Managing Sleep for Seniors with Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease can have a significant impact on the quality and quantity of sleep. Seniors who have received a Parkinson’s diagnosis can struggle with insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, restlessness and other sleep related issues. Understanding how to improve sleep in seniors with Parkinson’s disease is important in order to keep them safe, healthy and happy.
The most common sleep difficulties experienced by seniors with Parkinson’s is the inability to stay asleep. After falling asleep, seniors may remain in light sleep. This can make it difficult for the body and mind to reach restorative and restful sleep. As well, seniors may have difficulty initiating sleep due to physical and mental arousal.
In many cases, the treatment for disrupted sleep in seniors with Parkinson’s Disease involves various medication therapies. Medications can help to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and reduce restlessness. Additionally, developing good sleep habits and following a regular sleep routine is essential for seniors with Parkinson’s Day to maintain a good level of restfulness.
Creating a Regular Sleep Routine
The main goal when creating a regular sleep routine for seniors Parkinson’s Disease is to establish a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Seniors should plan to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day. This will help the body become accustomed to a particular schedule and stay in sync with its natural circadian clock. Additionally, seniors should remove any type of electronics or distracting items from the bedroom to optimize for a comfortable sleep environment.
It is also important to ensure that seniors get regular exercise during the day and limit their napping. Exercise can help to reduce daytime sleepiness and improve rest at night. Seniors with Parkinson’s Disease should also avoid stimulants, such as caffeine, close to bedtime. This includes avoiding coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks.
Reduce Sleep Related Symptoms
Seniors with Parkinson’s Disease may also benefit from creating a relaxing environment prior to sleep. Relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation and visualization have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety prior to sleep. Additionally, taking a hot bath or shower can help to improve the quality of sleep in seniors.
If seniors experience restless shaking or jerking, or if they experience difficulty initiating sleep, it can be useful to take a medical approach. Low-dose dopamine agonists can help to reduce or eliminate these symptoms and can help seniors with Parkinson’s Disease to achieve restful and restorative sleep.
Additionally, it may be beneficial for seniors to use a device that monitors their sleep patterns. This will help to detect any patterns in their sleep cycles and can assist doctors when making treatment decisions.
Tips for Seniors with Parkinson’s Disease
- Develop and stick to a regular sleep routine.
- Eliminate any electronics and distracting items from the bedroom.
- Engage in regular daytime exercise.
- Avoid stimulants, such as caffeine, close to bedtime.
- Try relaxation methods before bed.
- Take low-dose dopamine agonists to reduce sleep related symptoms.
- Monitor sleep patterns for further insight.
Conclusion
Managing sleep may take some additional effort for seniors with Parkinson’s Disease. With the right approach, however, seniors can achieve restful and restorative sleep. Ensuring good sleep habits, such as creating a regular routine and avoiding stimulants, can help seniors to get the sleep they need to maintain their health and wellness.