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Sleep Tips for the Elderly |
Seniors can have the same sleep problems as any other person at any other age, but there are many other factors which can affect the elderly's sleep too. Some of these include
Less Melatonin
As we age, our bodies produce less Melatonin. (Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland, and helps our bodies regulate our sleep/awake cycles.)Â
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Fatigue
The lighter and often inconsistent sleep of the elderly can often lead to fatigue.Â
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Nursing Homes and Hospitals
Nursing homes and Hospitals are not restful places to sleep. There are often loud disruptive noises throughout the night.
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Caffeine and Alcohol
Elderly are often more susceptible to the effects of stimulants and depressants.
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Medication
Elderly people have stronger reactions to drugs. Effects of these include nightmares, insomnia, and hypersomnia.
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Chronic Illness
Illness can also complicate matters by causing pain, or depression.
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To help aid the elderly to sleep better, here are a few tips.
- Avoid caffeine or alcohol.
- Monitor prescriptions for unwanted side effects.
- Avoid over the counter remedies, which when combined with other prescription drugs can cause light or fragmented sleep, or other unwanted side effects.
- Get outside during the day for the fresh air and other beneficial effects of the sun.
- Stay physically active. A late afternoon or early evening stroll can help relax the body later on before bedtime.
- Hobbies, volunteer work, and other academic activities help to keep you mentally active. Limiting naps to about 20 minutes will help to keep you from being wide awake when evening comes.
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