Why Sleeping Becomes Difficult As You Age?

As people age sleeping in time, and getting a good night's sleep becomes really difficult. As per the studies, almost half of older adults experience sleep difficulties, and it affects around 27 million Americans over the age of 65. There are factors like health conditions, medication side effects, and changes in the body's internal clock that contribute to these sleep struggles. However, understanding the causes and adopting better sleep habits can improve these issues.

But, why does sleeping become difficult with age?

Experts opine that sleep patterns change after you turn 50. Older adults experience more frequent interruptions in sleep, and it leads to lighter sleep and less time spent in deep and rapid eye movement or REM sleep. Despite these changes, adults over 65 need 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night, just like younger adults.

There could be lifestyle factors too that make sleeping a bit more difficult:

Irregular Sleep Schedules: If you go to bed and wake up at different times each day

Lack of physical activity: As you age you tend to lessen your physical activity and not exercising enough could make it more difficult for you to fall asleep

Alcohol and caffeine: While it may feel like alcohol makes you sleep faster, however, it actually leads to more abrupt sleep. Whereas, the caffeine content in any drink can make you stay up late

Medications And Its Affect On Sleep

Prescribed medications could be a problem why one may face sleep problems. As per the Federal Health data, nearly 89% of older adults take prescribed drugs and more than half take four or more medications. Certain drugs such as asthma medications, decongestants, and blood pressure medicines can interfere with sleep.

Health Conditions That Can Also Disrupt Your Sleep

There are certain health issues common in older adults which can make it harder to get a restful sleep, these include:

Arthritis and chronic pain: pain can make it more difficult for you to fall asleep

Heart Diseases: This can cause shortness of breath, making it difficult to fall asleep

Diabetes: Blood sugar fluctuations may cause nighttime awakenings

Acid Reflux: As you grow old, your digestion also slows down, and lying flat can make it worse

Parkinson's disease and dementia: These are also some of the common disorders that develop to older people and could alter sleep-wake cycles

When Should You See A Doctor?

It is important to keep track of how your sleep cycle is being affected and follow the pattern. If you notice something unusual, go see a doctor. Here is a list of unusual signs that could mean you need to see a doctor:

• Frequent snoring, pauses in breathing, gasping for air
• Waking up with headaches, a dry mouth or feeling unrested
• Frequent nighttime urination
• Restless legs or leg discomfort
• Anxiety or racing thoughts preventing you from sleeping
• Acting out dreams during sleep

Natural Remedies You Can Try

• Try and create a bedtime routine. This means going to bed at the same time each night and following a relaxing routine, which can improve sleep quality.
• Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake.
• Exercise regularly
• Optimize sleep environment. You can use blackout curtains, keep the bedroom cool and use relaxing scents that could help.