Every morning at 5:30, 65-year-old Minh and her daughter-in-law, Lien, embark on an hour-long walk around their local park. They then visit the market or go for a swim before Lien heads to work. While Lien is at work, Minh attends spa treatments, including massages to relax her muscles after exercising. Weekends are dedicated to grocery shopping and collaborative cooking, preparing nutritious meals for the family.

This routine began three months ago after Minh was diagnosed with osteoarthritis and disc herniation. Dr. Truong Thi Vanh Khuyen, from the Endocrinology - Diabetes Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, advised Minh to lose weight to alleviate pressure on her joints, slow the progression of her condition, and potentially avoid surgery. Minh also manages high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, high uric acid, and a visceral fat index of 192 cm2, nearly double the healthy limit.

Initially, Minh attempted dieting and daily walks on her own, but her weight remained unchanged, leading to discouragement. Lien stepped in, becoming her mother-in-law's weight loss partner. Lien also consulted Dr. Khuyen and started her own weight loss program, weighing 65 kg at the time, with a BMI of 25, bordering on obesity.

The initial stages presented challenges. Minh frequently forgot her medication schedule and struggled to maintain a consistent exercise routine. Lien, too, found it difficult to balance her work and personal life with the new regimen. When their weight plateaued, Lien confided in her husband, recognizing the need for change. To support both his wife and mother, he took on the responsibility of taking their child to school each morning. This allowed Lien more time to focus on her mother-in-law's health, including preparing balanced meals. The entire family shifted their diet, replacing rich dishes like braised fish and meat with lighter, vegetable-rich options such as salads, spring rolls, and cold noodle dishes.

Instead of hiring domestic help, the two women shared household chores to increase their physical activity. Minh tended to the garden, while Lien cleaned the house. Weekend evenings were reserved for family outings to the park, where they joined senior groups for gentle exercises, folk dances, and ballroom dancing. These activities provided Minh with both physical activity and social interaction, boosting her mood and overall well-being.

"You slow down so I can keep up, and I'll try to be faster," Minh joked, adding that having her family's support significantly increased her motivation.

Minh (left) and Lien during a consultation at Tam Anh General Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

Minh (left) and Lien during a consultation at Tam Anh General Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

Lien set reminders to ensure Minh took her medication as prescribed, both injections and oral, to suppress appetite and manage her conditions. Lien, with a milder degree of weight gain, used oral medication.

Dr. Khuyen explained that with age, metabolic rate decreases, affecting the secretion of digestive enzymes. This can lead to deficiencies in certain micronutrients like vitamin B12, which plays a role in converting fat into energy. These factors, combined with age-related muscle loss and underlying health conditions, make weight loss more challenging for older adults compared to younger individuals.

Dr. Khuyen consults with Minh on her weight loss program. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Khuyen consults with Minh on her weight loss program. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

After a month of dedication, Minh lost 4 kg. By the third month of treatment, her weight was down to 68 kg. She experienced reduced joint pain and improved blood lipid levels. Lien lost 8 kg in three months, achieving a slimmer and more toned physique. Both women continue to follow their respective programs to reach their target weights.

Duc Hanh

*Names have been changed.