Caring for a senior loved one can be extremely rewarding, but it can be alarming when you notice a sudden change in their habits. A proper sleep schedule is a crucial part of staying healthy, but insomnia is a real problem that many seniors deal with every night. So why do seniors sleep so much—and how can you help?
Some factors that affect a senior’s sleep schedule include:
- A poor sleep schedule
- Lifestyle and habits
- Diet and nutrition
- Medical conditions
- Mental health
- Medication
Poor Sleep Schedule
Setting a sleep schedule is key. Sleep isn’t just a way to rest; it’s crucial for recuperating, and for helping regeneration of cells throughout the body. An inconsistent sleep schedule can be detrimental, often leading to a poor night’s sleep.
If your loved one has an unusual sleep pattern or often falls asleep throughout the day, their sleep schedule should be the first place to look. It helps to:
- Make sure their bedroom is dark and comfortable
- Establish a calming bedtime routine that signals to their body it’s time to wind down
- Limit screen time in the evening to reduce stimulation before bed
- Encourage relaxation techniques such as reading, gentle stretching, or meditation
- Limit naps throughout the day
This is the first step towards healthier sleep patterns.
Lifestyle & Habits
Your loved one’s overall lifestyle is the next factor to consider. A healthy, balanced lifestyle is key to much in life, and a person’s sleep schedule is no exception.
Try to encourage:
- Regular physical exercise, as this helps the body regulate its sleep patterns
- A balanced diet, avoiding caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime
- Avoidance of alcohol and sugar before bed
- Avoidance of tobacco
Meanwhile, if your loved one leads a sedentary lifestyle or has a constantly irregular routine, this could also be affecting their sleep patterns. Consider promoting a regular routine, as this helps stabilize your loved one’s internal clock and can improve their sleep quality.
Diet & Nutrition
Diet and nutrition are essential to proper sleep quality. What your loved one eats and drinks throughout the day can significantly influence their ability to fall—and stay—asleep.
Large meals, caffeine consumption, and alcohol can easily disrupt sleep. This is due to how these substances affect the body’s hormones and neurotransmitters, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep.
Meanwhile, certain foods and supplements have been linked to improved sleep quality. For example, try to recommend:
- Foods rich in magnesium and potassium to promote relaxation
- Warm milk or herbal teas to help create a soothing bedtime routine
- Foods high in tryptophan, like turkey or bananas, to encourage the production of sleep-inducing hormones
Taking these steps can have a meaningful impact on your loved one’s ability to fall and stay asleep!
Medical Conditions
As seniors age, the odds of developing certain medical conditions can rise, and this can often be the underlying cause of an unusual sleep schedule. Whether due to a change in hormone production, their ability to stay comfortable, or even chronic pain, your loved one’s poor sleep habits could be affected by a hidden condition that needs attention.
Some common medical problems known to affect sleep include:
- Arthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
If you suspect your loved one is dealing with an undiagnosed medical condition, it’s crucial to visit a healthcare professional. Treatment is key to promoting a healthier sleep schedule.
Medication
Conversely, your loved one’s medication could be the hidden cause of your loved one’s sleep disorder. Many seniors take several medications to deal with all kinds of conditions, and sometimes these different medications can react with one another to create unwanted side effects.
For example—some medications are known to cause drowsiness, while others often lead to insomnia. If your loved one is taking several types of medication, speak with a healthcare professional; they may be able to recommend alternate solutions to prevent these sleep-related problems.
Mental Health
Mental health is much more important than people think, and it can have a large impact on a senior’s sleep patterns. Conditions like anxiety, depression, or even extreme stress can create feelings of restlessness and worry, often leading to poor sleep habits.
Try to spend some time talking with your loved one about their mental health. Some key signs that indicate a mental health disorder include:
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Increased anxiety or restlessness
- Withdrawal from social activities and loved ones
- Changes in appetite or weight
If you recognize any of these signs, it’s time to take action and seek a proper diagnosis. This shows your loved one that you love and value them as the person they are, and could be the key to them discovering a healthier sleep pattern.
Finding a Place to Call Home
At Barton House Nashville, we know how much a poor sleep schedule can affect everyday life. That’s why we’re proud to offer a community where your loved one can feel comfortable, loved, and supported each and every day. Our community is here to offer your loved one a place to call home, so book a tour with us today!
