hypoactivity

Hypoactivity refers to a state in which the level of activity is reduced relative to a normal baseline. The term can broadly describe diminished physical movement, slower cognitive processing, or reduced physiological responsiveness in humans and other organisms.

When used to describe motor function, hypoactivity means diminished spontaneous movement, slowed gait or bradykinesia, and slower reaction times. In cognitive or arousal terms, it may manifest as decreased alertness, attention, or information processing speed.

Causes are diverse and include sleep deprivation, fatigue, mood disorders such as depression, certain medications (sedatives, antipsychotics, opioids), neurological conditions (for example, Parkinsonian syndromes), hypothyroidism, metabolic disturbances, aging, and developmental or neuropsychiatric disorders.

Assessment typically combines clinical observation with patient history. Objective measures may include activity monitoring (actigraphy), performance on attention and processing-speed tests, or neuroimaging to study brain activity. Distinguishing persistent hypoactivity from temporary states requires consideration of context and baseline functioning.

Management is usually targeted at the underlying cause. Approaches may involve treating sleep disorders, adjusting medications, physical or occupational therapy to improve movement, and, in some conditions, pharmacologic agents to increase wakefulness or activity or to address symptoms.