There are 74.9 million Baby Boomers, which represents almost 40% of the nation’s population. As this group starts to age, senior living communities are adapting to the cruise-ship mentality of this generation. Here are some of the ways:
1). FLEXIBLE DINING SERVICES
Many senior living communities now offer flexible dining hours, a variety of dining venues (casual to formal), chef presentations and vouchers which can be used to purchase meals, liquor and even groceries. Menus are heart healthy and many offer gluten-free choices, freshly grown herbs, organic vegetables, grass-fed meat, free range poultry and sustainable seafood. “To go” menus are available for those who desire to dine in the comfort of their own residence.
2). ABUNDANT FITNESS / WELLNESS PROGRAMS
Baby boomers want to stay active and healthy. Tai chi, yoga, Zumba and even Pilates are now norms at some senior living communities. Fully-equipped fitness centers with personal trainers, lap pools, tennis, pickleball, bocce and even golf are often available. On-site spa services are common which includes a variety of massages, facials and pedicures.
3). LARGER APARTMENTS / UPSCALE FINISHES
Today’s senior community residences are no longer designed for a single elderly individual, but instead are more suited for couples who want large open floor plans with plenty of closets and ambient lighting. Kitchens have modern stainless steel appliances, granite or quartz counter tops and upscale cabinetry. Bathrooms are luxurious but also have safety devices so residents can age in place.
4). CONNECTIVITY
Baby boomers are internet savvy and spend many hours of their day on the computer. Senior living communities now offer internet cafés and personal residences are wi-fi compatible. Some communities actually provide a tablet to each resident so they can reserve seats for entertainment or see the daily menu.
5). CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASSES
Continuing Education is huge for today’s baby boomers. Senior living communities offer programs either online or live with university professors. There are even some senior living communities located on campuses of major universities so residents can attend classes to further their education.
6). ART INSTRUCTION / CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Access to creative types of programs is important to today’s Baby Boomer. Many senior living communities offer painting classes, photography, pottery and wood working. Cultural programs either on-site or nearby are frequently available to the residents of the community. Investment clubs, wine tastings, book groups and card playing are enjoyed.
7). HIGHER ENTRANCE FEE REFUNDS
Senior living communities now offer entrance fee refunds as much as 90% to provide residents the flexibility to move out, leave to their estate or to a charity of their choice. Baby Boomers are philanthropic and leaving a legacy is important to them.
8). VOLUNTEERISM
Baby boomers want to remain active in the local community through their place of worship or local charity. Senior living communities embrace these folks by hosting on-site events, providing transportation and contributing to many local organizations. Residents can also volunteer to serve on several resident council committees or be a welcome ambassador to new residents moving in.
9). MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING
No longer being concerned with home maintenance and repairs allows today’s residents more freedom to enjoy their life and pursue traveling, taking up a new hobby or perfecting an existing one. Not wasting time waiting for a repairman or being concerned about the cost of the repair are major benefits of living in a senior living community.
10). ACCESS TO ON-SITE HEALTH CARE
Being proactive and pre-planning is in the DNA of a baby Boomer. Knowing that there is health care available provides peace of mind. Baby Boomers do not want to be a burden their spouse or to their children as they age. Some senior living communities even offer on-site physicians services which adds another level of convenience.
In summary, Baby Boomers are reshaping senior housing. The age wave is here and these changes to the senior housing industry will have long lasting effects.
To find a senior living community that meets your needs and preferences, call 239-595-0207 or visit our website at www.seniorhousingsolutions.net
The Seniors Blue Book is Southwest Florida’s most comprehensive and reliable source to find and compare Senior Housing such as Retirement Communities, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing. Health at Home options like Home Health Care, Non-Medical Home Care, Hospice and Senior Resources.
Mission Statement
The mission of The Seniors Blue Book and SeniorsBlueBook.com is to provide seniors, caregivers and senior professionals a comprehensive source of services, senior housing options, resources and information that enrich the lives of our elder population while affording those businesses and individuals serving that population a unique medium to present their products and services
Our History
The Seniors Blue Book was first published in 1983 by Clifton Chadwick. At the time Cliff was 69 years old and enjoying his retirement when his wife experienced a debilitating stroke. Cliff became her full-time caregiver, a job he cherished, but he was distraught that there was no place to turn for a comprehensive list of resources and services. It was from the love for his wife and commitment to his community that the Seniors Blue Book was born.
