The importance of getting a good night's sleep is paramount to maintaining one's physical and emotional health. As we age, our sleeping patterns change - and if your senior is struggling with getting good sleep, you likely want to do everything you can to help out. In this blog from Senior Helpers Rock Hill, we will discuss why it is so important that seniors get enough sleep and how you can encourage your loved one to get proper rest.
Understanding Sleep Changes as We Age
The amount of sleep humans need changes with age. For seniors, it can become increasingly difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. The reasons for this could be age-related hormone fluctuations, individual differences in genetic makeup, stress causing a decrease in melatonin production, or irregular schedules or habits such as napping during the day.
Other determinants could be diet, medication, or environmental exposures that can cause disruption at night. Even health conditions like arthritis and chronic pain can cause seniors to struggle to get comfortable at night, which could cause sleep issues. Though each senior is different when it comes to their exact sleeping pattern needs, according to The National Institute on Aging (NIH), people aged 65+ typically require 7 hours or slightly more of uninterrupted restful sleep every night.
What Are the Potential Health Risks of Not Getting Enough Sleep?
Getting the right amount of sleep each night is incredibly important for seniors - if they don't get enough, there are potential risks to their health. These risks include depression and anxiety, impaired cognition, weakened immune system leading to increased susceptibility to disease, an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, increased stress hormones which can lead to weight gain/obesity issues, and fatigue.
How to Tell If Your Senior Isn't Getting Proper Rest
It is not always easy to tell if a senior isn't getting enough rest. Typical signs of sleep deprivation in seniors can include drowsiness during the day, forgetfulness or confusion, weakened reflexes and coordination, depression, irritability, and a decrease in energy levels. If you notice your senior loved one struggling with any of these symptoms, ask some questions about their sleep patterns.
How to Make Sure Relatives Get Enough Rest
There are ways to help your senior loved one get the sleep they need. Making sure they maintain a consistent routine, avoid caffeine late in the day, limit stimulating activities late at night (like watching TV or using electronics), and exercise regularly can provide additional benefits that may lead to better sleep.
Assisting seniors with improved environmental elements, such as reducing noise and light pollution, can also be beneficial. If snoring is an issue at night, speak to their doctor. A doctor might be able to assist with treatment options like CPAP machines, which work to clear blocked airways.
Senior Helpers Promotes Healthy Senior Sleep Habits
At Senior Helpers Rock Hill, we provide in-home care services tailored to your senior family members' needs. Working with us could help make sure your loved ones have a stress-free environment and can promote healthy habits that enable better rest. We understand the importance of getting enough sleep as you age and are here to help. If you have any questions or would like more information on our in-home services in the Rock Hill, Chester, York, and Clover areas, contact us today!