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Elders Sleeping Problems
Aging is the natural process that involves the gradual reduction of the body organs and its functions.Even as children are growing up, their bodies are aging.At a later time, the aging process intensifies especially between 60 to 75 years. In this regard, sleeping is the main problem.
Sleep becomes elusive
With aging, there is less slow-wave, deeper sleep. Therefore, older persons are more likely to be awakened by noises in the environment. A number of health problems can make sleeping difficult:-
Pain
People with arthritis may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep because of painful joints. If you suffer from arthritis, ask your doctor about treatment for the pain. In that same category, back pain, headaches, muscular aches, leg cramps and sinus pain were also cited by those who had night time pain.
Heartburn
Nighttime heartburn is marked by wheezing and chronic cough, with repeated awakenings and daytime sleepiness. Raising the head of the bed may alleviate symptoms, or medication may be needed.
Respiratory ailments
Asthma, chronic interstitial lung disease, and various neuromuscular diseases can cause awakening. One study found that 74% of people with asthma were awakened from sleep in any given week.
Menopause
The hot flashes and breathing changes associated with menopause appear to disturb sleep. In one study, hot flashes were associated with arousals once every eight minutes on average.
Medication
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if your medications can cause insomnia or drowsiness, and if changing the time the drug is taken could help overcome these problems.
Chemical changes
Production of the hormone melatonin, which influences sleep and wakefulness, decreases with age, just at the time when the likelihood of sleep disorders increases.
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