Motivating Family to Get Healthy

LemonLizard

I'm not really in a spot to critique my parents too much, but I really want them to get healthy. Both of my parents are close to 60 now, and I honestly worry about their health. My dad wants to get healthy, and he has already lost 5 lbs, but he does have less to lose. My mom on the other hand hasn't really been trying to get healthy, as far as I know. She does walk the dog fairly often during the week but she's still in fairly bad shape. I've tried to persuade them to buy an elliptical or a treadclimber, something that they can do while watching tv, but my mom always just smiles and nods her head, or there is some sort of excuse given to me.

Are there any recommendations to help them try to be healthier? I don't live with them, so I can't encourage them to come on runs or walks with me, and they aren't members of any gym as of right now. I've suggested that they start logging calories because I know my mom will lose weight just by creating a deficit, but it's so hard to get her to listen to my suggestions.

How can I suggest things to them better without sounding insulting or rude? I know all of us would benefit if we were trying to get healthy together.

turpenoid

I think it's really sweet to see you caring about your parents and wanting them to find a healthier path through life. Have you ever talked to them about their physical health, such as blood pressure, pre-diabetes, etc.? Are they actually healthy people beside the aesthetic of being heavy? If they don't know their status on any of this and you think they're at a dangerous point, it may be time to consider asking them to go to a doctor. My dad never decides to lose weight until his doctor tells him he has to. He has hypertension and really needs to become healthier with his eating habits. But he simply won't listen to me or my mom about it.

Here are a few suggestions...
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/10-ways-to-help-a-loved-one-lose-weight

Lizzy622

The best way is to lead by example. Tell them how much better you feel. You can have them over for dinner and show them that healthy food can be delicious and filling.

fullersun35

Maybe your mom is happy with her life as is? You can't force change on people who don't want it.