The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep for Seniors

Senior Care in Delaware, OH and Surrounding Areas

A good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to help care for your Senior in Delaware, OH and the surrounding areas. Sleep improves brain function, helps the body repair and replenish cellular components that are depleted during the day and sleep helps the immune system build up its forces to fight off illness.

There are many ways to improve sleep for Seniors, including:

• Establishing a routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends and when traveling.
• Creating a bedtime ritual: Try reading, listening to music, or taking a bath to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
• Avoiding screens in the bedroom: The light from devices like phones, tablets, and TVs can make it harder to fall asleep.
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep later in the day, and alcohol can make it harder to stay asleep.
• Avoiding large meals before bed: Eating a big meal close to bedtime can keep you awake.
• Limiting liquids late in the day: A full bladder can wake you up in the night.
• Exercising regularly: Physical activity can help you feel more tired by the end of the day.
• Sleeping on your back: Sleeping on your back can help maintain neutral spine alignment, reduce acid reflux and heartburn, and reduce the development of facial wrinkles.
• Considering relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques can help ease symptoms of movement disorders like restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder.

Implement these sleep habits slowly over a few months to help your Senior benefit from a good night’s sleep!