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Understanding How Insomnia Affects Seniors

Companion Care at Home in Rockville MD
Companion Care at Home in Rockville MD

People of all ages are susceptible to insomnia, a common sleep disorder. However, because of the changes that come with aging, insomnia can have particular effects on seniors. To examine the impact of insomnia on seniors and any possible adverse effects it may have on their physical and mental health, continue reading. The good news is there are things loved ones and companion care at home can do to help seniors get balanced sleep.

Understanding Sleep

How people sleep evolves with advancing age. A decline in deep sleep, which is essential for physical recovery and renewal, may be experienced by seniors. They might also experience more interrupted sleep, including numerous nighttime awakenings. These changes may make falling asleep and staying asleep more complex, resulting in insomnia. Sleep affects physical, mental, and emotional health, making consistency essential.

  • Consequences for physical health: Sleep is essential for maintaining overall physical health, and it can have severe repercussions for seniors who experience chronic insomnia. Age-related immune system deterioration can increase seniors’ susceptibility to infections and illnesses. Additionally, it can raise the risk of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular problems, and chronic pain diseases.
  • Cognitive function and sleep: The best cognitive function, including the ability to concentrate, consolidate memories, pay attention, and solve problems, depends on getting enough sleep. A higher risk of cognitive problems, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, is also associated with insomnia. The mental deterioration may be more evident in seniors who have insomnia. They might need help with concentration, decision-making, and memory recall.
  • The impact on emotional health: Insomnia can harm a senior’s emotional health. Lack of sleep can cause agitation, mood fluctuations, worry, and depression. Due to their exhaustion and emotional instability, seniors with chronic insomnia may find it difficult to sustain relationships or participate in social activities. Having companion care at home can help monitor their sleep and behaviors due to decreased sleep.
  • Interrupted sleep can affect stability: Insomnia-related sleep loss can impair seniors’ balance, coordination, and general physical performance, which raises their risk of falling and suffering accidents. Seniors should be especially cautious about falls since they can result in serious problems like fractures, hospitalization, and a loss of overall mobility and independence.

Creating a Plan for Better Sleep

An all-encompassing strategy that tackles the underlying reasons, as well as the symptoms, is necessary to manage insomnia in seniors. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia, lifestyle changes – such as creating a regular sleep pattern, improving the sleep environment, and engaging in relaxation techniques are all possible forms of treatment. In some situations, medication might also be prescribed. Seniors should speak with medical experts to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique requirements.

Insomnia can significantly negatively impact seniors’ physical and mental health, cognitive abilities, emotional stability, and general quality of life. It is critical to identify and treat insomnia in seniors if they want to improve their general health and well-being. Loved ones and companion care at home can help seniors identify when their sleep is failing and create a plan to improve their situation.

Source:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30058034/#:~:text=The%20choice%20of%20a%20hypnotic,sleep%20onset%20and%20sleep%20maintenance.
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/insomnia/older-adults
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5991956/
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/how-to-sleep-well-as-you-age.htm
https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/insomnia-in-elderly

If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Rockville, MD, please contact the caring staff at Care At Home today. 301-970-9706

Ann Smith RN

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