Sleep For The Senior Body

Leading Mattress Store In Cumming Busts Myths About Senior Sleep Needs

Older adults need less sleep – or do they? While some people believe that seniors don’t need to sleep as much as the average adult, the truth is they do. However, some don’t get as much sleep as they need due to a number of reasons. What causes sleep deprivation in seniors and how can you help address the problem? Here’s what the top mattress store in Cumming has to say about the matter.

The Importance Of Getting Enough Sleep

Like most adults, seniors need at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night to ensure their general well-being and improve their quality of life. Specifically, a good night’s sleep can help:

• Improve cardiovascular health
• Enhance memory and attention span
• Strengthen the immune system
• Increase alertness during waking hours and reduce the risk of falls
• Reduce the risk and/or symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Improve appetite

Why Do Sleep Patterns Change?

As people age, their sleeping pattern also changes due to a number of reasons. Some may prefer sleeping earlier in the evening since they tend to wake up earlier in the morning or have to spend more time in bed to make sure they get enough rest. Most seniors also tend to sleep lightly and often wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.

While these changes may simply be a part of the aging process and indicate nothing out of the ordinary, sleep deprivation may also be brought about by an underlying medical condition. According to a study conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, 24% of people aged 65 to 84 has four or more medical conditions and that 80% of these people are also experiencing sleep problems as a result of their condition.

What Causes Sleep Deprivation In Older Adults?

There are a number of sleep disorders and other chronic medical conditions that may contribute to sleep deprivation. Insomnia and snoring or sleep apnea are two of the most common sleep disorders affecting the elderly while a number of medical conditions (e.g. gastroesophageal reflux disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, restless leg syndrome) may also cause sleep problems.

Sleep problems in older adults may also result from:

• Taking certain medications
• Stress
• Lack of exercise, exposure to sunlight, and social engagement
• Poor sleeping habits and sleep environment

Tips To Help Seniors Sleep Better At Night

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, including weekends.
• Eat a healthy diet during the day and take the last meal of the day 2 to 3 hours before going to bed.
• Avoid stimulants (sugar, caffeine, alcohol) before bedtime.
• Be more active and have a regular exercise routine.
• Get enough sunlight.
• Create a conducive sleep environment. The bedroom should be kept cool, dark, and quiet. For best results, use a comfortable, high-quality mattress and pillows. Visit your local mattress store in Cumming to learn which mattress is right for you.

Seniors Need The Best Sleep They Can Get, Get It With The Top Mattress Store in Cumming

Older adults often have trouble sleeping. That’s why we offer more than just a great mattress. At Fred’s Beds, we offer great beds to help you sleep better through the night! We have everything you need so visit our mattress store in Cumming or give us a call at 770-628-5875 to get a high-quality mattress that fits your needs and budget. We are open from 10 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday and 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays.

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