It wasn’t until fifteen years later in 1997, when Cliff was 83 years old, that Gil & Marion Hersch crossed paths with Cliff and the Seniors Blue Book. With a history in publishing and Gerontology Gil & Marion were very impressed with the publication Cliff had nurtured along and wanted to become a part of it. After Cliff was certain that Gil & Marion had enough integrity to take over the guide and keep intact the many free listings and helpful editorials that he had published, Gil & Marion took over the Seniors Blue Book and soon joined forces with their children Oliver & Samantha. SeniorsBlueBook.com was launched soon after their arrival in 1999.
Today
In 2009 Gil & Marion went into “semi-retirement” and the majority of the day-to-day operations are now controlled by Oliver. The Seniors Blue Book and SeniorsBlueBook.com has grown from a small 40 page publication serving one market into serving 27 markets throughout the United States. Our largest guide, South Metro Denver, is now over 300 pages. We print over 2.7 Million Senior Blue Books annually and SeniorsBlueBook.com receives over 500K page views annually. The Hersch family truly appreciates and values the opportunity we have had to work with and help the many communities we serve. We are looking forward to continued growth and providing this incredibly valuable resource to more communities in the future.
Senior & Caregiver’s Resource of Choice
The Seniors Blue Book and SeniorsBlueBook.com is the resource of choice in every market we serve. We are committed to providing the most complete and comprehensive resources available and are constantly working on compiling new information, expanding our distribution and enhancing existing categories. We list over 70 categories of information, most of which are free resources that support the community. We understand that there are many valuable services available, whether they are paying advertisers or not, and we are proud to support the communities we serve by listing all options available to our readers, not solely based on advertising. Seniors and Caregivers also love our senior activities calendar where they can find out about local events and activities, many of which are free, all of which are worthwhile.
Professionals Resource of Choice
The Seniors Blue Book understands the value of having a strong relationship with the professionals that serve the senior population, particularly with Case Managers, Social Workers and Discharge Planners. We now publish a special printing, just for Case Managers, Social Workers and Discharge Planners, that not only lists the comprehensive comparison grid information they have become accustomed to, but also lists address and fax #’s to help make their jobs a little easier. Additionally we offer a professionals networking calendar and a job opportunities page as well.
Do you think I will qualify to live in a senior housing community if I have a pre-existing condition?
Without knowing the specifics of your condition, it is hard to say. There are many senior housing communities that have medical criteria to be accepted for residency. The medical review process could include reviewing your medical history and a one-on-one meeting with a representative from the community’s medical staff. Someone who has a pre-existing condition may represent a higher than normal risk of requiring care and may not be accepted. Cognitive types of medical issues or progressive medical diseases are red flags and may disqualify you, so it is important to plan ahead. It is important to ask questions early in the process, so you don’t sell your home only to find out you did not meet the qualifications for residency. Medical acceptance varies from community to community, so you might find one that is more willing to accept you than another. If you are considering moving to an assisted living facility, the State of Florida requires a form called an 1823 to be completed by your doctor to verify that this is the proper living arrangement for you and to document the care levels you require.
What is a Life Plan community?
A Life Plan Community is a replacement name for the category known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). The name change from a CCRC to Life Plan Community switches the emphasis from passive care to active living and planning – a shift that appeals to younger, healthier senior adults.
A Life Plan Community is a residential community for people 62 and older that provides a variety of living options, along with services, amenities, and a continuum of care designed to address the changing needs of residents as they age. In exchange for these services, amenities and care, residents typically pay an upfront entrance fee and a monthly fee.
We are independent and not sure if we are ready to move to a retirement community. What are our options?
Basically, you have four options to consider. First, you can do nothing. You can continue to stay where you are living and wait for something to occur to force you into a decision. This option may seem to be the easiest but has many implications that you need to think through. By waiting for a medical incident or a change in health, you run the risk of not being medically accepted. You also place a great deal of responsibility on your spouse, your family, and your friends to provide daily assistance. Managing care at home is not easy and can be quite costly. Keep in mind that thinking nothing will change is not being realistic.
