Addressing the Impact of Medications on Sleep in Seniors
Sleep is essential for our overall wellbeing, especially in seniors. In older adults, various factors can contribute to poor sleeping habits, such as pain and health conditions. One of the more common sleep disruptors is the use of medications. Many seniors use a variety of different medications, all of which can have a substantial effect on quality of sleep.
Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of these medications, in order to address the impact they may have on sleep. This also allows for modifications in the medication regime or even other lifestyle changes, to ensure seniors are getting the sleep they need to maintain their wellbeing.
In this article, we explore how medications may affect sleep in seniors, the potential impacts, as well as ways to address this issue.
How Medications May Disrupt Sleep
As we age, our bodies become more sensitive to various substances, including medications. Medical conditions often require seniors to take several medications at once, increasing the potential of a different drug interaction.
The most common side effect seniors face is disturbed sleep. Many types of medications, such as painkillers, can have caffeine as a constituent resulting in difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep throughout the night. Other medications, such as certain high blood pressure medications, can cause insomnia and sleep disturbances while older adults on antidepressants may experience Nightmares.
Medication’s Impact on Sleep Quality
Sleep disruptions due to medications can have significant impacts on seniors quality of sleep. Poor quality sleep can lead to reduced cognitive functioning, mood disturbances, and increase the likelihood of falls and fractures.
Sedating medications can disrupt sleep in seniors, especially if the dosage is too high. Not to mention, if the medication is taken close to bedtime, the sedation can become heavy and prevent the person from getting a good night’s rest.
Moreover, certain medications may interact with other common substances, such as alcohol, which can further disrupt sleeping patterns in seniors.
How to Address Sleep Disruptions Due to Medications
If you believe medications are the cause of your sleep disruptions, it is best to consult your doctor and review the following tips:
- Request an appointment with a dentist to check for sleep apnoea.
- Be sure to speak to your doctor to assess your dosage.
- Choose the right time to take your medications.
- Avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, and other substances close to bedtime.
- Maintain regular sleeping patterns and habits.
Conclusion
Medications often have an impact on quality of sleep in seniors. Knowing the potential cause of the disruptions is the first step towards getting the rest you deserve. If you believe medications may be the cause, it is important to speak to your doctor who can provide the help and support you need.