Does someone in your family suffer from interrupted sleep? Sleep is critical to a person’s health and well-being. If your loved one finds they’re sleeping poorly or not at all, their health and mental wellbeing can take a real hit. Fortunately, there are a few effective sleep remedies out there you can try.
What is disrupted sleep?
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is commonly referred to as insomnia. According to the National Institute of Aging, in adults older than 60, insomnia is the most common type of sleep problem.
Generally, episodes of insomnia will last for several days or even longer periods of time. An occasional restless night is normal and may be nothing to worry about. If disrupted sleep patterns are sustained and impact your loved one’s life though, you may want to consider using sleep remedies.
Without proper sleep, people may experience moodiness, irritability, discomfort, and behavior changes. Lack of sleep also can lead to an increase in depression. If you notice such changes with your loved one, it’s time to have a discussion with your doctor.
Sleep remedies can help
Over the counter and prescription sleep remedies are available to help your loved one get a better night’s rest. However, pills aren’t the only way to help someone get a proper night’s shuteye. Try the following before turning to pharmacological solutions:
Address the root cause
Anxiety and stress can both contribute to interrupted sleep patterns and behaviors. While many seniors are retired, they may worry about finances or family members. They may be dealing with the death of friends or a partner. Addressing these anxieties, stressors, and points of sadness can do wonders for sleep issues.
Evaluate the bedroom
If you’re dealing with chronic sleep problems, you’ll also want to take a good look at where your loved one is sleeping. Evaluate the mattress and make sure it doesn’t need to be replaced. Make sure the environment is appropriate for sleep. It should be calm and relaxing. A white noise machine can be beneficial if there are auditory disturbances. Temperature can affect the quality of sleep, so make sure you take this into account as well.
Diet and nutrition can help too
Your loved one’s diet and nutrition may play an important role in their sleep as well. Try cutting back on caffeine, especially in the evening before bed. Large meals and spicy food can also contribute to difficulty sleeping. Try to eat small portions and avoid eating too much of the spicy food.
Establish a routine and stick to it
A nighttime routine can also be helpful. This may include such things as a cup of herbal tea or a bathing ritual. Avoid associating the bedroom with other activities, like television watching or reading. This can help prepare the mind for sleep, which can help reduce difficulty when it comes to falling asleep.
Helping to get their sleep back on track
Not all sleep remedies will work for every person. Make one or two minor changes at a time and see what’s helpful — and what’s not. This can help you narrow down where their difficulty is coming from. Knowing why your loved one is having difficulty will help you better determine which solutions will help them the most.
At Haym Salomon Home for Nursing & Rehabilitation in Brooklyn, we know the importance of a good night’s sleep. Our bedrooms are relaxing environments conducive to rest and relaxation. To help those who struggle to sleep, we utilize a range of sleep remedies, turning to medication only when strictly necessary.
This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.
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