The second option is to find a community geared specifically for independent living. There are some rental apartment communities in this area that provide a “maintenance free” lifestyle. This might be a good first step to lessen the responsibilities of homeownership.
The third option is to move to independent living in a senior living community. Most people who choose this option claim it was the best decision they have ever made. They have peace of mind knowing they have made a plan for the future should they require care and services as they age, all the while enjoying a vibrant lifestyle.
The last option is to move in with your children. This is probably not the best solution; but, for some this may be the only option due to limited finances.
I am not a social person, are there senior living communities that will fit my lifestyle.
The lifestyle at many senior living communities is geared toward providing social opportunities for residents to enjoy. Most offer a wide variety of activities such as exercise classes, lectures, wine tastings and cocktail parties, art classes, and book discussions. However, choosing to participate is totally up to you. If privacy is a concern, ask questions up front to see how the community will respect your privacy.
Are there any tax implications to living at a senior living community?
Yes. It is wise to consult with your tax advisor for the specifics to your situation. If you live in a Life Plan Community (CCRC), a portion of your entrance fee and monthly fee may be considered a medical expense. This percentage varies from community to community and year to year. If you live in an assisted living or skilled nursing residence, your care may also be able to be deducted as a medical expense.
We have a small dog, are there senior communities that are pet friendly?
Pets are important in people’s lives. There are studies that show that people live longer and healthier with a pet. Some communities will permit pets while others will not. There are also communities that have designated “pet friendly” residential buildings within their campus. Size limits and number of pets allowed also exists at many communities as well as rules regarding acquiring a new pet after you move in. It is important to note that if you move with a pet, you must be able to properly care for your pet. Most communities have a pet policy, and your pet must be well behaved and not be a nuisance or threat to other residents or to the staff.
Are there any senior housing communities in our area for low income seniors?
Low income housing in SWFL is a major problem facing many seniors in our area. Unfortunately, many times people will need to relocate out
of the area to find affordable housing. It is advisable to fully evaluate all your personal resources prior to visiting senior communities and identify any outside assistance that may be available to you. This may include Veteran’s benefits and even unused life insurance benefits. Speak with your family and your church to see if they can offer any assistance.
What are some other senior housing researching tips?
Tour the health care facility. One of the main reasons you are considering a move to a senior housing community is to have the peace of mind of future care should you need it. Take the time to tour the health care facility to see for yourself if the residents are receiving good care and if the environment is clean and well-maintained. Speak with family members, residents, and staff to learn as much as you can about quality of care. It is also important to learn what type of care the facility is licensed to provide, and what charges are associated with that care. As a senior housing advisor, we research state violations, license types, and annual state survey results. We will join you on your tour to ask questions you may not know to ask.
Review policies and procedures. Understanding the Do’s and Don’ts of a specific senior housing community before you move should be a priority to you. The more you know up front, the better you will know if this community is the right fit for you.
Sample the lifestyle. Finding a senior housing community where you can live with like-minded people is very important. If possible, enjoying a dinner at a community or joining in on a social activity before you move in will give you chance to meet people and see you want these people as your neighbors and friends. There isn’t a “one size fits all” senior living community, so being able to experience the lifestyle will help you see if this community is right for you.
Good health is directly connected to good sleep, and poor quality of sleep and not enough sleep can have negative effects on health. This is especially true for seniors who commonly experience sleep disorders, take medications, and have chronic health issues like heart disease and diabetes, among other conditions — all of which can impact sleep.
According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), more than 44 percent of seniors experience one or more symptoms of insomnia at least a few nights during the week. The NSF also reports that snoring alone is a common sleep disruption for more than 90 million American adults.
Sleep patterns change with age, and are also referred to as “sleep architecture.” Sleep patterns for the elderly cause sleep to become lighter with more frequent waking up during the night.
