Sleep You Deserve
However, aging processes introduce a multitude of changes. New medications, different approaches to exercise, loss of friends and family, changes in lifestyle and a possibility of downsizing with a move easily result in a night of tossing and turning.
Seek Help for Sleep Problems
If you or your spouse complain of snoring or intermittent breathing during sleep, see a doctor or dentist. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, are easily diagnosed and treated. Sleep apnea may keep you or your partner from getting a good night’s rest and eventually affect overall health.
Sleep problems often lead to excessive tiredness or sluggishness during awake hours. Poor performance due to lack of sleep negatively affects daily activities. The Quality of Life for those who are frustrated by a lack of sleep is diminished.
Over-the-counter medications not prescribed by a professional could be detrimental to the health of Seniors. A professional discovers and treats the source of sleep loss, not the symptom. Over the counter medications do not regard the source. The Elderly experience confusion, constipation or a greater risk of falling when using over-the-counter drugs. Visit with a doctor first and find the safest way to resolve a sleep problem.
Alcohol Is Not a Sleep Aid
Many people self-medicate with alcohol thinking it will help them sleep. Perhaps so, but there is a price to pay for the indulgence. Alcohol prevents deep REM patterns resulting in restlessness, increased bathroom trips and more snoring due to relaxed throat muscles. Do not expect to be bright and alert after a night of generous drinking.
Become Acquainted with “Sleep Hygiene”
Good personal and oral hygiene are needed to keep your body clean and healthy. Sleep hygiene is required to enjoy a beneficial night’s rest. What is sleep hygiene? This term applies to the activities performed during waking hours. Regular exercise is as important as an occasional nap. Eliminate caffeine in the evening, get to bed at a consistent time every day and develop a pre-bed ritual. Treating yourself to a warm bath before retiring, a glass of milk, a high carb snack or a few minutes of reading all contribute to a relaxing night. Discover what to add or eliminate from your daily routine to establish good sleep hygiene.
Your Sleep Sanctuary
Beds and bedrooms are considered sanctuaries for sleep and preferences vary amongst us. Make a commitment to restful sleep. Opt for a comfortable room temperature. If light is bothersome, install blackout shades or curtains. Eye masks, earplugs, white noise from fans or media lessen distractions affecting sleep.
Eliminate electronics at bedtime. If reading, use a book, not an electronic tablet. If an electronic reader is used, adjust to night mode and change the blue cast to an amber tone.
Bridge to Better Living helps you sleep. How? We decrease the worry and stress of searching for the best Senior Retirement Living option by providing a no cost, one-on-one service. Bridge to Better Living Transition Consultants understand your wants and needs. Each of them knows the communities able to meet your current living style and situation. Bridge to Better Living’s motto is Placement with Passion. Your quality of life is important. Bridge to Better Living wants not only your days but your nights to be enjoyable for a long time. Contact Bridge to Better Living first. You will be glad you did.