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A high level of energy is helpful for older adults, especially when they chase after the grandkids or manage household tasks. Aging does not automatically sentence seniors to a life of low-energy. Rather, adults over 60 can take these manageable steps to increase their energy levels.
When exhaustion strikes, it’s important to address it. Neglecting fatigue is never advised, since it can signal that some part of overall health is amiss. Rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, is oftentimes accompanied by fatigue. Cancer and its treatments also cause fatigue.
Several other medical conditions are responsible for the onset of fatigue in elderly individuals. Recovering from a major surgery, suffering from anemia, experiencing a recent stroke, and living with Parkinson’s disease are associated with fatigue. Chronic diseases, like diabetes, also cause tiredness.
Besides speaking with a doctor about ailments that might be causing fatigue, older adults can make modifications to their lifestyle and boost their energy levels. Choosing healthy foods, getting adequate exercise, increasing vitamin intake, and checking medications make a difference.
How do healthy food choices contribute to high energy?
Certain foods are known to boost energy in older adults. Fuel the body with nutritious foods that are not loaded with calories. Balanced meals consist of lean protein, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Healthy meals give the aging body the vitamins and minerals it needs.
Complex carbs are the right type of carbohydrate, as they deliver energy. Try whole-grain cereals and oatmeal to feel full and energized. Fish, like tuna, salmon, and mackerel boost energy. Iron-rich foods counter anemia, a condition that causes low energy. Stay hydrated, too.
Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a high amount of energy. The aging body is unable to absorb this vitamin from foods efficiently, making it necessary to rely on a vitamin supplement. Seniors are still advised to consume nondairy milks, like soy and almond, which are fortified with vitamin B12.
How does regular exercise boost energy?
Exercising regularly boosts energy levels in older adults. Moving even a few minutes each day prevents a dip in energy levels. Start the day with a leisurely walk. An early morning stroll is energizing; and the sunshine helps regulate the circadian rhythm, allowing for a better night’s rest.
Physical activities that enhance endurance and energy in aging people include swimming, dancing, and biking. Yoga and tai chi are exercises that combine breath and movement. Consider adding variety to an exercise schedule by performing different activities on alternate days.
It is important that seniors avoid too little or too much exercise—both of which can deplete energy levels. Overdoing exercise without getting proper rest can lead to stress and the resulting fatigue. Aim to exercise for 150 minutes per week (30 minutes per day, 5 days per week).
How do periodic reviews of medications increase energy?
Certain medications are linked with fatigue. Antidepressants, antihistamines, and drugs to treat nausea and pain are examples. High blood pressure medicines can also sap energy levels. Seniors who wish to feel energized are encouraged to review their medications with a doctor every 3-6 months.
Seniors should bring a list of their prescription medications to a doctor’s appointment and ask the primary care physician if each one is still needed. Sometimes, lowering the dose of a drug can make a difference in energy levels. Alternatives to certain medicines may also be an option.
How does relieving emotional exhaustion improve energy?
Depression, anxiety and grief over the loss of friends or family can lead to emotional exhaustion. Stress and financial problems can cause fatigue, as well. Any of these emotional issues can disrupt sleep; and inadequate nighttime rest contributes to low energy levels.
Seniors who engage in a yoga practice, try meditation or deep breathing, and stretch regularly combat their emotional stresses and anxieties. Staying physically active improves sleep but has the added benefits of boosting mood, reducing depression, and enhancing overall well-being.
Visiting a therapist for counseling can ease emotional anguish and anxiety. A medical professional may prescribe medications for relieving depressive symptoms. Receiving the right treatments for mental health issues can alleviate them and help aging individuals feel more rested and energized.
Boredom can also trigger low energy. Retirees easily feel lost about how to purposefully spend their time. But by engaging socially, like volunteering in the community or participating in events at the senior center, older adults benefit from a greater level of energy.
How does in-home support increase energy?
Seniors who feel swamped with everyday household chores may start to notice their energy levels drop. Rather than attempt to handle daily life alone, ask for help from friends, family, or professional caregivers. A pair of helping hands gets tasks done faster and adds an element of fun.
Adults over the age of 60 can maintain their vigor and vibrancy for many more years. The key is to eat balanced meals, exercise, unload emotional burdens, volunteer, and receive in-home support from Assisting Hands Home Care. Our elder care agency prioritizes the holistic health of seniors.
We provide a wide range of non-medical home health care services, designed to support the everyday physical, emotional, and social health of older adults in Buffalo Grove, IL | Deerfield, IL | Lake Zurich, IL | Lake Forest, IL | Lincolnshire, IL | Mundelein, IL | Highland Park, IL | Libertyville, IL | Round Lake Beach, IL , Vernon Hills, IL and the surrounding areas. Professional caregivers provide assistance with personal hygiene tasks, like bathing and dressing, as well as light housekeeping and grocery shopping.
Additional responsibilities include preparing nutritious meals, which can revitalize the energy levels of our care recipients. We support their social health by providing transportation to the senior center and their physical health by driving them to senior yoga classes or the doctor’s office.
Assisting Hands Home Care providers are also excellent companions. We socialize with aging care recipients by initiating pleasant conversations, playing card games, joining them in recreational activities, or taking them on outings. Our companionship deters loneliness and instead energizes them.
Families who are considering home care for an aging loved one, are encouraged to schedule an in-home consultation with Assisting Hands Home Care. We’ll assess care needs and develop a flexible, customized senior home care plan that will enhance their energy levels and daily life. Call us today at (224) 268-9068.
