How Medications Can Impact Sleep in Seniors
As we get older our sleep patterns may change, which can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the most notable changes can be caused by medications which can interrupt our sleeping patterns and cause other complications for our elderly loved ones. It is important to be aware of the ways medications can impact sleep in seniors in order to ensure that we are providing the necessary support to help them get restful sleep.
Some medications, such as those for allergies, colds and coughs, can cause drowsiness. This can be beneficial since these medications are usually taken at night, however it could also lead to oversleeping and excessive tiredness. Additionally, high blood pressure medications can cause side effects like difficulty sleeping or not being able to maintain your sleep. These changes can cause anxiety and lack of energy during the day, so it is important to talk to your doctor about adjusting the dosage if needed.
Other medication related sleep changes in seniors can be caused by medications for chronic illnesses or long-term treatment. For example, medicines for diabetes, arthritis, and even psychological conditions can have a major impact on the body and cause insomnia or excessive drowsiness. Even common over the counter pain killers like ibuprofen can interfere with sleep. It is important to be aware of the side effects of these medications and to discuss them with the doctor if any are having a significant impact on the elderly person’s sleep.
Managing Medication Impact on Sleep
There are some steps that can be taken to help manage the way medications can effect sleep. First and foremost, the elderly person should consult with their doctor who prescribed the medication to ensure the side effects are reduced. If the doctor cannot adjust the dose, they can suggest alternative measures like trying different sleep times, avoiding activities before bed or changing the environment. Additionally, most over the counter medications should not be taken too close to bedtime in order to avoid any disruptions in sleep.
Lastly, it is also important to have an environment that encourages comfortable sleep habits. This includes ensuring the temperature is not too hot or cold, having a comfortable bed and mattress, and reducing any noise or light that could disrupt the sleep cycle. If needed, noise machines, dim lighting or blackout curtains can be added to the bedroom in order to create a restful environment.
Supplements and Sleep Aids
Finally, if medications are causing serious sleep problems or insomnia, supplements and sleep aids can be utilized. Melatonin, valerian root, magnesium, and chamomile are all natural ingredients that can be combined to help the elderly get better rest at night. Additionally, essential oils like lavender or chamomile can be added to the bedroom or used in a diffuser in order to promote relaxation and help to induce sleep.
There are also numerous over the counter sleep aids that can help to regulate sleep and reduce apprehensions that can keep the elderly awake. It is important to talk to the doctor before taking any of these products as some may interact with existing medications and have additional side effects. While these sleep aids can help for the short term, their effects should not be relied on over a long period of time.
Prescription sleep medications can also be prescribed by the doctor if the elderly person is having serious difficulty sleeping. These medications can be helpful but should also be used in moderation as long-term usage can lead to dependence and other complications.
Consequences of Poor Sleep
It is essential to be aware of the ways medications can impact sleep to ensure that the proper measures are taken to help the elderly with their sleeping patterns. Poor sleep can cause a variety of issues such as:
- Fatigue
- Moodiness
- Cardiovascular problems
- Memory Loss
- Weakened immune system
Conclusion
Understanding how medications can impact sleep in seniors is important for providing them with the proper support for better rest. Through discussions with the doctor, modifications to the environment, or relying on supplements or sleep aids, we can ensure that restful sleep is achieved without any unnecessary risks.