Sleep is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. Seniors need approximately 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Good sleep can improve memory and concentration, reduce the risk of depression, and support the immune system.
Below is a list of 5 common sleep problems that seniors face and ways to manage them.
1. Insomnia. This occurs when someone has persistent trouble falling or staying asleep. Various medications, psychological training, and lifestyle changes such as relaxing before bed or exercising regularly can be used to treat insomnia.
2. Sleep apnea. Occurring in 1 in 20 people, this often affects people who are unaware they have it. The body realizes that you’re not getting enough oxygen, wakes up long enough to gasp for air, and falls back asleep without realizing. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a common therapy for this condition.
3. Parasomnias. These are disruptive sleep disorders that include sleep terrors and sleepwalking. You can manage various types of parasomnias by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, managing stress, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives.
4. Restless leg syndrome. Usually due to an uncomfortable sensation, this condition results in an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. Restless leg syndrome is typically treated using medications that relax muscles or release chemicals in the brain.
5. Narcolepsy. This is when people can’t help themselves from falling asleep. Taking scheduled naps and undergoing regular monitoring can prevent episodes of narcolepsy.
Love them without losing yourself. The Boom Health app helps you manage your loved one’s home care in one app. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
