7 Common Causes of Fatigue in the Elderly

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Prevent Fatigue in Elders in Toronto, ON

Seniors often dismiss fatigue as simply a side effect of aging, but mental and physical fatigue should never be ignored. Fatigue tends to make seniors feel like they lack energy or interest, and it can be a sign that something else is wrong. These seven conditions can often be the underlying cause of fatigue among the elderly. 

1. Sleep Disorders

One of the most basic causes of fatigue is insomnia, which makes it difficult for seniors to fall asleep or stay asleep. Even if a senior thinks he or she is getting enough sleep each night, fatigue can be a sign that something is affecting the quality of sleep. Seniors may need to get a sleep study done to see if they have sleep apnea or acid reflux.

Professional caregivers can help seniors exercise, stave off fatigue, manage daily tasks, and lead healthier lives. Although it may be challenging to find a reliable, highly rated home care company, Toronto, ON, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This condition is particularly common among seniors who have smoked for many years. Repetitive damage to the lung tissue makes it harder for the lungs to oxygenate the blood. Without enough oxygen, seniors with COPD tend to be short of breath and feel constantly tired. 

3. Heart Disease

General feelings of fatigue often occur because a senior is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood circulated throughout the body. Even milder issues like narrowed arteries or slightly prolapsed valves can be enough to cause fatigue. This type of weariness often occurs alongside irregular heartbeats, short breaths, or chest pain, and it should never be ignored.

4. Depression

Seniors have a high risk for depression. Though depression is often associated with sadness, it can sometimes lead to fatigue and exhaustion. If there is no physical cause for the fatigue, it may be time to speak to a therapist.

Regular socialization can help seniors keep depression at bay. For families living in Toronto, Ontario, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.  

5. Arthritis

Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause fatigue in multiple ways. The inflammation associated with arthritis puts a lot of stress on the body, causing feelings of fatigue. Seniors also end up with arthritis-related fatigue because the chronic pain and insomnia make it more difficult for them to rest.

6. Anemia

Anemia occurs when a person does not have enough red blood cells. It is quite common among seniors, and its symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, and dizziness. Anemia in aging adults is most commonly caused by iron, folate, and B12 deficiencies, so it is important to make sure they eat nutritious meals.

7. Kidney Disorders

The lungs and heart are not the only organs that cause fatigue. Seniors living with kidney disorders tend to feel fatigued and confused because the body is not properly filtering out water and toxins. Kidney disorders include infections, cysts, and kidney failure, and they all require immediate medical attention.

Seniors are susceptible to a variety of medical conditions that can cause fatigue and other health issues. Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Toronto, Ontario, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place. If your loved one needs high-quality in-home care, call Home Care Assistance at (416) 488-8777 today.

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