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Burden of Fatigue in the Elderly cognitive exhaustion caused by stress,
Fatigue is often mistaken as a natural prolonged mental exertion, or lack of rest.
part of ageing, yet it significantly reduces 3. Emotional Fatigue – Feelings of
independence and increases health risks sadness, irritability, or lack of motivation
for millions of seniors. While common due to chronic stress, loneliness, or
worldwide, its causes and impact vary unresolved grief, often leading to social
across regions due to differences in withdrawal.
lifestyle, healthcare access, and socio- Recognising the different types of fatigue
economic factors. in seniors is the first step toward effective
Globally, 40-60% of older adults management. However, understanding
experience fatigue, with prevalence why fatigue occurs is equally important.
increasing after 70, particularly among Various underlying factors—ranging from
women and those with chronic illnesses. medical conditions to lifestyle choices—can
Developed countries benefit from better contribute to persistent tiredness in older
healthcare, early diagnosis, and support adults. Identifying these causes can help in
systems, while in India, fatigue is more developing targeted strategies to improve
widespread due to undiagnosed conditions, energy levels and overall well-being.
malnutrition, and limited geriatric care.
Socioeconomic disparities and cultural
expectations further contribute to
stress, while mental health issues, often
stigmatised, remain largely unaddressed.
Addressing these challenges requires
improved healthcare access, awareness,
and holistic management strategies.
Understanding the global and regional
variations in elderly fatigue provides
valuable insight into its widespread Common Causes of Fatigue in Older
impact. However, fatigue is not a one-size- Adults
fits-all condition—it manifests in different Fatigue in seniors often results from
forms, each affecting seniors in unique a combination of medical conditions,
ways. By identifying these distinct types, lifestyle factors, and emotional well-
we can take a more targeted approach to being. Identifying and addressing these
managing fatigue and improving overall underlying causes can significantly
well-being. improve energy levels.
1. Underlying Medical Conditions
Types of Fatigue in Seniors Chronic illnesses frequently contribute to
1. Physical Fatigue – A decline in strength fatigue, including:
and endurance, making daily activities • Diabetes – Blood sugar fluctuations
exhausting. It often results from chronic cause persistent tiredness.
illness or inactivity. • Heart Disease – Reduced circulation
2. Mental Fatigue – Difficulty leads to exhaustion.
concentrating, memory lapses, and • Chronic Kidney Disease – Toxin
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #69 | MARCH 2025 7
