Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is disrupted during sleep. It can lead to various health problems and an overall decrease in quality of life. And many elderly people can develop it. To ensure that they get the rest they need each night, it’s essential that they learn to manage this condition, especially if they live alone. Take a look at how seniors who live alone can better manage symptoms of sleep apnea.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common disorder in which the individual experiences pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while they rest. This phenomenon can occur many times during the night and can last anywhere from 10 seconds to minutes. It stops when an individual wakes up. As a result, many people remain unaware of their symptoms, especially if they live alone.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include snoring, pauses in breathing during sleep, excessive daytime fatigue, and insomnia. Additionally, sufferers can experience headaches upon waking, morning confusion or memory lapses, and dry throat when they wake up. If a senior experiences any combination of these symptoms on a regular basis, it's time to consult with their doctor about receiving testing for sleep apnea.
Managing Sleep Apnea for Seniors Living Alone
Since sleep apnea is a serious condition and can be difficult to manage for seniors living alone, it's important to develop habits that help prevent symptoms.
Establish a Sleep Schedule
One of the best things a senior who lives alone can do to manage sleep apnea is to develop and adhere to a regular sleep schedule. This means going to bed and waking up at relatively consistent times every day and avoiding staying up late or taking long naps throughout the day. A good sleep schedule may also include having a solid bedtime routine, including shutting off the television and using strategies that help them wind down before bed.
Avoid Stimulants Before Bed
Seniors should also avoid consuming stimulants, such as caffeine or nicotine, close to bedtime. These can interfere with their ability to get a full night of restful sleep and exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity contributes to the risk of developing sleep apnea. Being overweight can narrow the airways, making it difficult for people to get enough oxygen at night. By maintaining a healthy weight, seniors who live alone can reduce their risk of developing sleep apnea symptoms.
Monitor Sleep Patterns
Seniors living alone should keep track of their sleep patterns, especially if they notice any problems. For example, they might note symptoms like waking regularly or feeling groggy even after a supposed good night's rest. Maintaining a regular log of these observations can help them to recognize changes in their sleep habits and notice if the problem is getting worse over time.
Check-in Regularly with a Doctor
Finally, it's important for seniors living alone to check in with their doctor regularly about any changes in sleep patterns. Sleep apnea can be a serious issue, and consulting a medical professional can help diagnose the exact cause of any irregularities.
Get Help for Seniors Living Alone
Sleep apnea can be a serious issue. In many cases, seniors who live alone may need additional support at night, especially if they worry about complications of other health disorders or problems. At Senior Helpers Aurora-Geneva, we provide overnight care for seniors in Geneva, Aurora, Plainfield, and Oswego, helping them improve their overall health and comfort. Contact us today to learn more about our services.