Our amount and type of physical activity play very important roles not only in weight control, but also in our overall level of health. Loss of muscle mass and strength is common as we age and can be somewhat controlled by staying physically active. Snowbirds have a particular advantage inasmuch as they are able to enjoy more outdoor activities during the winter months. Inactivity exacerbates muscle loss and function, leading to reduction of one’s ability to perform many daily functions, increased inactivity and accelerated loss of independence. If excess weight accompanies inactivity, the risks of ill health and frailty rise. Your physical activity regimen should be focused on resistance strength activity. Specific equipment and professional guidance in gymnasiums may be the answer for many seniors, but the use of home strength-training equipment – such as inexpensive training bands – can achieve the same goals. Such bands can be purchased in any sports store or online for less than $40.00. For most of us, daily walking is still an excellent way to maintain strength and agility. Set weekly goals and try to be diligent in following your plan. In the winter months when weather is a problem, daily use of a treadmill can achieve the same goals. The advantage of physical activity is that it not only combats loss of muscle mass and strength, it also burns calories which helps to control weight. For those living in a house, daily inside and outside chores contribute to maintaining our health, whereas for those in an apartment or condominium, specific physical activity should be a daily plan, whether outside or in a nearby gym (or even in their building!). The recent flurry of interest in, and use of a drug to treat excess weight gain and Type 2 diabetes has flooded the television with ads addressing the wonders of these new pharmaceuticals. The three most common products in Canada are Ozempic, Trulicity and Mounjaro. All three drugs have been approved in both Canada and the U.S. for treatment of Type 2 diabetes, but only in the U.S. for obesity alone. Nevertheless, studies have shown that the drugs are very effective in leading to significant weight loss and are now widely prescribed by physicians in both countries. The drugs stimulate certain hormones in the body which reduce appetite, control blood-sugar levels and affect weight loss. The drugs are self administered by injection, usually weekly. These drugs can adversely affect other medications and about 5% of patients may experience minor or serious side-effects. Patients prescribed this class of drug should be closely monitored by a physician. Maintaining normal weight and keeping physically fit should be a priority for all of us and especially for seniors in preserving our health and longevity. The first step for us is recognizing the importance of these preventive measures and then developing our plan to achieve our goals. Now, I’m going out to cut my lawn before coming in for my nap. And at my next luncheon with my retired buddies, I think that I’ll reduce my favourite draft beverage to just a half pint! Health CSANews | SUMMER 2025 | 35
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