Managing Fatigue as We Grow

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As we get older, we might find that we don’t have the same energy that we used to. While it is perfectly natural for our pace to slow down a little, there is a difference between being tired after a busy day and feeling a persistent, heavy exhaustion that just won’t lift.

If you find yourself feeling drained even after a full night’s sleep, you aren’t alone. Managing fatigue is a common challenge for many of us as we grow, but it doesn’t have to stand in the way of a fulfilling, independent life.

What Exactly is Fatigue?

It is important to understand that fatigue is more than just feeling sleepy. Sleepiness is usually temporary and easily fixed with a nap or a coffee. Fatigue is a state of extreme, persistent tiredness or exhaustion, physical, mental, or emotional, that is not relieved by rest.

It can affect you in three main ways:

• Physical: Your body feels heavy, and even simple tasks like making a cup of tea can feel like a marathon.
• Mental: Often referred to as “brain fog,” this makes it harder to concentrate or find the right words.
• Emotional: Feeling overwhelmed or lacking the motivation to engage with hobbies and loved ones.

Essentially, fatigue significantly impairs your ability to function. It is your body’s way of saying it is running on empty, a signal that deserves our attention.

What Causes Fatigue?

Understanding the “why” is the first step toward effective fatigue management. Because our bodies are complex, fatigue is rarely caused by just one thing. Common contributors include:

• Lifestyle Factors: Poor sleep habits, a lack of regular movement, or a diet that doesn’t provide enough slow-release energy.
• Medical Conditions: Issues such as arthritis, thyroid imbalances, or sarcopenia can often manifest as exhaustion.
• Recent Illness: It is very common to experience lingering fatigue after infections, such as a heavy cold or flu.
• Mental Health: Anxiety or feeling low can be physically draining.
• Medication Side Effects: Some prescriptions can have side effects that make you feel drowsy or lethargic.

Does Old Age Cause Fatigue?

While it is natural for energy levels to dip slightly as we age, profound fatigue isn’t just an inevitable part of getting older. Often, what we attribute to old age is actually a result of underlying factors like changes in sleep patterns, reduced physical activity, or the side effects of medications.

Identifying the difference between general tiredness and fatigue is vital. If your tiredness feels constant and unshakeable, it could be a helpful factor in catching an underlying problem early.

Basic Fatigue Management

The good news is that there are many gentle, practical steps you can take to reclaim your energy. Managing fatigue often comes down to small, consistent lifestyle adjustments.

Regular, Manageable Exercise

It might sound counterintuitive to exercise when you feel tired, but gentle movement actually boosts your circulation and releases feel-good hormones. You don’t need to run a marathon, short walks or even chair-based exercises in your living room can make a world of difference to your stamina.

Balanced Diet

Food is fuel. Aim for a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruit and vegetables. These provide a steady stream of energy throughout the day, helping you avoid the sugar crashes that come from processed snacks. Keeping hydrated is also key, as even mild dehydration can make you feel sluggish.

Prioritise Mental Wellbeing

Our minds and bodies are closely linked. Taking time for a chat with a friend, practising mindfulness, or simply enjoying a hobby at home can reduce the mental strain that often contributes to chronic fatigue. Don’t be afraid to say no to things if you feel your social battery is running low, protecting your peace of mind is part of the process.

Manage Your Sleep Routine

Setting a regular wind-down time can help signal to your body that it’s time to rest. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, and keep your bedroom a calm, screen-free zone.

How Adjustable Beds can Help with Fatigue

When it comes to basic fatigue management, the quality of your rest is your most powerful tool. This is where the right environment can make a life-changing difference.

For many, the struggle with fatigue isn’t just about not sleeping enough, it’s about not sleeping well. Standard flat beds can sometimes lead to aches, pains, or breathing discomfort that keeps you in a state of light sleep, preventing you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of rest your body needs.

Adjustable beds support your independence and comfort at home by:

• Finding Your Perfect Position: Whether you need to elevate your feet to improve circulation or raise your head to help with breathing, an adjustable bed contours to your body’s needs.
• Reducing Physical Strain: Being able to raise the bed to a sitting position makes getting in and out much easier, saving your precious energy for the day ahead.
• Targeted Comfort: By relieving pressure on your joints, you can drift off faster and stay asleep longer, waking up feeling truly refreshed.

If fatigue is making your daily life feel like an uphill struggle, improving your sleep environment could be something to consider. If you’re interested in seeing how an adjustable bed can help you sleep better, why not try a free home trial? With no obligation to buy, you can test out an adjustable bed of your choice, with an expert on-hand to help, to see how you can combat fatigue with the comfort and support of mobility furniture.