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Author: Ketan Shah

Getting good sleep makes a huge difference in how people feel, but many seniors find that it’s tough to get the rest that they need and want. Having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or just feeling rested when they wake up becomes more of an issue with age. Occasional sleep disruptions are normal at any age, but if the trouble continues, seniors may find them interfering with overall wellness. Understanding the causes can help families find the right solutions, and home care providers can help decipher what might be going on.

Why Sleep Changes with Age

As people age, natural changes occur in their sleep patterns. Some seniors might experience lighter sleep or wake up more often during the night. Early evening sleepiness is also common. Changes in circadian rhythms and reduced melatonin production might disrupt sleep. Health conditions, like heart disease or respiratory illnesses, might make it more difficult for seniors to rest. And frustratingly, medications can have side effects that interfere with sleep quality as well.

Common Causes of Senior Sleep Trouble

Many of the challenges that seniors have with sleep can arise because of lifestyle or environmental factors. Reduced activity levels during the day, lack of exposure to natural light, or irregular daily routines can confuse the body’s internal clock. Stress and anxiety, along with feeling lonely, can also make it difficult for seniors to relax at night. Chronic pain, restless legs, or other health issues might also be a factor.

How Home Care Supports Better Sleep

Elder care providers don’t offer medical assistance, but they are there with seniors and can help them to maintain healthy routines and spot potential issues that affect their sleep. Professional caregivers can help seniors to adopt consistent routines, including ones that support eating regularly and getting to bed when seniors want. Home care professionals can also help out with timing routines so that seniors ease through their days and naturally wind down before bed.

Creating a Sleep-friendly Home Environment

A comfortable bedroom environment plays an important role in sleeping well, too. Seniors often need a quiet, cool room at night to sleep comfortably. Having the right bedding, including supportive mattresses, can help to reduce overnight disruptions. Home care providers can help seniors to spot issues that might be making it tougher for them to get the sleep they need, and offer gentle suggestions.

Sleep and Emotional Wellness

When seniors feel isolated, anxious, or are in need of more emotional support, they may struggle with sleep issues more frequently. Home care providers offer companionship and emotional support that builds a sense of security for aging adults. Trusted caregivers offer reassurance and consistency that helps aging adults feel less stressed and calmer, and that can translate to better sleep.

Improving Sleep Improves Quality of Life

When seniors get the sleep they need, they can improve their immune functioning, experience better moods, and even improve their energy levels. Addressing the root causes of sleep issues gives seniors a better chance at living their lives the way they want as they age in place.

Putting the right routines in place helps aging adults determine where they’re having the most trouble and get further assistance if they need it. Home care providers can support seniors with all sorts of routines, helping them to age in place gracefully for as long as they would like to do so.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Santa Clara, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers today (408) 317-4969.