Common Sleep Problems for the Elderly

By Jamie Shapiro | November 23, 2016 | Comments Off on Common Sleep Problems for the Elderly

Home Care in Deerfield IL

Sleeping problems are a common occurrence among older adults. While some may find it difficult to rest, others may become more fatigued during the day and wide awake at night. Older adults Home-Care-in-Deerfield-ILwho do not get an adequate amount of sleep at night may feel its effects on their mood and physical health. Depression, increased irritability, and other mood problems may make it difficult for the elder to continue doing the tasks and chores they need to do each day.

By understanding what sleep problems your loved one is at risk for, you or a home care provider can help the senior get the treatment they need to overcome the problem.

 

Sleep Problems

  • Sleep apnea. When the elder’s breathing is briefly interrupted while they are sleeping.
  • Insomnia. It occurs when the senior has problems falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping soundly.
  • Periodic limb movement disorder. Involuntarily movement of limbs during their sleep.
  • Restless leg syndrome. Overwhelming need to move their legs while trying to sleep.
  • REM behavior disorder. Frequently acting out dreams while the elder is asleep, yet they are unable to remember doing so.
  • Circadian rhythm sleep disorders. This disorder occurs when the elder constantly wakes up in the middle of a sleep cycle causing a disruption in their sleep-awake cycle.

 

Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions could cause your loved one to have trouble falling asleep. Some of these disruptive conditions include:

  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Chronic pain, such as the kind of pain associated with arthritis
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Neurological health issues
  • Lack of bladder control
  • Respiratory or lung problems

 

Medications

Another possible cause of your loved one’s sleep problems could be the medications they are taking. If your loved one takes any of the following medications, talk to their doctor about a possible substitute for that prescription.

  • Anticholinergics: Commonly used for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
  • Diuretics: Used for high blood pressure or glaucoma
  • Adrenergic drugs: If your loved one has a life-threatening condition, like asthma attacks or cardiac arrest, they may be prescribed this medication
  • H2 blockers: Commonly used for peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • Antidepressants
  • Corticosteroids: Usually prescribed for people with rheumatoid arthritis

 

The sooner your elderly parent is able to get treated for their sleep problem, the sooner they can get back to feeling like themselves once again.

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Deerfield, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.

 

Source:  https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/sleep-disorders-in-the-elderly#Overview1

Jamie Shapiro
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