One study reports that seniors make the following complaints about sleep:
Increase in time to fall asleep
Less time spent asleep
Increase in number of awakenings
Too much time spent in bed
Less satisfied with nighttime sleep
Significant increase in daytime sleepiness
Napping more often and longer
This guide was developed to provide helpful information and tips focused on aging and sleep for seniors. Topics that we will explore include:
The importance of sleep for seniors
How sleep changes as you age
Common senior sleep problems
Top sleep tips
Tips for creating a sleep routine
Additional sleep resources
Why is sleep important for seniors?
Sleep requirements are different from person to person, and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends 7-9 hours of sleep for adults over 61-64 years old and 7-8 hours of sleep for adults 65 and older.
Both the amount of sleep and quality of sleep are important factors that contribute to overall health and well-being, including memory, mood, and weight. Healthy sleep also helps reduce the risk of accidents and allows the body to rest and heal.
Insufficient sleep can cause weight gain, and good sleep helps people maintain a healthy weight. Poor sleep is also known to cause a lack of motivation to be active. Difficulty falling asleep and sleep disturbances can prevent a good night’s sleep, which can cause more accidents or falls, mood problems, depression, depression, and anxiety.
Signs of poor sleep include an increase in the time it takes to fall asleep, less REM sleep and slow-wave sleep, and frequent waking up during the night.
Sleep can also affect memory, and the National Institute of Health reports that this connection may help explain why seniors are often forgetful. As people age, the brain deteriorates, and changes in sleep patterns result in less slow-wave activity, which is important for memory performance. As sleep deteriorates with age, memories are more difficult for the brain to store during nighttime sleep.
How sleep changes as you age
Physical changes occur as people age, and have a direct impact on sleep. Some sleep issues are directly related to aging, while other issues seniors experience are not age specific, and could be experienced by people in other age groups.
In addition, sleep needs change based on gender, genetics, a person’s internal clock, quality of sleep, and recent lack of sleep, according to WebMD.
Changes in sleep related to aging:
Wanting to go to bed earlier and get up earlier
Spending more time in bed to achieve a full night of sleep because it takes longer to fall asleep and waking up disrupts sleep
Change in sleep architecture that causes lighter sleep with more frequent waking up
Memory loss due to decrease in the amount of slow-wave restorative sleep
Trouble sleeping because of symptoms of chronic health conditions or medications
Awareness of being awake
An abrupt change between sleeping and waking up
Changes in sleep not related to aging:
Having trouble falling asleep
Having trouble staying asleep
Going to bed later because of daytime napping
Staying awake due to worry and anxiety
Staying up later because the bed or bedroom is used for more than sleep (example: watching TV, being active with personal devices like cell phones, tablets, or computers)
Having trouble focusing because of insufficient sleep
Trouble with comfortable sleep due to hormones or pregnancy
Common sleep problems for seniors
Sleep problems are a reality for 40 percent of the elderly, and can include everything from frequent waking up during the night, to daytime fatigue, to irritability and light sleep. Many of the sleep problems are due to aging and the changes that occur in sleep patterns — causing more frequent waking up and lighter sleep.
Many times, seniors experience extreme daytime fatigue which can prevent them from participating in normal activities. With much of the elderly population reporting poor sleep, a relatively small percentage of seniors have diagnosed sleep disorders and are prescribed sleep medications.
In this part of the guide, we will explore the different kinds of senior sleep disorders and problems, plus possible treatments.
Insomnia
Insomnia is defined as difficulty staying asleep or falling asleep. People with insomnia have symptoms including poor moods, fatigue, and low energy, and also have a hard time concentrating and performing regular daily tasks. The effects of insomnia can take a toll on overall health and well-being.
The National Sleep Foundation reported that a poll showed that nearly 40 percent of older people were more likely to wake up a lot at night as compared to younger people.
Medications that aid sleep are either non-prescription or prescription medications. Prescriptions drugs include benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepines, and antihistamines. Before seeking treatment for insomnia, it is recommended that seniors consult with their doctor. Medications prescribed or recommended may vary based on symptoms of insomnia.
Alternative treatments can include herbal supplements like melatonin, valerian root, or chamomile; physical exercise; acupuncture, yoga, massage, and relaxation techniques.
Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing stops and begins again during sleep. This stopping and starting can sometimes occur hundreds of times each night. Sleep apnea can be caused by blockage of the throat airway or because the brain fails to signal muscles to breathe. Sleep apnea can result in a decrease in the amount of oxygen a person gets. Symptoms include snoring, gasping for air, headaches, and daytime sleepiness, among others.
Sleep studies monitor sleep by observing heart rate, sleep state, eye movement, muscle activity, oxygen levels, and airflow, among other functions. These studies are conducted to help diagnose sleep apnea and inform the treatment plan and severity of the disorder.
Continuous positive airway pressure device, also known as CPAP, is a mask designed to fit over the nose and mouth. It provides a gentle airflow to promote the airway to stay open during the night and sleep. This treatment is highly recommended and effective.
Lifestyle changes are also recommended for those with sleep apnea. Losing weight, quitting smoking, changing sleep positions, and avoiding alcohol may help reduce sleep apnea.
Dental devices and surgeries are also options for sleepers with sleep apnea. These appliances help restructure the positioning of the tongue and lower jaw to promote more consistent and open airflow. There are also some surgeries that can be performed to remove tissue in the airway, for example.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological sleep condition that causes a person to fall asleep very suddenly at any time without advance notice, as well as excessive daytime sleepiness. This could happen while performing regular activities, like working or driving, and can be dangerous. This condition launches sleepers into deep REM state sleep (dream-stage sleep) in about 10 minutes, as compared to the regular 90 minute timeframe it takes to reach REM sleep. A less severe condition related to narcolepsy is hypersomnia, which causes chronic sleepiness even if a sleeper has gotten enough sleep the night before.
Although narcolepsy cannot be cured, there are some treatment options:
Medications like amphetamine-like stimulants that help keep the body awake; antidepressant drugs; and a drug called Xyrem that is designed to promote better sleep at night to reduce sleepiness during the day.
Lifestyle adjustments can help people with narcolepsy, and include avoiding alcohol, nicotine and caffeine; and implementing a regular sleep routine including a consistent nap schedule, exercise, and healthy eating.
Support and support groups are also important for those who suffer from narcolepsy. Talking to people you know about your condition is key to your safety.
Restless leg syndrome
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a disorder that causes people to have an uncontrollable urge to move their legs during rest. The condition interferes with sleep, and can also occur when people are sitting for long periods of time. In addition to the urge to move the legs, people also experience a crawling or itching feeling in their legs.
This study reports that RLS increases with age, and older adults experience the condition more — with rates between 9 to 20 percent. In addition, women are affected by the condition twice as often as men.
Similar to RLS, periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is when movements are involuntary and cause jerking or twitching, and tightening or flexing of muscles. This disorder also increases with age.
Medications for RLS include drugs that increase dopamine in the brain, affect calcium channels, opioids or narcotics, muscle relaxants, and sleep aids.
Lifestyle changes also help treat RLS. Using heat or cold packs and taking warm baths and massaging legs may help soothe the muscles and reduce sensation. Relaxation activities like yoga or meditation can help relax seniors before bedtime. A good sleep routine with consistent bedtime and a healthy sleep environment is important for RLS. Exercise can help relieve symptoms, and people with RLS should avoid caffeine.
Snoring
Snoring is a harsh or hoarse sound that happens when breathing is obstructed or strained, and can cause sleep to be disturbed. It happens when the tissue in the throat vibrates as air flows by, causing an annoying sound. Snoring can also mean a person may have a more serious disorder, and can cause daytime sleepiness; trouble with concentration; mood or behavior issues, like anger; and an increased risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart conditions.
Lifestyle changes include losing weight to promote easier airflow in the throat; sleep position training; proper allergy treatment; and avoiding alcohol.
Surgery is also an option, and is performed on the back of the throat and roof of the mouth, or even the nose.
Dental devices are usually constructed by dentists who are experts in treating sleep apnea and snoring. There are also appliances called nasal dilators.
Continuous positive airway pressure device, also known as CPAP, is a mask designed to fit over the nose and mouth. It provides a gentle airflow to promote the airway to stay open during the night and sleep. This treatment is highly recommended and effective, and prevents the airway from collapsing.
