More than 50 million Americans don’t get enough sleep. For seniors, this can be fatal because lack of sleep disrupts the body’s functions. Motor movements, hormone production, and brain function can be strained to critical levels. A good night’s sleep can keep the mind sharp, lower the risk of high blood pressure, reduce chronic fatigue, keep skin youthful, and even prevent weight gain. Fortunately, there are many foods that promote sleep. They contain such components as amino acids, vitamins, and hormones with soothing qualities. By incorporating them into your senior loved one’s diet, slumber will come faster and be undisturbed.
For seniors with health conditions that make it difficult to prepare nutritious meals on their own, professional caregivers can be a wonderful asset. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elder care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Whole Grains & Almonds
Rich in magnesium, these foods make sleep possible. They also help the body maintain a stable blood sugar level while sleeping and ease the body from the alert cycle to the rest cycle. Barley and bulgur wheat are just two examples of whole grains.
Fish, Bananas, Cherry Juice, Chickpeas, Fortified Cereals, & Miso Soup
These foods contain vitamin B6, a component needed to create the hormone melatonin, which induces sleep when darkness is present.
Many aging adults have problems sleeping, but seniors with dementia often have even more difficulty. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Richmond families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
Milk, Crackers, Bread, Walnuts, & Cheese
Foods high in carbohydrates are fine in moderation before bed because they raise the levels of tryptophan, which stimulates melatonin production to induce sleep. While this sleep-promoting amino acid is a good excuse for eating snacks, it should be consumed in moderation, or it could upset the digestive system and also lead to weight gain. Keep the portions small.
Green Tea
Green tea contains theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and sleep. Make sure it’s decaffeinated green tea if sipped at bedtime.
Yogurt & Kale
Foods with high levels of calcium are known to make it easier to sleep. Encourage your loved one to eat foods like these, not only to ensure optimum sleep but also to live longer, healthier, and smarter.
These foods can help your loved one sleep better and enhance his or her overall wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care service. Richmond, VA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.