Importance of Quality Sleep For Older People
As one gets older, good sleep tends to play hide-and-seek. At times, you may find yourself wide awake in the middle of the night and at times you may also fail to go into a deep sleep. Some try to deal with this transition in a constructive way, while others accept sleep deprivation as an inevitable part of ageing, which is not true. The truth is everyone needs of a good refreshing deep sleep every night, to feel revitalized and to remain healthy as age catches up.
Sleep And Age
Sleep patterns change with age. While children and teenagers require more sleep, in comparison, adults do not require much sleep. However, it is interesting to note that older adults need to sleep for the same amount of time as younger adults. This accounts to about seven to eight hours per night.
However, in reality, they sleep for comparatively fewer hours than required, more often due to issues encountered as a result of ageing. As a result, they tend to nap frequently during the day time. In such cases, an early diagnosis of the causes of lack of sleep can help in fixing the problem at the earliest.
Tips For Good Sleep
There are many things that older adults can do it sleep eludes them often, so here are some tips for getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night:
Do Some Physical Activity
Exercising everyday for some time not only improves sleeping patterns but also helps keep you fit. Exercise encourages the release of endorphins and tires you enough to make It easier for you to sleep through the night.
Get Medication Checked
Some drugs can interfere with sleeping patterns. Hence, ¡t is Important to consult the doctor In case any ingredient in the medication is disturbing your sleeping patterns.
Control Fluid Intake Before
Bedtime Avoid drinking too much water or fluids an hour or two before going to bed, as those with a weak bladder can have a disturbed sleep, because you will keep waking up to use the toilet.
Control Bedroom Lighting
Blue light emitted from the television and electronics can keep the brain awake longer. Thus, devices are best kept out of the bedroom as minimal, soft lighting is key to good sleep.
Monitor Room Temperature
Maintaining a comfortable temperature in the bedroom can help you get good sleep.
Advantages of Quality Sleep
- Lower risk of age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer1s disease
- Improved memory and emotional well-being
- Increased concentration
- Repairing of damaged cells and tissue
- Fewer falls
- Lesser fatigue during waking hours
- Improved pain tolerance
- Lesser use of medications
- Strengthens the immune system