Everyone needs sleep regardless of age. Children need it, students need it, and even adults need enough sleep to prepare for the next business day. However, older adults, in particular, need adequate sleep to rejuvenate their bodies and stay healthy. If you’re an older adult who’s not getting enough rest, consider these three tips that can help older adults get a good night’s sleep. These simple solutions will help you rest and recover after a long day.
Put Down the Electronics
One of the easiest things you can do to avoid insomnia or restlessness is to put down any electronics. It’s common knowledge that smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices emit light at a certain frequency that disrupts healthy sleep patterns. Although many devices today offer a nighttime option that dims and alters the light frequency, it’s better to set a time for yourself when you put away your electronics altogether. Instead, pick up a book or do a craft to tire your mind and body as you prepare for slumber.
Exercise During the Day
It also helps to exercise during the day. This doesn’t need to be anything strenuous. Simple exercises and body mechanics help tire you out for the end of the day. Naturally, exercise is a great way to improve mobility, cognition, strength, cardiac health, and digestion. It also improves sleep and sleep quality. You’ll find that even light workouts may be enough to help you rest easy once nighttime comes. Exercising doesn’t need to be a daily occurrence, though. Whether it’s every day or a few times a week, exercise may be the simple solution to promoting healthy sleep patterns.
Avoid Midday Naps
Another tip that can help older adults get a good night’s sleep is to avoid midday naps. Midday naps can tempt you, especially during the summer months when it’s warm and comfortable. There’s nothing wrong with exposing yourself to sunlight and receiving Vitamin D. Just don’t fall into a cycle of taking midday naps whenever the sun’s still up. Although a nap isn’t harmful, the impact it can have on your circadian rhythm is troublesome. Midday naps may keep you up later and ruin your natural sleep cycle. If you’re someone who goes to bed at a regular time, taking more midday naps may impact that and cause you to stay up later than you want.
If you’re someone who doesn’t sleep well, you may be at a higher risk for injuries and accidents. Therefore, it’s crucial to use a medical alert device for seniors. At Senior Safety, we prioritize healthy and safe living for older individuals at home and on the go. Whichever system you’re looking for, we have it at affordable monthly costs. Call us with any questions, and we’ll help you find, set up, and test your medical alert system as soon as possible.
