No matter what your age, sleeping well is essential to your physical health and emotional well-being. As we age, a good night’s sleep is especially important because it improves concentration and memory formation, allows your body to repair any cell damage that occurred during the day, and refreshes your immune system which helps to prevent disease.
Many seniors complain about sleep problems such as:
· difficulty falling asleep
· frequent waking during the night, and lighter sleep
· waking up early and not feeling rested
· a urge to go to bed in early evening
· being tired in the daytime
· needing naps during the day
To feel your best, you need a good night’s sleep, and you may be surprised that keeping yourself active and engaged, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can improve how well you sleep.
How is sleep related to an active, healthy lifestyle?
A National Sleep Foundation poll of older adults found a close relationship between the health and quality of life of older adults, and their sleep quantity and quality. “The NSF poll found that the better the health of older adults, the more likely they are to sleep well. Conversely, the greater the number of diagnosed medical conditions, the more likely they are to report sleep problems. Additionally, among older adults, more positive moods and outlooks as well as having more active and "engaged" lifestyles (having someone to speak with about a problem, exercise, volunteer activity, etc.) are associated with sleeping 7–9 hours and fewer sleep complaints.”
Getting enough sleep is especially important for the elderly because their body is easier to tire. One of the best things to do to ensure sleep is to limit their intake of caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine. Also, engaging in a regular exercise routine will help keep them in the right mood and reduce stress. Bad mood and stress are some of the reasons that keep seniors from falling asleep.