How Senior Home Care Helps Your Loved One Manage Fatigue
August 9, 2023
Fatigue is something that affects almost all seniors at some point and can even be a side effect of medication. It can also be a symptom of many different physical or mental health conditions. Seniors who had Covid-19 may have fatigue as part of a set of Long Covid symptoms. No matter what the cause is seniors must find ways to manage fatigue because it can be very hard to get rid of.
Fatigue is more than just the tiredness that most people feel after a night without a good sleep, it's a chronic exhaustion. It makes it difficult for seniors to enjoy everyday activities, exercise, even get out of bed and get dressed. Senior home care is a big help for seniors that struggle with fatigue. Senior home care providers can keep the house clean, shop for food, run errands, and do other tasks that seniors with fatigue can’t do. Some things that seniors can do to manage fatigue are:
Prioritize Healthy Sleep
Most seniors aren’t getting enough sleep. Adequate and restful sleep is essential for managing fatigue. Seniors should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a consistent sleep schedule. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also improve sleep quality. Seniors should also remove TVs or other distracting elements from the bedroom.
Balanced Diet
Eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet is crucial for maintaining energy levels. Seniors should focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It can be difficult for seniors battling fatigue to cook healthy meals or shop for healthy food. Senior home care can help with those tasks, and with meal cleanup too.
Regular Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce fatigue and increase overall energy levels. But, seniors rarely want to exercise when they are so tired they are having trouble getting off the couch. Activities like walking, swimming, and gentle yoga can be beneficial and are not that physically taxing. Chair stretches and weight training are also good exercise for seniors fighting fatigue.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to fatigue. Seniors should practice stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or hobbies that promote relaxation. Seeking support from friends, family, or a counselor can also help manage stress.
Pace Activities
Seniors should learn to pace their activities and avoid overexertion. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable segments and taking breaks as needed can prevent excessive fatigue.
Take Daily Naps
Naps are essential for seniors with fatigue. Taking short naps during the day can be rejuvenating. Short naps can also give seniors the energy they need to get through the rest of the day. But, naps shouldn’t be longer than 30 minutes at a time. If they are longer than that the nap might make nighttime sleep difficult.
Avoid Overstimulation
Overstimulation from bright lights, loud noises, or crowded environments can be draining for seniors. Creating a calm and peaceful living space can help manage fatigue and promote relaxation.
Manage Medications
Some medications can cause fatigue as a side effect. Seniors should discuss any concerns about fatigue with their healthcare provider and explore potential alternatives or adjustments to their medication regimen.
Check for Medical Conditions
Fatigue can be a symptom of various medical conditions, such as anemia, thyroid disorders, or sleep apnea. Seniors experiencing persistent fatigue should consult with their healthcare provider to rule out any underlying health issues.
If you or your loved one is looking for Senior Home Care in Aptos, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care.
Santa Clara County: (408) 979-9990 in
San Mateo County: (650) 353-9777
Santa Cruz County: (831) 480-3990