A common misconception with aging is that it’s natural to feel tired. Some older Americans believe that feeling tired and rundown comes with aging. Judith Graham, withKaiser Health News, observes that feeling tired is not “normal aging.” She interviewed Dr. Christopher Callahan, director of the Center for Aging Research at Indiana University’s School of Medicine, to get his opinion. He told her, “Fatigue, weakness and depression, among several other common concerns, aren’t to-be-expected consequences of growing older.”

It’s important to pay attention to body signals, as they may indicate that a medical evaluation is in order. The earlier health concerns are checked out, the better the outcome. The goal is to be in good health for a long time, and take advantage of available remedies to common problems. Here are some tips on maintaining optimum health.

If you’re experiencing fatigue (“I’m tired most of time, and I don’t have any energy.”): There is a real impact to “slowing down,” including social isolation and loss of independence. Health care providers can determine the root cause for the fatigue, e.g., blood pressure medications, infections, arthritis, underactive thyroids, alcohol use, and poor nutrition. Each cause can be treated, along with pushing yourself to move around more each day. In some cases, physical or occupational therapy will help individuals regain normal energy levels.

Appetite loss (“I’m losing weight, and I don’t feel hungry.”): Underlying causes could include the physical changes associated with aging (some vision, taste, and smell reduction – these all contribute to making food more appealing), dental problems, infections and illnesses, some medications (which can reduce taste and smell and sometimes cause nausea), constipation, and reduced saliva production. Treating these should add to an improved appetite, and individuals can also add spices to food to make them more appealing, share mealtimes with others, and adjust medications.

For more information, including suggestions for combating depression and feelings of weakness, readYou’re Not Just “Growing Old” If This Happens to You by Judith Graham, Kaiser Health News.