Healthy Sleeping Guide for Seniors (updated)

As we age, most of us will experience bodily changes that affect how we sleep. These changes often become more pronounced later in life, and the effects may be influenced by chronic illness or the side effects of prescription medication. As a result, sleep problems and disorders are relatively common among seniors. Most older adults sleep seven hours or less each night, even though healthy adults require seven to nine hours of sleep on a nightly basis. A survey of adults over the age of 65 by the National Institutes of Health also found that 13 percent of men and 28 percent of women require more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. We found a wonderful sleeping guide for seniors and we want to share this to everyone.

In this article, Sleep and Aging: Senior Sleep Guide, from Tuck.com insomnia and other sleep disorders such as; sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, snoring and REM sleep behavior disorder are deliberated at length. The article also offers a breakdown of sleep aids for seniors that can help with such conditions – prescription, non-prescription and herbal remedies. Moreover, it looks at unique considerations for addressing sleep disorders in elderly patients – dementia, Alzheimers and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Furthering their assessment Tuck.com then explores some strategies that older people can adopt to improve their sleep hygiene and ensure a healthy circadian cycle. Tucks’ research by leading experts suggests tips like sticking to a sleep schedule, being active during the day, getting vitamin D, not drinking before bed, taking a bath before bed and converting your bedroom into a sleep sanctuary.

Additional sleep resources, forums, help and support groups, sleep studies and findings, as well as resource guides are also available.