Excessive sleepiness
Excessive sleepiness is not a disorder, but a symptom that can be caused by a number of things. The most common cause is unhealthy sleep habits. These include:
Insufficient or not enough sleep
An irregular sleep schedule
Sleep disorders
Medications
Other medical conditions
People with excessive sleepiness may feel fatigued, irritable, moody, and have trouble concentrating.
This sleep problem can have negative effects on quality of life, and can prevent people from participating in regular activities. One study reports the following factors are linked to this disorder:
Pain or physical discomfort
Wheezing at night
Medication use
Male gender
Apnea
Percent of time in REM sleep
Depression
The frailty syndrome
Diabetes
Some treatments include:
Lifestyle changes include a healthy sleep routine and environment and stress management.
Continuous positive airway pressure device, also known as CPAP, is a positive approach for those with sleep apnea who experience excessive sleepiness. The mask is designed to fit over the nose and mouth and provides a gentle airflow to promote the airway to stay open during the night and sleep. This treatment is highly recommended and effective, and prevents the airway from collapsing.
Medications that promote wakefulness and improved sleep may be used, and can include stimulants.
Common causes
Common causes of senior sleep problems and disorders include the following:
Lack of exercise
If seniors don’t move very much and are mostly sedentary, it is common for them to feel wakeful instead of sleepy. Regular physical activity during the daytime expends energy and can help promote good sleep.
Sleep disorders
Sleep disorders like RLS, snoring, or sleep apnea are more common for seniors.
Lack of sunlight
The sun can help seniors differentiate day and night and also helps regulate melatonin. Older adults can use a light therapy box, keep shades open during the day, or spend time outside.
Chronic pain
Chronic pain, including osteoarthritis, may keep seniors up at night due to the nagging nature of the ongoing pain.
Menopause
Women may experience hot flashes and sweating at night that can interrupt sleep and cause sleep problems.
Neurological disorders
Disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s contribute to sleep problems, and insomnia specifically is very common among seniors with these conditions.
Medications
Side effects of some medications can impact sleep for seniors.
Poor sleep routine
Inconsistent sleep routines and an unhealthy sleep environment can cause sleep problems. Healthy sleep routines include consistent bedtimes, no daytime napping, and the right mattress, among others.
Daytime napping
Napping during the day can prevent seniors from feeling sleepy before bed, and can contribute to sleep problems.
Medical conditions
Heart and lung conditions, especially, can affect breathing, which can have a negative impact on sleep. These also include heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Urinary problems
Getting up to go to the bathroom at night can disrupt sleep for seniors. This can be caused by drinking too much water too late at night, or other conditions like an enlarged prostate or an overactive bladder.
Reflux problems
Heartburn symptoms can keep elderly people up at night, and can be caused by diet and eating big meals too late at night.
Mental health
Extreme worry, anxiety, or depression can prevent seniors from sleeping and may cause sleep disturbances.
How to set up a sleep routine
Creating a healthy sleep routine is key for seniors in getting quality sleep. A sleep routine includes everything from your daily diet and exercise, to your mattress and pillow, to your bedtime.
Specific tips for creating a healthy sleep routine include:
Select the right pillow and mattress for you
Your pillow, mattress, and bedding are key in creating a healthy and comfortable environment for sleep, and foundational to your sleep routine. See our guides for details on the best kind of mattress for each kind of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination), and check our mattress reviews to learn more about different mattresses on the market.
Create and keep a sleep diary
A sleep diary will help you document your daily habits, and can help you track your bedtime routine so you can remember and evaluate when you wake up, dream, or when your sleep is disturbed. The National Sleep Foundation offers a free diary template online.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet
For some seniors, a poor diet may be linked to a loss of taste, loss of smell, dental problems, depression, or a decrease in appetite. A healthy diet is essential in getting the right amount of vitamins and nutrients, and impacts overall well-being and sleep. Seniors may want to consider supplementing with liquid nutrition and vitamins.
Physical activity is important for all people, and especially seniors. Staying physically active can not only prevent some chronic health conditions, but it also helps seniors reduce weight gain, which can lead to several senior sleep problems. Exercise also helps seniors burn energy and feel more tired at the end of the day.
