75-year-olds will never be as naturally active and physically fit as 20-year-olds. However, chronic or debilitating fatigue isn’t typical and could indicate an underlying issue. In general, fatigue that significantly limits what you can do every day, influencing your decisions and choices, suggests that something is wrong. Your life should be your adventure dictated by your rules and choices, not the limits imposed by chronic fatigue.
Common Causes of Fatigue in Seniors
Medical Conditions: Many chronic illnesses, such as heart disease and diabetes, contribute to fatigue, and medications addressing those conditions might even make the problem worse.
Sleep Disorders: Anything that lessens your sleep quality, such as sleep apnea, can disrupt the restorative sleep cycles seniors need to maintain energy levels.
Lifestyle Factors: Poor nutrition, dehydration, and lack of regular physical activity can all lead to reduced energy, as sedentary habits often worsen fatigue over time.
Fatigue doesn’t feel great, but that isn’t the end of the story. Seniors who feel drained may withdraw from social activities, further compounding the problem. Since seniors also suffer from increased social isolation, this is a nasty cycle to break. Living in an assisted living and memory care facility like A Banyan Residence is a fantastic way for seniors dealing with fatigue to still engage in their community without much trouble.
Ways Seniors Can Enhance Energy and Sleep Quality
There are many ways to improve energy levels and fight back against fatigue, but seniors should always remember that sudden diet or exercise changes can sometimes do more harm than good. A talk with your doctor should always be your first move after experiencing fatigue. They can potentially identify the issue and address it without requiring drastic changes. But if fatigue still remains, here are some practical tips to try:
Incorporate Physical Activity: Regular exercise is a surefire way to boost energy levels and enhance cardiovascular health. Begin slowly with light activities and gradually increase the intensity to build stamina and heart health.
Eat a Balanced Diet: It sounds simple, but a healthy diet is also a great way to address a general, whole-body issue like fatigue. Focus on healthy meals and avoid processed foods that lead to energy crashes.
Stay Hydrated: Especially in Florida, many seniors overlook the impact of low-level dehydration on their energy levels. Just because you aren’t begging for water doesn’t mean your body has the ideal amount. Don’t drink excessive amounts of water, but remember how increased activity levels paired with hot Florida days can accelerate potential dehydration concerns.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: The best way to regulate your internal clock is by falling asleep and waking up at a similar time each day. Each person has their own preferred method of falling into a deep sleep, so find what works for you and stick with it.
Foster Social Connections: Fatigue isn’t always physical, and many of the issues you are experiencing might stem from a lack of social interaction and excitement. Spending time with friends and family combats these feelings and gives you a reason to get up and move.
Limit Stimulants Before Bed: Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours leading up to sleep, and potentially remove them from your diet entirely. Even in low amounts, they can negatively interact with your body and reduce energy the next day.
Get Regular Medical Checkups: After talking to your doctor initially, keep in touch and inform them of any changes to your fatigue levels along your journey.
Some amount of fatigue and general “slowing down” is a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to dictate your daily life, nor should it. You still have many opportunities to have a heathy and vibrant life.
If you or a family member are looking for a way to begin healthy habits, join a community, and receive assistance during your senior years, contact A Banyan Residence today to schedule a tour of our facility.
