of the way. We know that obesity management in older adults requires a careful and tailored approach, prioritizing comorbidity management and risk mitigation. Patients should be informed about how weight loss may interact with existing medical conditions, medication regimens, and musculoskeletal health. We work closely with registered dietitians, exercise physiologists, endocrinologists, and primary care professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to wellness.
Choosing the right weight loss solution and an experienced treatment team is crucial for effective weight loss and lasting results. If you are struggling with weight related conditions and looking to improve your quality of life, give us a call today at 972-494-3100.
