Keep Falling Asleep at Work? 5 Health Signs for Women 65+

If you keep falling asleep at work, you're not lazy, unmotivated, or "just getting older." For women over 65, daytime sleepiness is often a signal from the body that something deeper may be going on. While occasional fatigue happens to everyone, repeatedly nodding off during meetings, while reading, or even while sitting quietly deserves attention.

This article explains five common health signs linked to excessive daytime sleepiness in women 65+, using credible medical knowledge and clear, everyday language. The goal is not to alarm you—but to help you recognize when it's time to look closer and speak to a doctor.

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Why This Matters More After 65

As women age, changes in hormones, sleep patterns, metabolism, and medication use can all affect energy levels. Research from organizations such as the National Institute on Aging, CDC, and American Academy of Sleep Medicine shows that persistent daytime sleepiness is not a normal part of aging—especially when it interferes with daily life or work.

If you keep falling asleep at work, it may be your body's way of asking for help.

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1. Poor-Quality Sleep (Even If You're "Sleeping Enough")

Many women assume that if they spend 7–9 hours in bed, sleep can't be the problem. But sleep quality matters just as much as sleep length.

You may be getting enough hours but still experiencing:

• Frequent nighttime awakenings
• Light, unrefreshing sleep
• Early morning waking with no ability to fall back asleep

Common causes in women 65+ include:

• Changes in circadian rhythm (your internal clock)
• Pain from arthritis or other chronic conditions
• Increased nighttime urination
• Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, which often goes undiagnosed in women

If you keep falling asleep at work despite "sleeping all night," this is a major clue that your sleep isn't restorative.

Helpful step: Consider using a free symptom checker for Sleep Apnea Syndrome to see if your symptoms align with this common but often overlooked condition—it only takes a few minutes and can help guide your conversation with your doctor.

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2. Sleep Apnea (Often Missed in Older Women)

Sleep apnea is one of the most underdiagnosed causes of daytime sleepiness in women over 65.

Unlike the classic image of loud snoring men, women may experience:

• Quiet breathing interruptions
• Waking with headaches
• Dry mouth or sore throat
• Mood changes or brain fog
• Daytime fatigue without obvious snoring

With sleep apnea, breathing repeatedly slows or stops during sleep, reducing oxygen to the brain. Over time, this can contribute to:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Memory problems
• Increased risk of falls

If you keep falling asleep at work, especially during calm or seated activities, sleep apnea should be ruled out.

Important: Untreated sleep apnea can be serious. Speak to a doctor promptly if you suspect it.

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3. Medication Side Effects and Interactions

Women over 65 are more likely to take multiple medications, and daytime drowsiness is a common side effect.

Medications that may cause sleepiness include:

• Blood pressure drugs
• Anxiety or depression medications
• Pain relievers (including some over-the-counter options)
• Allergy medications
• Sleep aids (ironically)

Even if you've taken a medication for years, your body's ability to process it can change with age.

Signs medication may be involved:

• Sleepiness started after a dose change
• You feel groggy most of the day
• Brain fog or slowed thinking
• Increased risk of dozing off unintentionally

If you keep falling asleep at work, ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all medications and supplements together. Sometimes small adjustments make a big difference.

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4. Low Iron, Vitamin B12, or Thyroid Problems

Nutrient deficiencies and hormonal imbalances are common and treatable causes of fatigue in older women.

Conditions to consider:

• Iron deficiency anemia – can reduce oxygen delivery to tissues
• Vitamin B12 deficiency – affects nerves, energy, and cognition
• Hypothyroidism – slows metabolism and increases fatigue

Possible signs include:

• Weakness or heaviness in the body
• Cold sensitivity
• Pale skin
• Memory lapses
• Feeling "wiped out" despite rest

These conditions are diagnosed through simple blood tests. If you keep falling asleep at work and haven't had labs checked recently, it's reasonable to ask.

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5. Depression, Stress, or Cognitive Changes

Mental and emotional health strongly affects sleep and energy—especially later in life.

In women 65+, depression may look different than expected. Instead of sadness, it may show up as:

• Fatigue or low motivation
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loss of interest in daily activities

Early cognitive changes can also increase mental fatigue, making the brain work harder and leading to daytime sleepiness.

If you keep falling asleep at work and also notice mood changes, memory issues, or withdrawal from activities, don't ignore it. These concerns deserve thoughtful medical evaluation.

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When Falling Asleep at Work Becomes a Safety Issue

Daytime sleepiness isn't just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. It increases the risk of:

• Workplace accidents
• Falls
• Driving incidents
• Medication errors

If you ever feel close to falling asleep while driving or during important tasks, speak to a doctor immediately. This can be life-threatening and should not wait.

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What You Can Do Next

If you keep falling asleep at work, consider these steps:

• Track your sleep for 1–2 weeks (bedtime, wake time, awakenings)
• Review medications with a healthcare professional
• Ask about blood tests for anemia, B12, and thyroid function
• Take Ubie's free AI-powered Sleep Apnea Syndrome symptom checker to see if your symptoms may be related to this treatable condition
• Speak to a doctor about any ongoing or worsening symptoms

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The Bottom Line

For women 65+, falling asleep at work is not something to brush off. It's often a meaningful health signal—and many causes are treatable once identified.

You don't need to panic, but you do need to pay attention. Trust your body, gather information, and speak to a doctor about anything that could be serious or life-threatening. Getting answers can lead to better sleep, safer days, and a higher quality of life.