5 Reasons Sleep Is Important for Older Adults

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5 Reasons Sleep Is Essential for Seniors in Philadelphia, PA

Sleep is essential for a senior’s wellbeing and overall health. However, many older adults fail to get the amount of sleep the body needs to function normally. Make sure your aging loved one’s sleeping patterns aren’t disrupted, and encourage him or her to establish a nightly routine and avoid heavy eating or strenuous activities close to bedtime. Here are some of the health benefits your loved one could receive when getting a good night’s rest.

1. Lowers the Risk of Memory Loss

When your loved one gets plenty of sleep, his or her body will be able to rid itself of amyloids. These proteins can cause Alzheimer’s disease. As the brain sweeps away amyloids during the deep sleep phase, the mind is able to consolidate memories better. After a good night of rest, your loved one’s mind will be rejuvenated and clear, and his or her risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease could decrease.

Seniors can get adequate rest at night by making healthy lifestyle choices. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Families can rely on Home Care Philadelphia to provide dedicated and compassionate in-home caregivers who are trained in our holistic Balanced Care Method, which was designed to encourage seniors to exercise often, eat nutritious foods, maintain strong social ties, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. 

2. Reduces the Likelihood of Falls

Aging causes balance and flexibility issues for older adults, leading to more accidents and injuries. When your loved one gets plenty of sleep each night, he or she will have more energy during the day. The more energized your loved one is, the better he or she can move around the home without feeling weak and tired. As a result, the risk of slipping or falling will decrease. A good night’s sleep can also boost mental health, which can reduce the risk of falls.

3. Boosts the Immune System

The body has fewer immune cells in the senior years, which leads to slower healing. If your loved one’s immune system is weak, it could start attacking healthy body tissues that fight against infections and other health issues. Sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system, but getting enough sleep can reverse the situation. The stronger your loved one’s immune system is, the easier it will be for his or her body to fight against diseases and conditions caused by viral infections, fungus, and bacteria.

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Philadelphia, PA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

4. Helps Maintain a Healthy Weight

When seniors are unable to maintain a healthy weight, they are at a higher risk of strokes, heart attacks, kidney disease, and other serious medical conditions. If your loved one gets adequate sleep at night, his or her body will burn calories. Sleeping can also lead to more energy for older adults, helping them stay physically active during the daytime. Staying active and participating in various exercise routines can help seniors maintain a healthy weight.

5. Decreases Stress Levels

It is normal for seniors who haven’t slept at night to be stressed and less energized. When your loved one gets a good night of sleep, he or she can face daily activities and obstacles without feeling overwhelmed and too stressed out. Chronic stress can also cause inflammation in older adults, which leads to serious health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Sleeping throughout the night can lower inflammation in seniors, as well as the risk of depression.

Lack of sleep can lead to a wide variety of medical conditions for the elderly. Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional 24-hour care. Philadelphia seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. To hire a professional caregiver for your aging loved one, call Home Care Assistance at (215) 645-4663 today.

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