Almost a third of seniors in the U.S. qualify as being obese. Obesity contributes to poor long-term health and promotes complications from diabetes, heart disease, and a long list of other health concerns. Long story short, some family caretakers may have to consider putting their loved one a weight loss plan, and remote family caretakers may find this more of a challenge, especially if your loved one isn't so enamored with the idea.
Our Mom has long been overweight. Both of my parents grew up in families where putting enough food on the table was a daily challenge. My father used to tell me stories of eating soups that only included whatever was harvested from the backyard garden. As parents, they overcompensated by making sure there was plenty of food on the table and encouraged us to eat as much as we could consume in a single sitting. My brother, who is a retired Navy Seal, used to eat a whole roast beef by himself.
I am a diabetic and a chef, so hand selecting the best ingredients and cooking up a storm is a passion of mine. When I was diagnosed with diabetes, I attend a two-week course on proper eating for diabetics. I was a service of my local hospital, and my health benefits covered the cost. I recommend you look into this service if you need it. Anyone who has to be on a nutritional meal needs to learn how to eat. I do my best to cook healthy meals for my Mom, but I am a remote family caretaker. My Mom is capable of living on her own, and I am a good hour-plus drive away. Even so, I consider myself responsible for their health as it pertains to her diet.