One of the earliest signs that something may be wrong is a sudden change in weight. If an older adult loses or gains pounds quickly without explanation, it could signal that their body isn’t digesting food well or that they’ve lost interest in eating.
Sometimes, appetite fades not from illness, but from loneliness, fatigue, or emotional distress. Food may no longer taste the same when meals are eaten in silence.
2. Constant Fatigue or Weakness
If your loved one once moved about easily but now tires after a short walk or struggles with basic tasks, it may be more than ordinary aging. Persistent fatigue can be the body’s way of saying it needs help — perhaps due to heart or respiratory changes, or simply a reduced ability to recover energy.
At this stage, patience is key. Encourage rest, light stretching, and balanced meals. More importantly, offer emotional support rather than pressure. A kind companion by their side can often do as much good as a prescription.
Fatigue is not just physical — it’s emotional too. When an older person feels unneeded or unseen, their energy can fade faster than their strength.
