The Link Between Good Sleep and Good Health

Getting a good night’s sleep is important no matter what your age is including seniors as it impacts both our physical and mental health.  HelpGuide.org explains that not getting enough sleep can contribute to negative health conditions and put you at risk for heart disease, heart attack, heart failure,  high blood pressure, stoke and diabetes.    

Research has found that insufficient sleep can cause the release of insulin that leads to an increase of fat storage and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.  It may also make people more susceptible to depression, fatigue, and premature aging of the skin.  Other problems can include an impaired attention span as well as difficulty in problem solving, reasoning and concentration.  In addition, experts suggest chronic fatigue may contribute to weight problems and even breast cancer in women.    

However when we routinely get good sleep, it can improve concentration and memory formation.  Help Guide reports that restful sleep gives the body time to repair any cell damage that may have occurred during the day and to refresh our immune systems, which may help prevent disease. 

So how much sleep do we need?  Studies find healthy adults should get around 7.5 to 9 hours of sleep each night; however, it is less about the actual hours and more about whether you feel rested.   Tips to improve your sleep habits include limiting caffeine late in the day and avoiding alcohol before bedtime.  If you are hungry, eat a light snack that avoids sugary foods and those high in refined carbs.  Also avoid drinking liquids about an hour and half before bed. 

MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek provides assisted living for dementia patients from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages. We offer 48 suites as well as respite care and day care programs.  Please visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a true home within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living for dementia patients in Colorado Springs.

Source: helpguide.org/articles/sleep/how-to-sleep-well-as-you-age.htm