In the very first trial of Retrofit, a holistic weight-loss program, 150 caregivers collectively lost more than 1,600 pounds in the last year.

Making time for healthy food choices was hard for Home Care Aide Bev Schmer, a Retrofit participant. (Pictured above with client Wes. Photo by Paul Joseph Brown)

“We are such busy people. We tend to grab food a lot,” Bev says. “We end up having health issues.”

In a recent survey by SEIU 775 Benefits Group, over 40 percent of caregivers reported obese weight levels. Obesity can be a risk factor for diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, depression and anxiety.

SEIU 775 Benefits Group set out to find solutions to help caregivers improve their weight and well-being.

Caregivers testing the Retrofit program were provided personal coaching, a scale and fitness tracker, exercise, nutrition and mindset education and an online community of other caregivers in the program.

Bev lost 18 pounds and reports that she feels like that weight is off for good.

She now always keeps fruit and vegetables on hand – even in her car. Bev told us that as a result of being in Retrofit, she feels healthier and has much more energy.

Caregiver, Retrofit participant Sarah Forst

We asked all caregivers who participated in the program to share their feelings and experiences. While not everyone lost weight on the program, it has been a very positive experience for many.

Home Care Aide Sarah Forst joined Retrofit because she wasn’t having success losing weight on her own.

Sarah, who dropped 35 pounds while on the program, reports that the fitness tracker made a big difference in helping her reach exercise goals.

Sarah also felt that the positive and encouraging nature of her coach contributed to her success. 

“While I was on Retrofit, I had so much energy and I felt like my outlook on everything was much more positive. Even the stresses of my life. I feel like I could deal with it.”