Are you starting to take naps in the afternoon? Well you might be experiencing senior fatigue. While it is normal to feel tired after a long day at work or after exercising, some people may experience tiredness more frequently than others, especially if you’re over 50. As we age, our bodies undergo various changes that can affect our energy levels. Today, we will explore the age at which people typically start feeling tired, whether sleep needs change as we get older, and why senior fatigue happens.
At What Age Do You Start Feeling Tired?
What are do you start feeling tired and sleepy? When do you start sleeping in more often or taking an hour nap in the afternoon? Well, this depends on a person’s age, health, fitness level and lifestyle. Generally, the more years that pass, the more you’ll value your beauty sleep, and its true senior fatigue is a real thing. However, most people start experiencing a decline in their energy levels by the time they reach their mid-thirties. And this decline in energy levels can be attributed to various factors, including changes in metabolism, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress.
It is worth noting that feeling tired is not always a sign of getting older. There may be underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnoea, thyroid disorders, anaemia, or depression that can cause fatigue, regardless of age. Therefore, if you are experiencing persistent tiredness or fatigue, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical issues. But if you are in your 40s/50s or older, chances are your body is feeling the strain of life more than it used to.
Do You Need More Sleep As You Get Older?
Many people believe that as they age, they require less shut eye. But, this is not entirely true. While the hours of sleep you need at night may vary depending on individual factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and medical conditions, most adults require around 7-9 hours of sleep per night, regardless of age. But, if you’re rising early, it might be due to disrupted sleep. As you get older, you might find yourself waking up at night more often to use the bathroom. This is generally a normal sign of getting older, but it can contribute to senior fatigue. Then you might try to remedy this by drinking more coffee or tea during the day. And so, a cycle is formed, which is hard to break.
If you are suffering from a chronic condition such as arthritis, sleeping more often can actually be beneficial as it helps give your body time to rest and repair itself. Don’t feel guilty for going to bed early, the best thing you can do is listen to your body.
Although it’s important to note that even though sleep needs may remain the same, some people may find it more challenging to get enough sleep due to various factors such as medications, medical conditions, and lifestyle changes. Therefore, it is essential to prioritise good sleep hygiene practices such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a sleep-conducive environment to ensure adequate sleep.
Why Does Senior Fatigue Happen?
Senior fatigue is a common experience that affects the majority of older adults. It is characterised by a persistent feeling of tiredness, low energy levels, and a general lack of motivation or drive. While the causes of senior fatigue may vary, it is typically associated with various age-related changes that affect the body's ability to function optimally.
One of the main causes of senior fatigue is a decline in metabolism. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at metabolising nutrients, leading to a decline in energy levels. Additionally, hormonal changes, such as a decline in testosterone levels in men and a decline in estrogen levels in women, can also contribute to senior fatigue.
Other factors such as chronic medical conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes, which can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty sleeping can leave you feeling sluggish in the morning too. Furthermore, medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and sedatives, can also cause drowsiness which can make bedtime seem hard to resist.
When Sleeping Might Be A Problem
While sleep disturbances are common among seniors, ongoing problems getting to sleep or staying asleep may indicate an underlying sleep disorder. Sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnoea, and restless leg syndrome can cause daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
If you are experiencing persistent sleep problems, it’s time to speak to a healthcare provider. They will be able to rule out any worrying underling conditions and help you to improve the quality of sleep you’re getting. They may recommend spending more time outside to enjoy fresh air, taking regular gentle exercise or switching medication.
So to answer the question, do you need more sleep as you get older, the answer depends on you. But if you’re starting to notice that life is taking it out of you, then perhaps it’s time to take things easier and relax. By investing in self-care and relaxation you can enjoy a more peaceful, relaxing and enjoyable way of life that might not be as draining as a stressful and busy schedule.
