Poor sleep patterns are a common plague amongst the elderly with trouble falling asleep effecting countless seniors everywhere. Trouble sleeping can lead to extreme fatigue during daytime hours, result in loss of energy, and even lead to depression. Many seniors who bring up their sleeping concerns to their doctors, may end up being prescribed a prescription drug to help aide with sleep however, this is not always the best option. Most seniors are already prescribed countless medications and adding another one to the list may be an added hassle. If you are suffering from trouble with your sleep patterns and are hesitant to start another medication perhaps, consider making a few simple adjustments for a more natural approach remedy. The following tips may help enhance your quality of sleep and remedy your sleep problems.
1. Set a bedtime
When we were children we had a set bedtime which we often huffed and puffed about however, more often than not we were fast asleep shortly after getting in bed. It seems weird to enforce another bedtime for yourself as an adult however, this may help your body learn when it’s time for sleep.
2. Bathe before bed
This suggestion may appear at first completely unrelated to sleep however, studies show that individuals report sleeping better when they feel clean and relaxed after a warm shower or bath.
3. Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime
Once you have stablished a bedtime for yourself be sure to cut off any caffeine and alcohol consumption at least four hours before bed. This will allow your body to relax whereas caffeine and alcohol can act as stimulators thats can keep you up at night.
4. Nap earlier in the day
If you are feeling tired due to your poor sleep patterns and must take a short nap, try to do so during the day. Try to limit your naps to 15-20 minutes and before 5:00 pm in order to minimize any disruption to your body clock.
5. Replace food with water
Food is used by our bodies for energy! This is why having a meal before bed can effect your level of sleepiness and the meal might give you a sudden surge of energy. For this reason it is best to avoid meals before bed and instead have a glass of water if you are feeling peckish.
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