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What causes excessive sleepiness in the elderly?

Jun 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, excessive sleepiness in the elderly may be caused by changes in sleep habits, overexertion, anemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, or other reasons. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, engage in moderate exercise, follow a balanced diet, and maintain a positive mindset. Avoid staying in quiet, comfortable environments for prolonged periods and participate more in social activities.

Generally, excessive sleepiness in the elderly may be caused by changes in sleep patterns, overexertion, anemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and other factors. If experiencing discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Changes in Sleep Habits

With increasing age, sleep patterns in the elderly may change, with decreased quality of nighttime sleep and a tendency to wake up early, leading to daytime drowsiness. It is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule, engage in appropriate daytime activities, and avoid excessively long naps.

2. Overexertion

Excessive physical or mental activity may cause fatigue in the elderly. After overexertion, the body and brain require additional rest to recover, manifesting as excessive sleepiness. It is advisable to plan activities reasonably, avoid overexertion, and ensure adequate rest.

3. Anemia

Poor nutrition or chronic diseases may lead to anemia in the elderly, resulting in insufficient oxygen supply to body tissues and organs, causing weakness, fatigue, and drowsiness. Symptoms such as pallor and dizziness may also occur. Follow medical advice to use medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous fumarate granules, or polysaccharide iron complex capsules to alleviate symptoms.

4. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism may be caused by iodine deficiency or excess, or drug side effects, leading to reduced secretion of thyroid hormones. This may slow down the body's metabolism, causing fatigue and sleepiness, along with symptoms such as cold intolerance and weakness. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, or Xiao Jin Pills may be used for treatment.

5. Diabetes

Insufficient insulin secretion or functional defects may cause elevated blood glucose levels. Poor blood sugar control can lead to either hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, both of which can affect brain function, causing drowsiness, along with symptoms such as polydipsia, polyphagia, and polyuria. Under medical guidance, medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, glimepiride tablets, or acarbose tablets may be used for treatment.

Maintain a regular sleep schedule, engage in moderate exercise, eat a balanced diet, and maintain a positive mindset. Avoid staying in quiet and comfortable environments for prolonged periods; participate more in social activities to enrich daily life. If excessive sleepiness persists or is accompanied by other discomforts, seek professional help promptly.

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