5 Insomnia Remedies for Seniors

Insomnia is one of the most pressing issues affecting people in our culture. Busy, stressful daily routines often cause this disorder in younger individuals, but at least half of seniors experience insomnia as well. Elderly people need adequate amounts of sleep to restore energy and ensure proper bodily functions. If the senior you care for is experiencing frequent insomnia, it's time to find effective remedies.

Seniors deserve a good night’s rest, and in-home caregivers can help improve their sleep patterns. Here are a few insomnia remedies for older adults who struggle with sleep:

• Keep a regular sleep schedule
  Irregular sleeping patterns are one of the main contributing factors to insomnia. Help your loved one keep a set schedule of when to go to sleep and when to wake up.
  
  
• Take part in calming activities before bed
  Reading a book, listening to music or taking a warm bath are all ways to settle the mind before bed. Low-stress activities help seniors relax, providing a wonderful remedy for their insomnia.
  
  
• Lay off excessive napping
  While seniors require more rest time throughout the day than younger people, too much daytime sleeping can affect night sleep patterns. Monitor your loved one’s napping tendencies throughout the day and help them limit the time taken.
  
  
• Create a dark sleeping environment
  One of the best remedies for senior insomnia is keeping the bedroom as dark as possible. Too much light in a room activates neurons in our brains that keep us awake. Ideally, you should turn off all the lights from lamps, screens, etc. Seniors should disengage from TV, computers, phones, tablets, and other screens at least 30 minutes before heading to bed.
  
  
• Avoid heavy meals and spicy food
  Eating foods that contain spicy and heavy components can upset your stomach, especially if eaten before bed. Encourage seniors to eat light food throughout the evening to avoid those dreaded midnight stomachaches.

Family caretakers should research and practice the best insomnia remedies. These natural cures are safe ways to alleviate moderate insomnia. However, older adults with more serious symptoms, including those from Sundowning Syndrome, should speak with their doctor.

Our senior care providers can also provide assistance for senior loved ones who need additional assistance. We even offer overnight care so you can get a good night’s sleep.