The senior years often bring changes in sleep patterns and overall health that may alter the ability to feel rested. For many seniors, a nap is the perfect solution for ending daytime fatigue. However, napping can also ruin the ability to sleep at night if it’s done incorrectly. The following napping dos and don’ts can help your senior loved one get some sleep without interfering with his or her bedtime.
Do: Watch for Serious Sleep Disorders
Several health conditions generate symptoms that affect sleep. For example, daytime drowsiness could be a side effect of medication. Depression can also cause seniors to feel tired during the day or face difficulty sleeping at night.
Insomnia may also be related to hormonal changes that occur with age, and waking up several times during the night to use the restroom could be caused by an underlying health condition. If your loved one suddenly starts napping during the day, talk to his or her physician to identify any underlying physical or emotional causes that should be addressed.
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
Don’t: Nap Too Late in the Day
Many older adults sense a drop in their energy levels as the day goes on. While it may seem like a good idea to take a nap after dinner, it could adversely impact the ability to sleep later that night.
Your loved one should try to take naps in the early afternoon. Typically, it’s easier to fall asleep after lunch, and taking a nap before the late afternoon provides enough time to get sleepy again before bedtime.
Taking naps is just one of the many ways older adults can boost their health and wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. 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.
Do: Set an Alarm
Power naps are important when seniors want to get some rest during the day. The average adult only needs about 10 to 30 minutes of napping time to feel well rested.
To avoid oversleeping, your loved one should set an alarm. When the alarm goes off, your loved one should get up even if he or she didn’t fully fall asleep. Over time, your loved one’s body will begin to recognize this cue as time to fall asleep, and it will be easier to get a full nap in the future.
Don’t: Sleep with the TV On
Your loved one should try to avoid dozing off in front of the television or while listening to the radio. Instead, your parent should treat naptime similar to normal bedtime by creating a peaceful environment that promotes better rest. Creating a calm environment prevents noise from waking your loved one up too early, and he or she will wake up feeling more rested.
Do: Allow Plenty of Time to Wake Up
After a nap, your loved one should never try to get up and rush to an appointment, since he or she may not be fully alert to drive. Plan your loved one’s naps so he or she has at least 15 to 20 minutes to wake up completely. Allowing plenty of time to wake up prevents accidents that could occur if your loved one attempts to rush daily routines while still half asleep.
Difficulty falling asleep is just one of the many issues seniors are prone to. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Richmond, VA, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate professional care for your loved one. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.