Insomnia often manifests as difficulty falling asleep or waking up very early.
Older adults are generally advised to sleep seven to eight hours per night. However, many seniors find that they wake up several times during the night.
The need to use the bathroom, pain, and certain types of medication can disrupt sleep.
Good habits help
Small changes can make a difference. According to elEconomista, light from televisions, lamps, and mobile phones can make it harder to fall asleep.
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The temperature in the bedroom should be around 19 to 21 degrees Celsius. If the room is too warm or too cold, it can affect sleep quality.
It is also recommended to avoid intense exercise late in the evening and to wait a couple of hours after dinner before going to bed.
Regular bedtimes can help the body establish a healthy rhythm.
Sleep and health
Sleep is not only about feeling rested. According to elEconomista, long-term sleep deprivation may be linked to cardiovascular disease as well as metabolic disorders. There is also a connection to diabetes.
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Too little sleep can also affect the body’s hormones and lead to weight gain.
Sleeping less after the age of 60 is often due to both the body’s natural changes and shifts in daily routines.
Sources: elEconomista.
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