Although it’s sometimes written off as lacking energy, fatigue is a symptom that can swiftly become incapacitating. Everyone experiences fatigue differently, and many possible explanations exist. Sometimes the cause is simple, such as inadequate sleep. No matter the reason, seniors should be cognizant of chronic fatigue and talk with their medical team if fatigue begins to impact day-to-day tasks. Here are some things to consider about chronic fatigue, and how elder care providers can help with this condition.
Medical Issues That Might Cause Increased Fatigue
Chronic medical issues might be the root of increased fatigue in seniors. If this is the case, medical professionals can provide suggestions to seniors and their loved ones for working through the fatigue in a way that doesn’t impact their daily life. While these suggestions might not work for everyone, it is worth researching ways to improve daily living. Some of the most common issues that cause fatigue are listed below.
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Sleep Apnea
- Thyroid disease
It’s important to note that certain medications, or a combination of medications, can also increase fatigue. Talk with your seniors doctor if their elder care providers or loved ones notice increased fatigue. If chronic fatigue results from an undiagnosed condition, it’s best to discover the root of the problem sooner rather than later.
Dehydration and Poor Diet Might Also Cause Chronic Fatigue
Seniors need to be mindful of their diet and the amount of water they consume. During aging, the amount of water in seniors’ bodies decreases, making their fluid intake even more important than it was before. A lack of hydration can cause one to feel weak and tired.
A poor diet that does not provide adequate nutrients can also increase seniors’ fatigue. Elder care professionals in the home can assist in monitoring seniors’ food and water habits by giving gentle reminders. Home care members may also help with cooking or meal planning to ensure seniors get the proper nutrients for optimum health and wellness.
Anemia Might Be the Cause of Increased Fatigue
Professionals might test seniors for anemia if the medical issues listed above are ruled out. Anemia affects 17% of seniors 65 and older. Anemia can make seniors feel dizzy, tired, and weak. These factors can increase the risk of falls and injuries in seniors, so if anemia is suspected, it’s important to monitor seniors for stability. The most common cause of anemia is a chronic disease or iron deficiency. A medical professional can provide more information about anemia and steps to handle the issue if a diagnosis is made.
Chronic Fatigue Might Also Be Caused by Lifestyle Choices
The routine and habits of seniors also contribute to chronic fatigue. Seniors need to get a good night’s sleep, minimize caffeine intake, and be active for at least 30 minutes daily. This can be difficult for seniors with sleeping issues and sedentary lifestyles.
With gentle coaxing and encouragement, elder care providers can motivate seniors to increase their physical activity by walking around the neighborhood, planning a light workout together, or transporting them to a group fitness class. They can also create a schedule for seniors that calls for less downtime and a consistent sleeping routine.
Helping seniors handle chronic fatigue is just one of the ways that elder care professionals can help. The increased socialization and the motivation to move more and eat healthily will also benefit other areas of seniors’ lives.
Source:
https://www.dispatchhealth.com/blog/dehydration-a-serious-health-risk-for-aging-adults/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4077071/
If you are considering elder care in Houston, TX for an aging loved one, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
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