Fat-to-Fit Program Can Help Seniors Lose Weight

"For the past 10 years I have had a terrible time losing weight and now, at age 70, I’ve all but given up. Boredom has set in and I seem to be eating more now and exercising less since my husband died. Help!"

Sound familiar? There is help available. Fitness expert and author Carole Carson lost more than 60 pounds at age 60. She now works with AARP, which recently launched the third annual “Fat-to-Fit Summer Weight Loss Challenge,” an online program challenging and supporting people to make positive, permanent life changes to improve their health.

Studies show people are more likely to stick to exercise plans when they have support. The Fat-to-Fit program focuses on personal interaction with both Carson and other participants through the Fat-to-Fit online community of more than 18,000 members.

Challengers will be able to access free diet and fitness tips, Carson’s columns and blogs, videos, recipes and more. They are urged to post frequent updates and to exchange ideas, encouragement, recipes and moral support.

And registrants have a chance to win $2,000. Official registration, rules and details are available at www.aarp.org/fat2fit.

“Most of us know what we need to do, but we need help making lifestyle changes,” Carson said. “The Fat-to-Fit community will help you make new friends as you learn how to incorporate exercise into your schedule. You’ll find an exercise that fits your specific needs and cuts calories, leading to a longer, healthier life.”

The challenge runs through July 9, 2011, and visitors to AARP’s Website (http://www.aarp.org/) can register to join throughout the duration of the challenge.

Carson will select weekly small-prize winners and, at the end of the program, she will select three overall winners. Winners will be chosen based on three criteria: serving as a role model for the entire community, facing and overcoming challenges, and demonstrating the principles of the Fat-to-Fit program.

You mention being bored. That could be why you are overeating. Perhaps you can help others while helping yourself. Why not consider a career in caregiving? Seniors such as you serve as caregivers for other older adults providing such services as companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, errands and shopping. Contact your Frederick County Home Instead Senior Care® office today to learn more.

For more information about Home Instead Senior Care of Frederick County, go to www.homeinstead.com/627 or call 301-846-9922. For more about the program, visit www.aarp.org/fat2fit.