WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Increased sleep in seniors is often due to pain, organ dysfunction, hypothyroidism, anemia, or cognitive decline.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
• Seasonal change
• Depression or boredom
MEDICAL
• Chronic pain
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Anemia
• Hypothyroidism
• Cognitive decline
• Chronic inflammation
EMERGENCY
• Unable to wake normally
• Sleepiness + vomiting
• Sleepiness + pale gums
RED FLAGS
• Sudden change in sleep pattern
• Difficulty waking
If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Improve comfort & bedding
• Gently increase exercise
• Track sleep patterns
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• CBC
• Thyroid levels
• Kidney and liver values
• Pain evaluation
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Pain
• Organ disease
• Endocrine disease
• Cognitive dysfunction
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Changes in sleep patterns often precede cognitive decline and organ deterioration, both longevity-limiting.