Seniors’ sleep needs and patterns change with age, so it’s critical for their general health and well-being to make sure they get the recommended amount of sleep. Sustaining physical health, emotional stability, and cognitive performance all depend on getting enough sleep. With in-home care providers and the support of loved ones, seniors can work through any challenges to determine whether they’re getting too little or too much sleep, which can both have negative consequences.
This blog post will discuss the variables that affect sleep and how to recognize the symptoms of both too little and too much sleep.
Elements Affecting Sleep
While each situation is unique, certain elements can be monitored by having in-home care aides to ensure that seniors get the sleep they need.
Modifications to Circadian Rhythms: Seniors frequently have modifications to their circadian rhythms, which cause a change in their sleep-wake cycle. Early bedtimes and morning wake-up times may result from this.
Side Effects of Medication: Some medications used to treat age-related diseases may have an impact on sleep patterns. To assess possible medication modifications, seniors should discuss any sleep-related concerns with their healthcare provider.
Health Conditions: Chronic conditions like arthritis, insomnia, and sleep apnea can have a significant impact on sleep quality. To encourage healthier sleep, these disorders must be treated and managed.
Suggested Sleep Duration for Seniors and Symptoms to Watch For
For those 65 years of age and older, the National Sleep Foundation suggests aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep per night. However, each person’s demands are unique, and variables such as genetics, lifestyle, and general health might affect how much sleep is best for them.
It’s important to note that monitoring is key. This is because the symptoms of too much or too little sleep are often the same. With in-home care, seniors can be monitored to see which side of the spectrum they fall into.
Daytime Sleepiness: Recurrent bouts of daytime sleepiness could be a sign that seniors aren’t getting enough sleep at night.
Decreased Focus: Seniors who have trouble focusing or struggle with memory might not be functioning as well cognitively as they should. Rather than think the worst, it might simply be that they are suffering from sleep deprivation.
Mood Shifts: Inadequate sleep has been connected to irritability, mood fluctuations, and elevated emotions of stress and worry.
Depression: In certain circumstances, getting too much sleep has been linked to a higher chance of developing depression.
How Can In-Home Care Help?
With in-home care in place, seniors can be encouraged to take the following steps toward better health:
Create a Routine: A regular evening routine can aid in regulating the body’s internal clock and promoting a regular sleep and wake pattern. This routine should be followed on the weekends as well.
Establish an Appropriate Sleep Environment: Seniors should make sure the bedroom is quiet, dark, and at a temperature that is appropriate for sleeping in.
Get Physical: Exercising regularly will help seniors sleep better, but it should be avoided right before bed, especially if it’s strenuous.
Getting enough sleep is essential to being healthy in the golden years. Incorporating in-home care can help ensure seniors experience the benefits of restorative and rejuvenating sleep.
Sources: https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/strategies-for-improving-sleep-in-older-adults/#:~:text=Maintain%20a%20routine.,do%20to%20improve%20your%20sleep.%E2%80%9D
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sleep/good-nights-sleep#:~:text=Medication%2C%20warm%20baths%2C%20exercise%2C,so%20your%20body%20stays%20still.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services in Murfreesboro TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (615) 307-4509
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Nashville, Brentwood, Nolensville, Gallatin, Hendersonville, Smyrna, Murfreesboro, Mount Juliet, Lebanon, Goodlettsville, Davidson County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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