A restful sleep is so important to seniors, but as the body ages, quality sleep time becomes more challenging. Even so, researchers recommend seniors get at least seven hours of sleep per night. Here are a few ways to help your senior get more rest and overcome those age-related sleep problems.
- Darken the room. Some seniors may experience thinning eyelids as they grow older, and the intrusion of light can make it more difficult for your loved one to stay asleep after the sun rises. This can be a serious issue in higher latitudes during the summer months when daylight hours may extend to 14 or more hours a day. Darkening shades may help.
- Pain-driven sleeplessness. Sometimes nagging pain causes a lack of sleep. Arthritis and fibromyalgia can exacerbate sleeplessness, so make sure a physician knows what is going on with your senior’s pain level. If lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies are not sufficient, consult a physician for other treatment options.
- Non-age related sleep issues. It can be a normal part of aging to experience more frequent awakenings during the night. Still, it’s a good idea to have a physician evaluate your senior’s sleep issues should any of these signs of sleep problems occur. Insomnia afflicts people of all ages.
- Get your senior moving. Moderate to mild exercise can be a real aid in improving an elder’s quality of sleep. Gentle stretches and around-the-block walks can help a senior achieve a more restful sleep at night. If your loved one is unsteady on his or her feet, a walker can be a helpful aid to getting a healthy dose of fresh air.
- Diabetes. Circadian rhythms are the biological clock that controls sleep cycles. Scientists have found a direct link between the body’s circadian rhythms and diabetes. If sleeplessness continues to be an issue for your senior, you may want to make an appointment for your loved one to be tested for diabetes.