The amount and quality of sleep we need change as we get older. In addition to having trouble getting to and remaining asleep, many seniors also experience a decline in their sleep quality as they age. In fact, 40% to 70% of older adults report having chronic sleep problems. However, getting enough shut-eye is essential for the health and well-being of people aged over 55.
This blog will discuss the importance of healthy sleep for seniors and its effects on their everyday life.
The Importance of Sleep for Seniors
Sleep is important for everyone, but it is especially important for older adults. There are many physiological changes that occur with age that might have an effect on how well you sleep. These alterations may cause sleep disruption, worse quality sleep, and trouble getting to and staying asleep.
Here are some of the many reasons why ample sleep is important for seniors:
Benefits Memory and General Brain Health
Getting enough shut-eye is critical to maintaining a healthy brain and body. During sleep, the brain processes and consolidates new knowledge, which enhances memory and other mental abilities. Sleeping enough hours each night has been linked to improved memory, focus, and cognition in seniors.
Improves Physical Health
The immune system and the body’s physical health both benefit greatly from enough sleep. This is especially crucial for older people, who are more vulnerable to sickness and injury, as it aids the body in repairing and rejuvenating itself. Inadequate sleep can lead to an increased risk of developing several serious health problems.
Improves Emotional Health
Getting a good night’s sleep is important for your mental health. Stress and worry are two of the most common problems that seniors face, and getting a good night’s sleep can help them cope. Sleep disturbances in older adults can cause increased sadness, irritability, and mood changes.
Boosts Vitality and Strength
Getting adequate shut-eye can provide seniors with a renewed sense of vitality and boost their ability to get things done. By recharging their bodies at night, seniors can enjoy more alertness and concentration throughout the daytime.
Tips on Helping Seniors Get Better Sleep
Increasing the quality of sleep for seniors might be difficult, but there are a few options worth exploring. Here are some ways to improve the quality of sleep for seniors:
Keep a Regular Sleeping Routine
One of the most effective strategies to enhance the quality of your sleep is to stick to a regular sleep routine. It’s important for seniors to maintain a regular sleep and wake schedule, especially on the weekends.
Make the Bedroom a Calming Retreat
A senior citizen’s capacity to fall asleep and remain asleep can be improved by creating a soothing bedroom atmosphere. The bedroom environment should be kept cool, calm, free of distractions, and dark. In addition, they should not use any sort of electronic gadget in bed, including cell phones and tablets.
Maintain a Regular Exercise Routine
Seniors who engage in regular physical activity report having an easier time falling asleep and a higher quality of sleep. Exercises like going for a walk or joining a yoga class are great options for seniors looking to stay active during the day.
Stay Off the Caffeine and Liquor
Consuming either coffee or alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime is not recommended for seniors. Both caffeine and alcohol can disturb the body’s normal sleep cycle, but caffeine is especially disruptive. Instead, older adults should try a warm beverage like milk or herbal tea to unwind.
Get Help From A Doctor
Chronic insomnia is a medical emergency, and seniors with it should visit a doctor. A medical professional can help determine what is causing your poor sleep and address the underlying condition(s).
Reduce Screen Time Before Bed
The blue light from screens prevents the body from producing melatonin, making it difficult to fall asleep. In the hour or so leading up to the night, put away the phone, tablet, and computer and just lie back and drift off into slumber.
Consider a Retirement Community
Sometimes it’s just not possible for the family or household members of an older adult to create an environment conducive to relaxation. Especially if it’s a home with young children and lots of family members. Plus, not all homes re designed with conveniences that prioritize senior safety. Fortunately, your senior loved one can get all the comfort and sleep they need at a retirement community. These communities are built with the special needs of seniors in mind. You can rest easy (pun intended) knowing that your loved one is getting the care they need at a senior living community.
Find the Right Retirement Community with Us
At Arrow Senior Living Advisors, we understand that finding the right senior living community can be overwhelming. We are here to help seniors and their families navigate the process of finding an assisted living or memory care community in Oklahoma, Texas, or Iowa.
Get in touch with us if you need guidance with finding the right assisted living or memory care community for your older relative. Our experienced senior living advisors are dedicated to helping you find the perfect community to meet your loved one’s unique needs.
