One of the problems that the elderly often complain about is difficulty sleeping. This sleep disorder can arise in various forms, either having difficulty sleeping, often waking up in the middle of the night, or waking up in the early hours of the morning.
These problems can have an impact on the quality of life of the elderly. Elderly who experience difficulty sleeping tend to feel exhausted throughout the day, decreased energy levels, concentration disorders, and increased the risk of certain diseases.
Causes Of Difficulty Sleep In The Elderly
There are many factors that can cause sleep disturbances in the elderly, ranging from physical, psychological, and environmental changes. Here are some of the main causes of difficulty sleeping in the elderly:
Changes in sleep patterns due to aging
As people age, everyone's sleep patterns change. This natural change causes a decrease in the duration of sleep and quality of sleep.
This is due to a change in sleep cycles, where good sleep (deep sleep) decreased, and light sleep increase. As a result, it is easier for the elderly to wake up at midnight and sleep less well.
In addition, the body's biological clock has also changed. The elderly tend to fall asleep early at night and wake up early in the morning.
Health conditions that cause difficulty sleeping
Most of the elderly have certain health conditions, such as joint inflammation, back pain, nerve damage, respiratory problems, and digestive problems. This health condition that is motivated can affect their ability to sleep well.
Also read: Getting To Know Sundown Syndrome At An Elderly Age
Consumption of certain drugs
Some the elderly need to take more medicine to treat the health conditions experienced. Some types of drugs may have side effects such as sleep patterns disorders, or are diuretic, making them urinate more often at night.
Psychological and emotional factors
Mental health plays an important role in the sleep patterns of the elderly. Elderly who are facing major changes in life, such as losing a partner, feeling lonely, retiring, and unable to do their preferred hobby, can be at risk of experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress. These restless thoughts and uncomfortable feelings often cause difficulty sleeping and stay awake throughout the night.
Reduced physical activity
Many elderly people are no longer physically active, either because of difficulties in moving or lack of routine activities. The lack of physical activity can cause the body to not get tired enough to sleep well.
Also read: Benefits Of Pound Fit For The Elderly And Tips Following It
Uncomfortable sleeping environment
Uncomfortable bedroom conditions such as room temperature that is too hot, too cold, or noise from outside can affect the elderly's sleep. To help the elderly get better sleep, it is necessary to create a comfortable sleep environment.
Set the room temperature in the ideal range, between 18-22 degrees Celsius. Put up a thick curtain or close the window to minimize noise disturbances. Choose the right lights to create a better sleep atmosphere.
To solve sleep problems in the elderly, it is important to identify the main cause. If needed, invite them to consult a doctor, so that doctors can provide appropriate and effective treatment recommendations. You can also take advantage of Ai Care's health consultation services by downloading them through App Store or Play Store.
Want to know information about other diseases? Check here, well!
