Five Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep
Senior Care Modesto CA – Five Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep
It’s normal for seniors to have shifting sleep patterns. They often go to bed earlier and get up when the sun rises. They also don’t sleep as heavily. They may wake up during the night with a full bladder and struggle to get back to sleep.
Getting a full night’s sleep is important for both mental and physical health. If your parents are struggling, here are some tips that might help.
Create a Soothing Routine
Before bed, get your mom or dad into a regular routine that relaxes them. Maybe a warm bubble bath with a cup of chamomile tea is ideal. Reading in bed for an hour with an aromatherapy diffuser releasing lavender is another option. Try to limit stimulating things like movies, games, or exercise.
Consider Bedding
Is your parent’s mattress getting old? Can you feel the coils? A newer mattress may help with sleep difficulties. You don’t even have to go to a store if time is an issue. Memory foam mattresses today come rolled up in a slender box. Carry it to the bedroom, unroll it, let it sit for a day or two, and the mattress plumps up.
Being too hot to sleep is another common issue. Get a lightweight down or bamboo comforter that allows air to flow. Your mom or dad will be warm without overheating.
Turn on White Noise
If your parents are used to going to bed early, neighborhood activities may keep them up. Kids playing until the sun goes down, lawnmowers running after people get home from work, and backyard barbecues are common issues in the summer. A white noise machine drowns out noises that can keep your parents from getting the sleep they need.
Lower Caffeine Intake
If your mom or dad really has to have a cup of coffee, keep it to the morning hours. Once lunch is over, it’s important to give caffeine time to clear the system. Switching to herbal teas or decaf beverages is essential. Instead of water, see if you can get your mom to drink seltzer. If your dad really likes a coffee after dinner, make it decaf.
Avoid Naps
When seniors are able to nap all day, they’re less likely to sleep at night. Make sure they follow a routine to prevent lengthy naps. Senior care providers are a great way to make sure they’re active throughout the day.
Senior care providers can get your parents involved by playing games, joining them for walks, or driving them to the senior center. With a senior care aide, your parent can go out shopping or spend the day gardening without overheating. Learn more by calling our senior care agency.