As people get older, they may feel less energetic. They no longer have the vigor they had in their younger years. Is fatigue in older adults normal? Is this just a natural byproduct of aging, or can something be done about it to remain physically and mentally sharp? Learn about the correlation between fatigue and age.
Is Fatigue a Normal Part of Aging?
It’s not uncommon for seniors to report excessive fatigue. Most people dismiss it as a side-effect of getting older. However, fatigue is more likely a symptom of a number of conditions that affect seniors.
With this in mind, there’s indeed a correlation between fatigue and old age. Let’s examine some of the causes that lead to constant lethargy.
What Can Cause Extreme Fatigue in the Elderly?
Here are several conditions seniors may be more susceptible to that leads to a lack of energy.
Anemia
Anemia affects an estimated 10% of men and women over the age of 65. Anemia occurs when there’s inadequate red blood cell production to transport oxygen to your organs and muscle tissues. This may cause one to constantly feel fatigued, weak, and even dizzy.
Dehydration
Fatigue is a common symptom of not getting enough fluids in the body. Seniors are more likely to suffer from chronic dehydration. This isn’t because they drink less water per se, but because they are more likely to take medications like blood pressure medicine and diuretics that cause dehydration as a side effect.
Arthritis
49.6% of people over the age of 65 have arthritis that has been diagnosed by a doctor. How are joint pain and fatigue related? Arthritis can disrupt your sleep pattern and affect sleep quality, in turn leading to midday fatigue.
Kidney Disease
According to the National Kidney Foundation, 50% of seniors 75 years or older have kidney disease. As you get older, so does your kidney. This organ may lose its ability to filter out toxins. The accumulation of toxins and other impurities can lead to a feeling of tiredness and being “weighed down.”
How to Prevent Fatigue in Seniors
Fortunately, it’s possible to raise your energy levels naturally without excessively resorting to stimulants like caffeine. Consider these methods that only require small life modifications.
Take B Vitamins
Consume foods high in the B vitamin complex family. Various B vitamins help to keep you alert. Vitamin B12, for example, converts the foods you consume into energy that your cells can utilize. It also assists in red blood cell production and prevents the energy-zapping anemia discussed earlier. Foods high in B vitamins include leafy vegetables, yogurt, legumes, and trout.
Watch Your Naps
Sleeping too long during the day may lead to restlessness during bedtime and disrupt your circadian rhythm. As a result of not getting quality nightly sleep, you end up fatigued during daylight hours. If you nap during the day, keep it no more than 30 minutes.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration causes fatigue by slowing the body’s enzymatic activity. Avoid dehydration by following the golden rule of drinking eight glasses of water per day. If drinking plain water feels like a chore, add some natural flavoring, such as a squeeze of lemon juice, or try fruit-infused water.
Spend More Time Outdoors
Spend at least 30 minutes outside during daylight hours. Getting some sunlight exposure increases your body’s natural production of vitamin D. A 2015 study found a strong correlation between fatigue and vitamin D deficiency.
We Help Your Senior Loved One Stay Alert
At Home Instead, our CAREGivers will help your elderly loved ones partake in activities or lifestyle habits that keep them alert and energetic. Contact us today to learn more about our caregiving services and our commitment to home care for senior members of our community.
Interested in becoming a CAREGiver? Check out our CAREGiver job opportunities!
