How to Reduce Sleep Problems in Older Adults

At Right at Home Loughton, Redbridge & Waltham Forest, we understand that quality sleep is important for healthy aging. We're committed to helping our Clients achieve the rest they need.

Common Sleep Challenges

Difficulty Falling Asleep - Many adults have trouble falling asleep either due to their thoughts or through physical discomfort.

Waking Up at Night - A lot of seniors wake up because they need the bathroom more often or due to medication side effects.

Restless or Unrefreshing Sleep - Sometimes we wake up and don't feel fully refreshed, it is completely normal for this to happen.

Common Causes of Sleep Problems

Medical Conditions: Chronic health conditions like arthritis, heart disease and diabetes can cause sleep problems as well as neurological conditions like dementia or Parkinson's disease.

Medications: Some prescribed medication can interfere with sleep. They don't always, but it can just be one of the side effects of the medication.

Lifestyle: Not doing as much physical activity like walking around can be a factor. Also, irregular sleep schedules and napping too much during the day can cause sleeping difficulties at night. If you would like to nap, try to have a maximum of 1 hour.

Mental Health: Anxiety, depression or stress can affect your ability to sleep.

Strategies for Better Sleep

• Create an optimal sleep environment: control the temperature (use a fan if it is too warm and use a blanket if it is too cold), control the lighting, noise management and have comfortable bedding.
• Establish a consistent sleep routine; regulate your sleep schedule by waking up and sleeping at a regular time and limit daytime naps.
• Lifestyle/Physical Health: Try to do regular exercise like walks or chair exercises and activities that can mentally stimulate you such as puzzles or colouring.

How Our Carers at Right at Home Loughton, Redbridge & Waltham Forest Help

Family members or Carers can help by observing and taking notes of any sleeping patterns or changes. With these observations, try to support them by creating routines or a better sleep environment. If serious issues are spotted, you can always contact health care professionals such as a GP, to get some advice.

Benefits of Better Sleep

• Improved mood
• Better cognitive function and memory
• Better physical health
• Less likely to be tired and make mistakes like falling over or accidents

Sleep problems are a very common issue but with the right support and changes, it can be improved.