Avoid nicotine and caffeine
Stimulants like nicotine and caffeine impede sleep, keeping seniors awake. Both nicotine and caffeine can keep people up at night in addition to causing insomnia, less sleep, and withdrawal. Cutting back or avoiding both stimulants all together will help promote healthier sleep.
Reduce alcohol consumption
Avoiding alcohol or limiting it to no more than half a glass is recommended to not interfere with healthy sleep. The old concept of having a “night cap” before bed does not result in better sleep, rather sleep becomes more disrupted because sleep patterns are affected by alcohol.
Avoid daytime napping
Daytime napping may prevent seniors from getting to bed and getting a good night’s rest. Naps can increase the symptoms linked to insomnia, which can cause seniors to be irritable and have a difficult time concentrating.
Create a safe space if you experience sleep disruptions
If sleep disruptions affect you, it’s important to ensure your sleep environment is safe in the event that you wake up and get out of bed. Sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and even Alzheimer’s can prevent seniors from getting a good night’s sleep with frequent waking up during the night. Seniors should consider the following tips:
Keep a phone and emergency contacts by the bed
Have a lamp nearby that is simple to turn on
Keep a glass of water next to the bed to quench thirst in the night
Refrain from smoking, especially while in bed
Remove tripping hazards from the floor near the bed, like rugs, furniture, or articles of clothing
Limit electronics and screens before bedtime
Exposure to the lights of the screen of a TV, phone, or tablet will promote a wakeful feeling. To promote healthier, more restful sleep, it’s important for seniors to limit screen time before bed, and to avoid screen time while in bed.
Consider these top tips for seniors for getting healthier sleep. These tips can also help seniors with common issues that may prevent healthy sleep, like anxiety, worry, and excess energy, among others.
Pick the right pillows and mattress for your preferred sleeping position.
Turn your bedroom into a sleep sanctuary free of screens like TVs, phones, and tablets
Pick a consistent bedtime and wake-up time and stick with it
Exercise during the day to use energy and wear yourself out
Avoid afternoon naps that make falling asleep before bedtime difficult
Take time to relax before bed with a soothing bath or by relaxing your mind
Have a light snack at bedtime
Drink less fluid at night to prevent getting up to go to the restroom and disrupting sleep
The resources below provide more information about the following sleep topics for seniors:
Ways to improve your sleep routine and aids to help sleep
The most common sleep disorders and how to identify them
Clinical studies about sleep specific to seniors
Best practices for healthy sleep habits
Where to go if you need help for sleep issues
Sleep aids for seniors
The Mayo Clinic provides information specific to sleeping pills, and recommends the best way to determine what’s right for you. The Mayo Clinic is a highly trusted resource.
WebMD recommends natural sleep aids and remedies, and details effectiveness and risks for each aid or remedy.
This Huffington Post article highlights 13 top natural ways to fall asleep faster. The article attributes much of its information to doctors and credible sources.
The National Sleep Foundation offers industry-leading content about sleep disorders that are common for seniors. This web page offers several different categories of sleep disorders and problems.
The UCLA Sleep Center website offers a wealth of information in its “Patient Education” section about how sleep changes as people age and ways to improve sleep.
Sleep studies
This study explores “Normal and Abnormal Sleep in the Elderly” and sleep disorders, plus possible treatment options.
Addressing sleep over an entire lifespan, this study explores changes in sleep due to aging and confirms an increase in sleep latency and a decrease in slow-wave sleep that is common for seniors.
This study shows that older adults with low sleep efficiency have double the risk of mortality, and explores the long-term effects of poor sleep on overall health.
Sleep habits
This WebMD article is written by a doctor who details simple ways, including behavioral changes, to address sleep issues that are common for seniors.
Harvard University’s Healthy Sleep website details changes in sleep as people age, and includes a video that talks about the importance of paying close attention to healthy sleep habits with age to balance biological changes.
Familydoctor.org addresses lifestyle habits that can impact sleep and recommended habits for getting better, healthier sleep.
The American Psychological Association provides an “Older Adults and Insomnia Resource Guide” that includes a section with organizations to explore for additional information.