As the spring season bursts into life, it brings a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors and changes in daylight patterns that can disrupt our bedtime habits. This change is particularly impactful for golden-agers, as quality rest is crucial for their overall health and well-being. We offer strategies to get better sleep for seniors during challenging seasonal daylight changes.
The Impact of Seasonal Change on Respite
Springtime brings longer daylight hours. With sunrise arriving earlier and sunset coming later, our internal sleep clocks suffer disruption. Elderly loved ones need to adapt to these changes to maintain restfulness, which helps them stay active during the day and rest well at night.
Creating a Soothing Environment
Making a few adjustments to the bed environment can significantly impact slumber quality. A comfortable and supportive mattress and pillow are fundamental. A room temperature of around 65 degrees Fahrenheit promotes better slumber. We underestimate the impact of noise and light, but a quiet and dark room significantly improves slumber. Use earplugs, eye masks, blackout curtains, and a white noise machine if needed.
Maintaining a Consistent Bedtime
A regular rest schedule is vital for high sleep quality. Focus on going to bed and waking up simultaneously every day, even on weekends. While naps are tempting, long daytime siestas can make it harder to doze off at night. Limiting the intake of caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime helps, as these substances can interfere with getting a shut-eye.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
A balanced diet plays an indirect but essential role in promoting calm. Heavy, greasy, or sugary foods eaten close to bedtime can cause discomfort, making respite elusive. Regular physical activity improves bedtime quality. However, try to finish exercising at least a few hours before bedtime, as it can leave you feeling energized, making it harder to nod off.
It's also worth noting that consuming too many liquids before bed can lead to frequent bathroom trips during the night, disrupting sleep. Setting a cut-off time for drinks can help avoid this issue.
Seeking Professional Help
If problems persist, it could be time to seek professional help. Conditions like insomnia and sleep apnea are common in golden-agers and may affect their repose. Professional caregivers can assist in creating a conducive restful ambiance and regular time for bed, managing diet and exercise routines to get better shuteye, and providing support through the night if needed.
We Can Help Provide Better Sleep for Seniors
While springtime brings a fresh and vibrant start to the year, longer daylight hours can present challenges with napping. However, with a few adjustments, we can help provide better sleep for seniors.
If you reside in Long Beach, Carson, Avalon, Signal Hill, or Compton and find it tough to manage respite issues or need other support, don't hesitate to contact us at Senior Helpers Long Beach. We would love to discuss our Personal Care and Respite Care services for older adults and their caregivers.