Last week I noticed my normally unstoppable husband moving around the kitchen like he’d been hit by a bus.
No spark.
No jokes.
No salsa dancing while unloading the dishwasher.
When I asked what was wrong, he shrugged:
“I’m fine. It’s just stress.”
(Big shock – it isn’t always “just stress.”)
He skipped projects he loves. Fell asleep at 8 p.m. Forgot things he normally wouldn’t.
And because I’m me, I didn’t see a man “losing his mojo.”
I saw a husband who deserved to feel like himself again.
This isn’t about masculinity. It’s about health.
What Matters Most About Low Testosterone
• Testosterone naturally declines about 1–2% per year starting in the mid-30s.
• Roughly 8–15% of men in their 50s and 60s have clinically low levels.
• Symptoms may include low sex drive, fatigue, mood shifts and increased body fat.
• Stress, poor sleep, weight gain and chronic illness often play a role.
• Only a properly timed blood test can confirm low testosterone.
In this article we’ll go over some of what I found to help my husband and hopefully you’ll find it useful too.
Quick reminder that I am NOT a doctor and this does not substitute for medical treatment (Our lawyers appreciate me mentioning that).
With that in mind, lets dive into what “Low T” really means, signs there might be a need for professional help, and some simple tips that can hopefully help you or the one you love…
What “Low T” Actually Means
Testosterone supports muscle mass, energy and libido.
It naturally declines with age. That part is normal.
Most doctors consider total testosterone below roughly 275–300 ng/dL to be low. Testing should be done in the morning — and repeated — because levels fluctuate.
But low testosterone isn’t the only explanation for feeling “off.”
Depression, thyroid issues, sleep apnea, medication side effects and chronic stress can cause nearly identical symptoms.
That’s why guessing — or buying late-night “vitality” supplements — isn’t a solution.
A proper evaluation from your doctor is the responsible first step.
(This article is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical care.)
Signs It’s Time to Talk
Symptoms generally fall into two categories.
Sexual Signs
• Reduced sex drive
• Weaker or less frequent erections
• Reduced fertility
Nonsexual Signs
• Persistent fatigue
• Low mood or irritability
• Brain fog
• Increased belly fat
• Loss of muscle
• Sleep problems
Many of these overlap with stress, alcohol use, poor diet and lack of exercise — all of which can also lower testosterone.
If the pattern feels persistent rather than temporary, it’s worth bringing up with your provider.
This is about health maintenance — not ego.
Tip #1 – It’s Common, ot a Character Flaw
Up to 15% of men in their 50s and 60s have low testosterone.
Hormones change. Bodies change.
Addressing it doesn’t make you “less of a man.”
It makes you proactive.
Start with an honest conversation — with your partner and your doctor.
Humor helps:
“I survived dial-up internet. I can handle this.”
Tip #2 – Test, Don’t Guess
Diagnosis requires a morning blood test between 7–10 a.m.
If levels are low, they should be repeated to confirm.
Your provider may also screen for:
• Thyroid disorders
• Type 2 diabetes
• Depression
• Sleep apnea
Avoid over-the-counter “T boosters.” Without lab work, you’re guessing — and some supplements can disrupt liver function or hormone balance.
Evidence beats marketing every time.
Tip #3 – Move, Lift, Sleep
You don’t need to become a bodybuilder.
But improving body composition can meaningfully improve testosterone.
Prioritize:
• Resistance training
• Walking or cycling
• 7–9 hours of quality sleep
Untreated sleep apnea alone can suppress testosterone.
Diet matters too:
• Healthy fats
• Lean protein
• Whole foods
• Less alcohol and excess sugar
Small changes compound.
Tip #4 – Think Bigger Than Hormones
Energy after 50 isn’t just hormonal.
It’s metabolic. Mental. Emotional.
Regular exercise preserves muscle and bone.
Hydration prevents sluggishness.
Mental stimulation maintains drive.
Limit heavy alcohol use. Protect sleep. Manage stress.
And if mood shifts persist, speak to a mental health professional.
Hormones matter — but so does everything else.
Tip #5 – Consider Treatment Carefully
If repeated testing confirms low testosterone and symptoms persist, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be discussed.
Options include injections, gels or patches.
Many men notice improved energy and mood within weeks. Body composition changes take longer.
But TRT is not appropriate for everyone.
Men with prostate cancer, severe sleep apnea, uncontrolled heart failure or elevated red blood cell counts may not be candidates.
It can also reduce fertility.
TRT requires medical supervision and ongoing monitoring.
This is a decision made thoughtfully — not impulsively.
When to Seek Help
If you experience persistent depression, anxiety, major fatigue or sexual changes, speak with your healthcare provider.
If symptoms feel overwhelming or you’re ever in crisis, call 988 (U.S.) for immediate support.
You deserve to feel like yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Low Testosterone After 50
How do I know if my testosterone is low?
Only blood testing can confirm it.
Symptoms like low libido, fatigue, mood changes and muscle loss are clues — but not proof.
Your provider will order a properly timed morning test and likely repeat it.
Can exercise improve testosterone?
Yes.
Weight loss, resistance training and proper sleep can significantly improve levels in many men.
Lifestyle changes are often the first line of intervention.
Is testosterone therapy safe after 50?
It can be safe and effective when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.
It is not a DIY solution and is not appropriate for every man.
Risks and benefits should be discussed individually.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment decisions related to hormone health.
