Sleep apnea is a common disorder among seniors and can lead to serious risks left untreated. The main sign of sleep apnea is snoring and pausing during the night while sleeping, but other dangers such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and depression may develop if it goes unchecked. There are many ways to manage sleep apnea for seniors living alone to get a restful night's sleep and feel safer in their homes.
Senior Helpers Greenville offers these tips for senior adults to manage their sleep apnea at home while maintaining their comfort and security.
Establish a Sleep Routine
It is vital to develop and maintain an adequate sleep routine. Going to bed and waking up at the same time daily can help create a consistent sleeping pattern, which may help improve sleep apnea symptoms. Seniors can also benefit from finding ways to relax before their regular bedtime so that they spend less time tossing and turning in their beds.
Use a Humidifier
Using a humidifier in the bedroom while sleeping may also help improve sleep apnea symptoms. Proper humidity will affect the respiratory airways and make them less blocked and stuffy, leading to better asleep breathing.
Monitor Sleeping Habits
Seniors living alone should be conscious of their sleeping habits and monitor the intensity of their snoring to catch any worsening sleep apnea symptoms. If they think they are more prone to episodes while asleep, it would be best for them to visit a physician and discuss medications or lifestyle changes that can help manage the disorder.
Consult a Doctor if Needed
It is best to consult a healthcare provider if snoring becomes too loud and frequent. A doctor may propose medical treatments such as continuous positive airflow therapy or oral appliances that can open the airway while sleeping. Seniors should always speak up if they think their symptoms are becoming dangerous.
Senior Helpers Provides Excellent Senior Care
Managing sleep apnea isn't always easy, but following these tips can help improve the overall quality of life for seniors living alone. Of course, seniors should also consider utilizing the services of a caretaker if they feel as though they need a bit of extra support. A strong support network can also be valuable for seniors with health concerns such as sleep apnea. Finally, it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms become too serious or unmanageable at home.
Senior Helpers Greenville offers guidance on managing sleep apnea so seniors feel safe and comfortable in their homes. If you are looking for care in the Simpsonville or Greenville area, contact us today!