Getting a good night's sleep is important for everyone, especially seniors. A good night’s sleep helps keep your body and mind healthy.
But as you get older, it can be harder to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. And if you're a senior or caring for one, you might be looking for ways to get better sleep.
In this blog post, we'll share some simple tips to help seniors get the restful sleep they need.
Understanding Sleep Changes in Seniors
As we get older, our sleep patterns change. You might find yourself wanting to go to bed earlier in the evening and waking up earlier in the morning.
While your sleep patterns may shift, you still need around 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel your best. The important thing is to pay attention to your body and make a sleep schedule that works for you.
Tips for Helping Seniors Get a Good Night’s Sleep
There are several ways that can help you or your senior loved one sleep better.
Stick to a Regular Sleep Schedule
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. This lets your body get used to a routine, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up.
Be Careful with Naps
Long naps during the day can make it harder to sleep at night. Keep naps short (less than 30 minutes) and avoid napping late in the day.
Exercise Regularly, But Not Right Before Bed
Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and sleep better. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activities on most days and avoid exercising too close to bedtime, ideally at least three hours before.
Make Your Bedroom Sleep-Friendly
A quiet, dark, and cool bedroom can help you sleep better. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows, and consider using earplugs if necessary.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Screen light from phones, tablets, and TVs can disrupt sleep. Try to switch off these devices at least an hour before bed.
Instead, do something relaxing like reading or listening to calm music.
Be Careful What You Watch
Avoid watching stimulating shows like horror movies before bed as they can keep you awake. Choose calm, relaxing movies to watch or skip TV altogether before bed.
Have a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Doing the same relaxing things before bed each night can tell your body it's time to sleep. This could be taking a warm bath, stretching, or practicing deep breathing.
Watch Out for Caffeine
Caffeine can stay in your body for hours, making it harder to fall asleep. Try to avoid caffeine in the late afternoon and evening. Remember, caffeine is in coffee, tea, soda, and even chocolate.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you or your senior loved one always feels tired, struggles to sleep at night, or wakes up exhausted, it might be time to talk to a doctor.
These symptoms can indicate an underlying health issue. Don't brush it off as a normal part of aging.
Read Also: Senior Health: Fighting Back Against Poor Sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for seniors to stay healthy and feel good. You can sleep better by making small changes to your daily habits and bedroom.
If you're looking for in-home care for seniors in Lafayette, Broussard, Youngsville, St. Martin Parish, and the surrounding areas, we can help. Our CarePros can support you with daily tasks and help you maintain a healthy sleep schedule.
For more information about our in-home care services in Lafayette, Broussard, Youngsville, St. Martin Parish, and surrounding areas, please call us to schedule a free consultation with our Care Manager.
Interested in making a difference in seniors' lives? Explore our available home care job openings today.
