Key Takeaways
- Common underlying causes of fatigue for older adults include anemia, thyroid disorders, heart disease, sleep apnea, depression or anxiety, and other chronic conditions.
- Sleeping more than usual, skipping meals, or just seeming off can all be signs of fatigue.
- Some fatigue is part of the aging process. But if the fatigue is sudden, intense, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be time to involve a medical professional.
Fatigue doesn’t always mean a problem with sleep. Even if your loved one has a great morning routine and evening routine, fatigue sometimes develops as a result of underlying conditions. When your loved one is sleeping more than usual, skipping meals, or just seems “off,” don’t ignore it. This is often a sign that your loved one needs some additional support.
Common underlying causes of fatigue for older adults include:
- Anemia
- Thyroid disorders
- Heart disease
- Sleep apnea
- Depression or anxiety
- Chronic conditions
How to Recognize Extreme Fatigue in an Older Loved One
Fatigue doesn’t always present as sleepiness. It can also appear as a loss of focus, irritability, or frequent illness. The more signs you notice, the more likely something’s contributing to their low energy.
Fatigue often causes symptoms such as:
- Sleeping for long hours during the day
- Difficulty staying awake during activities or conversations
- Loss of interest in hobbies or favorite pastimes
- Moving or reacting more slowly than usual
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things
- Mood swings or increased irritability
- Skipping meals or forgetting to eat
If you notice these factors, don’t ignore them. Instead, take the time to look into the possible underlying cause.
Common Medical Causes of Fatigue in Seniors
Medical fatigue often stems from underlying conditions. It’s helpful to know what might be going on internally when your loved one seems constantly tired.
Heart Disease
When the heart isn’t pumping efficiently, less oxygen reaches the body’s tissues. This can leave a person feeling exhausted even after minimal activity. In older adults, heart problems may appear as minor chest pain or shortness of breath. If your loved one tires quickly after standing, walking, or climbing stairs, bring it up with a healthcare provider.
Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid helps regulate metabolism, which directly affects energy levels. When the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism), fatigue can become a daily challenge. This health concern may also cause weight gain, cold sensitivity, or forgetfulness. Meanwhile, overactive thyroids (hyperthyroidism) can also lead to tiredness, along with anxiety and a racing heart.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep doesn’t always mean rest. Many older adults experience sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or insomnia. These conditions prevent deep sleep, which can leave them feeling drained, no matter how long they were in bed. If your loved one naps frequently or wakes up feeling groggy, consider asking about their sleep quality.
Anemia
Low red blood cell counts mean less oxygen is carried to the brain and muscles. This is called anemia, and it often leads to fatigue, even when a person hasn’t done anything strenuous. This can develop due to low iron, chronic inflammation, or even B12 deficiency. Anemia is more common in adults over 65 and often goes unnoticed until more symptoms develop.
Medication Side Effects
Many prescriptions used to treat chronic conditions list fatigue symptoms as a side effect. Blood pressure medications, antihistamines, and antidepressants are all known for affecting energy. If your loved one has recently started or changed medications, check for any changes in their daily alertness or sleep habits.
Lifestyle Factors That Impact Energy
Not all senior fatigue comes from illness. Sometimes, lifestyle factors contribute just as much. These influences may be easy to overlook, especially if your loved one lives alone or is hesitant to share how they’re feeling.
Some common culprits include:
- Not drinking enough water during the day
- Lack of movement or regular physical activity
- Drinking too much caffeine, especially in the afternoon
- Alcohol use, which affects sleep and hydration
- Loneliness or lack of daily social interaction
Supporting healthy routines—like regular meals, movement, and social contact—can go a long way in restoring energy.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Some fatigue is part of the aging process. But if the fatigue is sudden, intense, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be time to involve a medical professional. If you notice any of these signs in a loved one, don’t ignore them:
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest or sleep
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Memory loss or increased confusion
- Trouble breathing or chest discomfort
- Loss of balance or increased falls
- Visible change in behavior or alertness
- New or worsening pain
- Change in sleep patterns lasting more than 2 weeks
These are all signs of developing medical conditions that may compromise your loved one’s quality of life. So, if they sound familiar, visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible. A proper diagnosis is key to giving your loved one the care they deserve.
How We Can Help at Paragon Village
Sometimes, sleep problems are challenging to manage at home. Fortunately, your family isn’t alone. The right environment can make a significant difference in your loved one’s quality of life, and here at Paragon Village Senior Living, we’re ready to help.
In our community, we’re proud to offer daily care to help your loved one preserve their quality of life. Between balanced meals, engaging programs every day, and a team of professional caregivers, your loved one will always have what they need. A safe, supportive environment awaits, so schedule a visit with us today!