If your loved one has mobility limitations or does not have easy access to transportation, offer to drive them to appointments (if you can) or help them make other transportation arrangements.

For example, you might ask, “Do you need me to swing by the pharmacy and pick up a refill of your blood pressure medication?” or “How are you feeling? Is that pain in your knees any better?”

Getting groceries and other necessities. Doing chores around the house and yard. Basic self-care, such as bathing or getting dressed.

For example, if your relative has to have their hip replaced, you might offer to stay with them for a while after their surgery and help out around the house. You can also attend pre- and post-operative medical appointments so that you know how to care for your relative during their recovery and deal with any potential complications.

Going to medical appointments with them and taking notes. Assertively expressing concerns or asking questions about their healthcare during appointments or hospital stays. For example, “Could you please explain what this medication is for, and what the risks and side effects might be?” Getting familiar with your relative’s symptoms, health history, and any past or current medications or treatments they have received.

For example, you might say something like, “I really care about you, and I know you’ve been dealing with some stress and health issues lately. Just know I’m always here for you if you need help. ” Avoid shaming and blaming or offering simplistic advice, such as “You just need to stop eating so much junk food!”

For example, you might say, “Hey, I need to walk the dog, and it’s really nice out. Want to go with me?”

If you think your relative is dropping indirect hints, ask questions to find out if they’re interested in help. For example, if they say, “I really need to get in shape,” you might say something like, “Would you maybe be interested in working out with me?”

For example, you might say, “I know we both have a habit of snacking late at night. How about we check in with each other every evening after dinner and remind each other not to eat any junk food right before bedtime?”

For example, instead of helping your relative set a goal of losing a certain amount of weight in a certain time, encourage them to set a specific fitness goal (e. g. , “Let’s plan to walk for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. ”).

For example, instead of saying, “Wow, Aunt Susan, you look fantastic after losing all that weight!” say something like, “I’m so proud of you for sticking to your diet and exercise program like this. I know it’s not easy. ”

Working with them to determine what caused the setback, and helping them avoid a repetition. For example, maybe they tend to overeat when you go out to a particular restaurant together. If so, avoid going back for a while. Helping them keep it in perspective. Remind them of everything they’ve accomplished so far, and point out the progress they’ve made overall instead of focusing on the individual ups and downs along the way.

For example, you might say, “I believe in you, Phil. You’re the best brother ever, and one of the kindest and strongest people I know. If you ever need help, I’m here. ”

Say things that let them know you are listening and empathizing, like “I hear ya,” or “That must be so tough. ” Try rephrasing some of the things they say, so that it’s clear you are making an effort to understand. For example, “It sounds like you have a really hard time staying active because your job keeps you behind a desk so much. ”

For example, you might say, “Hey, Mom, I know how much you love gardening. Why don’t we check out the new plant nursery that just opened up downtown? Maybe we can pick out a couple rose bushes for the front yard and plant them together. ”

For example, your relative may have an underlying health condition that makes it hard for them to stay active, or they might be on a medication that makes them gain weight. Never assume that someone is obese because they are “lazy” or “not trying hard enough. ”

High triglycerides and low HDL (“good cholesterol”) High blood pressure Type 2 diabetes Stroke Heart disease Certain types of cancer Breathing problems, especially sleep apnea Gallbladder disease Problems with sexual and reproductive health Liver disease Osteoarthritis

Certain medical conditions, such as Prader-Willi syndrome and Cushing’s syndrome. Some types of medications, such as antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, beta blockers, steroids, diabetes medications, and antipsychotic medications. Conditions that limit mobility, such as severe arthritis.

Diet and exercise. Behavioral therapy. Prescription weight loss medications. Surgical options, such as gastric bypass surgery. Treatments for underlying conditions, such as depression, eating disorders, or metabolic disorders. [18] X Expert Source Pouya Shafipour, MD, MSBoard Certified Family Medicine Specialist Expert Interview. 8 May 2020. In some cases, support groups or counseling can be helpful.