You’ve noticed your dad has a lack of energy lately. It’s starting to worry you, but you’re not sure if it’s simply his getting older. Should you worry about your dad’s tendency to nap a lot and not be active?
Look at His Prescription Medications
Does your dad have any health issues that require him to take medications? If so, it could be a side effect of his medications. Look for side effects like dizziness, nausea, tiredness, or sleepiness. These can affect his energy levels.
If it’s affecting his energy levels, talk to his doctors. There could be alternatives that work just as effectively, without as many side effects.
Check His Dietary Habits
Is your dad eating a lot of junk food? If he’s on a carb-heavy diet with little nutrients, it can make him feel sluggish after the carb crash happens. Try switching his diet to whole grains, lots of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy. Balance his meals and snacks so that he’s eating regularly and avoid sudden spikes and drops in his blood sugar levels.
Make Sure He’s Active
Of course, your dad shouldn’t be sitting around all day if he is mobile. So, make sure he’s taking breaks throughout the day and engaging in activities he enjoys. He could work in his garden, take a walk with the dog, or volunteer in his community. If he has reasons to stay engaged, he may not sit around and feel tired.
Talk to His Doctor
Schedule a doctor’s appointment if you’ve ruled out medications, lack of activity, or diet as reasons your dad suddenly is out of energy. Because there could be an underlying health issue causing his lack of energy.
Heart disease, cancer, anemia, the flu, a cold, COVID, and lung disease can obviously make your dad feel sleepy or out of breath. For that reason, the sooner he’s examined, the better it can be if something is wrong.
Have Home Care Aides Available to Help Him
If your dad is napping too much during the day, he may be the type of person who finds it hard to re-energize after an afternoon nap. Ensure he’s not sleeping too much during the day and enjoying regular activity. A home care specialist can help your dad with his daily tasks and ensure he has ample opportunities to go outside for fresh air.
The other benefit of home care is there’s someone to monitor him. If he seems particularly tired or lethargic, his home care aide can let you know and schedule an appointment with his doctor to check his medications or look for any health issues. Call a home care agency to learn more.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care in Gilbert, AZ, or anywhere in the East Valley, please contact the caring staff at Legacy Home Care.
Call (480) 777-0070
Legacy Home Care has been serving the valley since 2007. We are family owned and operated with over 75 caregivers. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as: Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans' Home Care program.
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