Testosterone is the male sex hormone. "T" hormone levels are essential for normal male sexual development & male functions. "T" levels generally decrease with age, so older men tend to have low blood "T" levels (less than 300 nanograms per deciliter).
Low T symptoms in men include fatigue, reduced lean muscle mass, erectile dysfunction, loss of or low sexual drive, and depression. Non-specific symptoms can include poor memory, reduced energy levels, endurance & physical strength, and even difficulty finding words to say.
Possible Causes in Males: Normal aging, obesity, testicular injury, or infection is another cause. Some medications, including certain statins, antidepressants, high blood pressure beta blockers, chemotherapy, steroids, and opioids, can affect the pituitary gland & hypothalamus.
Low T with symptoms in women includes low sex drive & libido. Other symptoms like fatigue, lack of concentration, muscle weakness, thinning hair, and reduced vaginal lubrication can occur. Women can also be misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety. Low T can also play a crucial role in bone growth & strength. Deficiency in women requires a test for androgen deficiency, typically given by a doctor or endocrinologist.
Possible Causes in women: Menopause, ovaries surgically removed or damaged from chemotherapy, and birth control pills.
Foods to help increase Testosterone: Eggs, fatty fish rich in Vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, dark leafy greens, avocados, berries, cherries, and shellfish.
As always, we urge you to visit your doctor & consult openly about any concerns, as everyone is different.
By Sharon Groves
Sharon Groves covers health, wellness, and lifestyle topics for the ARA newsletter, helping readers make informed decisions about their wellbeing in retirement.
You Might Also Like
- Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: No Prescription Required
Medicare & Healthcare · Sharon Groves - Jeepers Creepers: Protecting Your Eyes in Retirement
Medicare & Healthcare · Sharon Groves - Chronic Inflammation: The Hidden Health Risk Affecting Retirees
Medicare & Healthcare · Sharon Groves
Easy Eddie's Take
Sharon brings up something that affects a lot of folks as they get older, but here's what I want you to know about Low T and Medicare coverage in 2026. Most people are surprised when they learn that Medicare Part B typically covers testosterone testing when your doctor orders it for symptoms like the ones Sharon mentioned. The key is having those symptoms documented by your healthcare provider.
If you're wondering "does Medicare cover testosterone replacement therapy," the answer depends on your specific situation. Medicare Part B may cover testosterone treatments when medically necessary, but you'll want to check with your Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare Supplement insurance if you have one, since coverage can vary. Your out-of-pocket costs will depend on whether you've met your annual deductible, which is $240 for Medicare Part B in 2026.
The important thing is not to ignore symptoms like chronic fatigue or memory issues, thinking they're just "normal aging." A simple blood test can give you and your doctor real answers, and that peace of mind is worth having.