Sleeping problems are common among seniors. Medication side effects, health conditions, loneliness, and many other factors contribute to sleep disorders that can impact seniors. If your mom or dad has chronic trouble sleeping. having elder care may help.

Elder care can help seniors with everything from medication reminders to household chores. Often seniors feel better and have an easier time relaxing when someone is in the home with them. A care provider that visits daily can make your senior mom or dad feel safer and more comfortable at home.

Some other things that may help your senior parent get better quality sleep at night are:

Create a Calming Sleep Environment

The first step to better sleep is creating a calm and comfortable bedroom. Make sure the room is quiet, dark, and cool. Seniors may be sensitive to noise, so using earplugs or a white noise machine can help.

A comfortable mattress and soft pillows also make a big difference. Make sure the bedding is cozy, and the room temperature is right for them. A peaceful environment encourages deeper, more restful sleep.

Talk to your mom or dad about changes that you can make to their bedroom that might make it more comfortable to them. If your mom or dad recently lost their spouse you may suggest that they move into a different bedroom. A smaller bedroom may help them feel more cozy and safe.

Stick to a Regular Sleep Schedule

Routine is key for seniors when it comes to sleep. Encourage your senior parent to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. A consistent schedule helps regulate the body’s internal clock. It can also make it easier for them to fall asleep and wake up feeling rested.

Your mom or dad should avoid long naps during the day, because long naps can interfere with nighttime sleep. If they do get sleep during the day a short 20-30 minute nap is ok.

Try Relaxing Bedtime Activities

Your senior parent can wind down before bed with calming activities. Reading, listening to soft music, or practicing gentle breathing exercises can signal to their body that it’s time to relax.

Your mom or dad should avoid stimulating activities like watching TV, using a smartphone, or being on a computer close to bedtime. These activities can keep the mind active and make it harder to fall asleep.

Pay Attention to Diet and Hydration

What your parent eats and drinks can affect their sleep. Caffeine and sugar should be avoided in the afternoon and evening. These stimulants can keep them awake. Instead, offer a light snack that promotes sleep, such as a banana, some nuts, or warm milk.

It’s also important to stay hydrated, but make sure they don’t drink too much water close to bedtime to avoid frequent trips to the bathroom.

Encourage Physical Activity

Daily physical activity helps seniors sleep better at night. Encourage your parent to get some exercise during the day, even if it’s just simple movement.

Chair yoga, stretching, occupational therapy exercises, or gentle games like balloon tossing all can help your mom or dad sleep later on. Even gentle movement earlier in the day can lead to deeper sleep later on.

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Denton, TX, please contact the caring staff at Ray of Sunshine Senior Care today! (940) 310-3105

Ray of Sunshine Senior Care Provides Senior Home Care Services in Denton, Lewisville, Gainesville, Keller, Grapevine, Coppell, Carrollton, Southlake, Valley View, Aubrey, Frisco, Corinth, Argyle, Roanoke, Counties: Denton County, Tarrant County, Collin County, and surrounding areas.

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Cynthia Ferris

Owner at Ray of Sunshine Senior Care

Cynthia has a long history of serving others. As she and her husband traveled the US and overseas while he served in the military, Cynthia worked in a variety of public service positions with city governments and non-profits. After her husband retired, they returned to the DFW area to be closer to family. As an only child, Cynthia was preparing to help care for her aging parents but was stunned when both parents were diagnosed with cancer.

At the same time, she and her husband were faced with the care of his father on the west coast which presented the unique challenges of long-distance care. These events led to a crash course in the senior care industry and her unending dedication to helping seniors and families in similar circumstances. When not working Cynthia enjoys cooking, gardening and traveling with a focus on visiting State and National Parks.

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