Did You Wake Up Rested?

Due to much research on the subject, we now know it is not only important to get a good night’s sleep but it is essential to our overall good health and wellbeing.  Sleeping balances our active life with the time our body needs to renew and rejuvenate. However, unfortunately with age comes a variety of health conditions that can interfere with getting a good night’s sleep. 

Experts explain that the elderly are more likely to “suffer from chronic insomnia characterized by difficulty maintaining sleep than difficulty initiating sleep.”  Suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) or sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and sleep apnea are more frequently seen in older adults and can result in poor sleep patterns.  We also know that bright sunlight helps to regulate melatonin (a hormone that promotes sleep) and sleep-wake cycles, and many elderly people do not spend enough time out-of-doors. 

Not getting an adequate amount of sleep each night can impact vitality and resilience that seniors need to age better.  In fact, insomnia is associated with poor health and mortality.  Lack of sleep can also increase older adults’ risk of a fall, and some studies suggest a history of sleep deprivation can increase the risk of cognitive problems.  Routinely napping during the day is another problem that interferes with a good night’s sleep. 

Tips for getting a better night’s sleep include avoiding eating and working late.  Experts say to turn off the TV and other smart devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime as the blue light emitted from electronics prevents the body from releasing melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep.  Follow a set bedtime, and right before you plan to go to sleep do some deep breathing and light stretching.  It is recommended we try to get eight to nine hours of sleep on most nights.  

MorningStar at Arcadia senior community includes 80 suites for assisted living and 30 secure suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care for residents with memory impairment.  Our spacious suites are available in a variety of well-designed floor plans and have details reflective of those found throughout our beautifully appointed community.    Visit our website to learn what sets us apart from other senior living Phoenix offers and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Arcadia, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities, we encourage you to learn more about the finest senior living Phoenix has to offer.

Source: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2516307/