Page 9 - March - 2025 ST
P. 9
The Impact of Fatigue on Daily Life Consider consulting a healthcare
Persistent fatigue impairs daily activities professional if fatigue:
and increases the risk of: • Persists for several weeks despite lifestyle
• Falls and injuries – Weakness and modifications.
lack of alertness raise the likelihood of • Interferes with daily activities and
accidents. quality of life.
• Loss of independence – Difficulty • Is accompanied by unexplained weight
performing daily tasks can lead to loss, breathlessness, or dizziness.
dependency. • Is linked to chronic conditions such
• Memory decline – Mental fatigue as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or heart
accelerates cognitive impairment. disease.
• Reduced immunity – Chronic exhaustion • Affects mood, leading to increased
weakens the immune system, increasing anxiety or depression.
infection risk. A specialist can conduct a comprehensive
Given the significant impact of fatigue evaluation, including lab tests, medication
on daily life, it is essential to recognize reviews, and lifestyle assessments, to
when it goes beyond normal tiredness and pinpoint the cause and suggest effective
signals a deeper health concern. Seeking management strategies.
timely medical advice can help identify Managing fatigue effectively requires
underlying causes and prevent further more than just a diagnosis. A holistic
complications, ensuring better overall well- approach—integrating medical care,
being. lifestyle adjustments, and mental well-
being strategies—can help seniors reclaim
their energy and enhance their overall
quality of life.
Holistic Strategies to Overcome Fatigue
in Seniors
1. Medical Management
• Routine Health Checkups – Regular
monitoring of blood sugar, thyroid
function, and vitamin levels.
• Medication Review – Identifying and
Why and When to Seek Medical Advice adjusting medications that may cause
Fatigue is a complex condition with fatigue.
multiple underlying causes, and a • Sleep Disorder Treatment – Addressing
specialist’s expertise can be invaluable conditions like sleep apnea for better rest.
in determining the right course of action. 2. Improving Sleep Quality
Many older adults hesitate to report their • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
fatigue, assuming it is a natural part of • Avoid screens before bedtime.
ageing. However, persistent fatigue can • Create a dark, quiet sleep environment.
indicate an underlying health issue that • Limit caffeine and heavy meals in the
requires medical attention. evening.
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #69 | MARCH 2025 9