Aging can affect your sleep pattern and overall quality of your sleep. Having the best sleep is very important for your health. There are some interesting and specific facts about what tends to prevent good sleep.
While there are many different kinds of beds to help you sleep better, now there are many types of pillows that will help too. A generation ago we only thought of one kind of bed, the spring filled bed. Now there are beds that are adjustable, natural and made of organic materials. There is a multitude of different fills. The right bed can help with the several sleep problems that can occur as we age.
It is common for older people to have what is called “sleep latency”. This is the amount of time it takes an individual to fall asleep. Naturally, most people have a harder time falling asleep as the years go by. Sometimes it is because of chronic pain that can come with aging that has nothing to do with sleep problems.
The sleep rhythm also prevents sleep from providing the best rest and relaxation. The patterns change as we get older and studies show that there is less REM sleep, where the sleep is deeper and the dreams are vivid. There is lighter sleeping. This does not provide as restful sleep
Sleep deprivation can be directly related to sleep issues.
1. Snoring is a common problem. It is estimated that 40% of our population snores.
2. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that affects your legs. It causes an irresistible urge to move the legs because of uncomfortable feelings of tingling and pulling within the legs.
3. Menopause, brought on by hormonal changes, often brings hot flashes which prevent a good night’s sleep.
4. Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) can bring discomfort from heartburn and wake you up during the night.
The amount of light your eyes are exposed to also affect how you sleep. Studies show that when we watching television or computer use close to bed time affects our ability to fall asleep quickly. Light from electrical appliances will fool your brain to thinking it is daytime. Sunlight during the day will keep your brain focused that it is daytime and you should not sleep. Therefore you should keep as much to the normal rhythm of light and dark as you are able. Actually this is good for your overall health as well.
The National Sleep Foundation reported a study that examined the overall physical health and mental well being of people who worked in off hour shifts. They found that the more you work during the night, the more likely you are to be depressed and suffer from a lower immune system. Our bodies crave the light during the day and darkness at night. Following this natural pattern as we age will help us sleep a better and more restful sleep.