Sleeping Advice for Senior Citizens

Last updated: July 28, 2016
It is common knowledge that sleeping well is very important. In a previous blog post entitled ‘The 12 Benefits of Sleeping Well’ we talked about the general impact it had on people of all ages. In this post we’ll look at sleeping advice for senior citizens and how a few simple tweaks can make their sleep even better and more comfortable.

When we think of our grandparents we tend to associate them with their afternoon snooze. Surely senior citizens get too much sleep. According to some studies however the opposite is true. Research shows that although they may go to bed earlier than younger people, Sleep Education suggests older adults often sleep less deeply and a wake up more often. There are a few reasons for this and we will take a look at them.

Insomnia

Everybody gets insomnia at some point in their lives, but it is more common for those in their later years. This is due to the body producing lower levels of growth hormones, according to Help Guide that in turn decrease deep sleep. One way to combat insomnia is to boost your melatonin levels. These are the hormones that make you sleepy. Although it may sound complicated it simply means turning off artificial lights, such as the television, an hour before bed. Using low-wattage lights to read will help raise your melatonin levels.

Sleeping Position

How we sleep can affect our sleep patterns as much as our activities during the day. Sleeping on your back is the best for old age as the head, neck, and spine are all supported. The only thing you have to watch for is whether the pillow is too thick, as this will put pressure on your neck. The next best position is to sleep on your side. Like sleeping on your back this provides support for the head neck, and spine. It also reduces snoring issues. The worst position is sleeping on your stomach as it puts prolonged pressure on your joints and muscles.

Climate

An article entitled ‘Top 10 Reasons to Retire in Miami’ suggests that there are many factors to take into consideration to making you comfortable as you get into your later years. An important point to consider is the climate. A warmer climate is great for joints and is known to make painful ailments such as arthritis more comfortable. People not used to sleeping in warmer weather can use air-conditioning to reach the optimum temperature for the most comfort. Another great factor about sleeping in a warmer climate is that you spend less time sleeping and indoors, and more time awake and active, which is much better for your health.

Sleep is as important as keeping active for a healthy and long life. Just a few adjustments to your sleeping habits can reap big benefits. To live a long life means taking care of all aspects of our wellbeing. We hope these tips will help you recognize problems in your own sleeping habits and correct them so you can lead a healthier longer life.