December News: Sleep Smarts

Sleep Smarts!

Does the need for sleep decline with age? No. Research shows sleep needs remain constant throughout adulthood. So, what’s keeping seniors awake? Changes in the patterns of our sleep, called “sleep architecture” occur with age and this may contribute to sleep problems. Older adults, also report being less satisfied with sleep and more tired during the day.

 Studies on the sleep habits of older Americans show an increase in:

  • The time it takes to fall asleep
  • An overall decline in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep
  • An increase in waking up during the night

Insomnia

Older adults also experience insomnia. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 44% of older persons experience one or more nighttime symptoms of insomnia several nights per week. Insomnia may be chronic (lasting over one month) or acute (lasting a few days or weeks).

What's keeping you awake?

What’s keeping you awake?

Insomnia can take a toll on a person’s health. Insomnia can cause excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and increased risk for accidents and illness as well as significantly reduced quality of life. Behavioral therapies and prescription medications singly or in combination are considered effective means to treat insomnia.

Research shows that sleep problems can sometimes be attributed to physical and psychiatric illnesses and the medications used to treat them. Or it may simply be too much caffeine or napping during the day. Don’t be afraid to tell your doctor about your sleep problems!

Stress-Free Holiday Time!

The holidays are an extra busy time of year filled with baking, shopping, and visiting with friends and family. Although these are all very fun activities, for seniors these activities bring additional stress. Here are some helpful tips to reduce holiday stress.

Make Holiday Activities Fun                                             

If you are cooking for a group, ask guests and family members to bring a dish. This will take the stress off you. If you plan to do some baking, decorating or gift-wrapping invite a couple of friends you know to do this together with you. It makes the work more fun.

Family and friends can help make holiday activities fun and meaningful!

Family and friends can help make holiday activities fun and meaningful!

Make Transport a No-Brainer

Often, seniors are not able to drive themselves to holiday events, or the increased traffic and inclement weather can be overwhelming. Or, a big stress is shopping. If you need to shop or go to the post office, consider getting a driver to get you to and from destinations. With advanced arrangements, there’s peace of mind.

Inclement weather is a challenge for seniors. Don't drive. Get a driver.

Inclement weather is a challenge for seniors. Don’t drive. Get a driver.

AW Health Care can help you prepare meals, bake, shop, write cards, wrap gifts, go to the post office or find a driver for holiday events. It’s easy and worth it! In Missouri, call (314) 726-5600. In Illinois, call (618) 344-8800.Be Healthy During the Holidays

http://www.awhealthcare.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Alarm-Clock.jpegKeep up with your exercise and healthy eating. Appreciate the good things you have now. If you are feeling low due to the loss of a loved one, accept these feelings and get help if you need it. AW Health Care can help… Missouri: (314) 726-5600 or Illinois: (618) 344-8800.

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