7 Ways Seniors Can Get Better Sleep
24-hour home care can help seniors with healthy routines and support to improve their sleeping patterns.
Seniors are almost twice as likely to have sleep problems compared to other populations. There are many reasons why seniors experience so many sleep problems, including things like medication side effects and health issues.
Getting quality sleep is important for both physical and mental health, especially for seniors. Doctors and 24-hour home care providers recommend that seniors get at least eight hours of quality sleep at night to keep their brains and bodies healthy. However, close to half of all seniors don’t get the quality sleep they need.
If your senior parent isn’t sleeping well or isn’t getting restful sleep when they do sleep, these seven tips, along with 24-hour home care, might help them get the kind of healthy sleep they need:
Get 24-Hour Home Care
Anxiety is one reason seniors have trouble sleeping. Seniors living alone often feel anxious at night because being alone in a big house is scary. Your senior parent may worry about what would happen to them if they fell while going to the bathroom, or they might worry about what they would do if there were a fire or other disaster.
With 24-hour home care your senior parent can go to sleep knowing someone is with them at home so they don’t need to worry.
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
If your senior parent has a regular sleep schedule it will help them establish a good Circadian rhythm, which can improve their sleep. Seniors should go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate the body’s internal clock and promote better sleep quality.
24-hour home care providers help seniors and their families with healthy routines and schedules.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Establishing a calming bedtime routine can signal to the body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Activities such as reading, listening to soothing music, or taking a warm bath can help seniors relax before bed.
Many seniors find it helpful to journal at night. Writing out their fears and anxieties can make it easier for them to sleep peacefully.
Create A Peaceful Bedroom Space
To encourage relaxation, make the bedroom a cozy sleeping space. Seniors should invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that provide adequate support. Cozy sheets and blankets, a humidifier, and a white noise machine can also help create a restful bedroom. Light-blocking curtains are a great way to make the bedroom totally dark.
Turn Off Electronics
Seniors should turn off all phones and electronics at least 30 minutes before bed. The blue light given off by electronics can make it more difficult for seniors to fall asleep, and turning off electronics at least 30 minutes before bed will help seniors become naturally sleepy.
Stay Active During the Day
Regular physical activity during the day can promote better sleep at night. Encourage seniors to engage in activities such as walking, gardening, or gentle exercises, but avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime. If they are concerned about safety, 24-hour home care providers can be there to accompany them and help.
Limit Daytime Naps
While short naps can be beneficial for seniors, excessive daytime napping can disrupt nighttime sleep patterns. Encourage seniors to limit daytime naps to 20-30 minutes and avoid napping too close to bedtime.
With the help of 24-hour home care, seniors can practice these tips to improve their sleeping patterns.
If you or an aging loved one is considering 24-Hour Home Care in Falls Church, VA, please contact the caring staff at Butters Home Health Care today. (703) 371-2113
Sources: