Sleep and Aging

Does your sleep change from it used to be in your younger years? Many others go through this. Of men and women over 65, almost half claim they have at least one sleep issue. Many people develop insomnia or other sleep difficulties with aging.

Indeed, our sleeping patterns vary as we age. Generally speaking, older adults sleep less, wake up and return to sleep more frequently, and spend less time in deep sleep or dream state than younger individuals. To be healthy, though, you still need quality slumber at every age.

Why Do Older People Experience Sleep Problems?

Some common causes include:

Inappropriate sleeping patterns: Your body’s internal clock may be disrupted and it will be more difficult to achieve excellent sleep if you vary in your bed and wake-up time. At any age, drinking alcohol before bed, napping excessively, or staying in bed while you’re not sleeping also count as negatives.

Drugs: Certain medications may increase or decrease your ability to fall asleep or stay awake. Ask your doctor to investigate if you believe that might be the case for you.

Anxiety, tension, or loss: Aging causes several changes in life. Some are upbeat. Others are quite difficult. Losing someone you love, moving from your family house, or dealing with a condition that alters your life can all lead to stress that might disrupt your sleep. See your doctor or a counselor if changes like these impact you or an aging loved one. It might calm your thoughts so you could get more peaceful sleep.

Disorders of sleep: Along with sleeplessness, these include apnea, restless legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, and REM behavior disorder. Your physician can check to discover whether you have one of these disorders.

Too much idle time: Many remain vibrant long into their golden years. On the other hand, if your days are too empty, you could find it more difficult to get decent sleep.

Is Your Sleep Enough?

Nobody is exactly like another. Perhaps you now need less sleep if you sleep less than you did in your younger years yet still feel rested and energized during the day.

Tell your doctor, though, if you find that your lack of sleep compromises you during the day. You can follow guidelines to improve your rest. Many are easy adjustments to your everyday schedule, including deciding a consistent bedtime, increasing your activity, and acting to calm your thoughts before bed.