Sleep

As we age, our sleep patterns naturally change and we may experience light sleep, frequent awakenings, and daytime fatigue. These changes are normal, and in most cases sleep problems can be alleviated by changing our bedtime habits. Some examples of things we can do to encourage sleep might include having a regular bedtime, establishing pre-sleep rituals, exercising regularly, and avoiding caffeine, smoking, and alcohol before bedtime.

Quick Reference Guide

Websites of Interest

The website SleepNZ has a variety of information on many different forms of sleep difficulty, their causes and what to do.

This information has been summarised from an article by Theresa Defino. The full transcript of the article called "Simple Steps Can Combat Sleep Problems in Elderly" can be obtained by clicking here. For another interesting article on sleep try the my.webmd.com website.

Having Trouble Sleepng as you Grow Older- this article may be of interest for you. People 65 and older may have trouble falling asleep when they go to bed at night. They might not stay asleep all night. They might wake up very early in the morning and not be able to go back to sleep.

Sleeping Well As We Age: Healthy Habits to Reduce Sleep Problems and Prevent Insomnia. Age alone does not cause sleep problems. Disturbed sleep, waking up tired every day, and other symptoms of insomnia are not a normal part of aging. Instead, poor sleep habits and conditions such as untreated sleep disorders, medications, or medical problems can accumulate and compound to result in sleeplessness. This article in Helpguide.com will help you understand the causes of sleep problems and provide tips to help you sleep well.

There is a lot of useful information on the emedicine site on Sleep and the elderly.

Another useful site is familydoctor.org. Their site looks at sleep changes in the elderly. It includes information on restless leg syndrome, and periodic limb movement disorder

The main thing to remember is that if you can't go to sleep ... don't lie there worrying about it. If you are having trouble getting a good night's sleep despite your best efforts your doctor may refer you to a sleep clinic usually located in hospitals.

Quick Reference Guide

CHALLENGE

SUGGESTIONS/IDEAS

CONTACT

A GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP

Have a bedtime routine

Perform a fire-check before bed

Keep warm but turn off electric blankets

Avoid using hot water bottles due to possibility of burns, beware of wheat bags - ensure properly made as home-made ones have been known to catch fire when heated in microwave due to type of wheat used

Radio for company/good book if able to read

Use a torch or night lights for nocturnal navigation to the toilet

Have a telephone by your bed

Fresh air and exercise daily if possible

Be aware that medication can make you drowsy

See your doctor if you have having difficulty sleeping

To get your electric blanket checked every year contact Age Concern

If worried about getting up too often to the toilet, reduce fluid intake 2 hours before bedtime

Contact Telecom for another phone

Write down tasks for the next day if worrying over them to help organise your thoughts

Please Note Age Concern North Shore has tried to ensure that all information on this website is correct. However, Age Concern North Shore does not accept liability for any statements or advice contained on, or omissions from, nor endorse any suggested site on this website. Other websites referred to on this website are here for reference only. The information on this website should not be regarded as a substitute for professional advice and we do suggest that you consult with your health, legal or financial professional.

Website last updated 04/12/2008