Are you a senior who has trouble sleeping and do you wake up numerous times during the night? If your answer was no, you are more the exception than the rule. 

Sleep is a vital physiological process needed to maintain a healthy mind and body. As we continue to age, our ability to sleep decreases. Some folks might wake up earlier, spend extra time in bed, take more naps and/or, just not sleep enough or get the right kind of sleep. 

Seniors over the age of 65 who live in their own homes reportedly had less insomnia than those living in a senior care facility. Of those living in memory care, skilled nursing or a senior living community, ⅔ complained about being unhappy with their sleep. 

Nonetheless, half of seniors living on their own report poorer sleep quality. Even when receiving home care services or in home care, there is an inability to sleep well. Sleep apnea, where there is an obstruction of the airway in the throat, cannot be cured on its own, and is a cause for poor sleep quality. Signs to be aware of are loud snoring, episodes of non breathing for seconds at a time, tossing and turning and being chronically tired. Untreated, one may develop high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, memory issues, weight gain and morning headaches. Don’t delay, see your medical professional as soon as possible if one or more of these signs exist. 

By the year 2025, there will be 62 million people over the age of 65 and almost half of them will have difficulty sleeping. Poor productivity at work, increased risk of accidents, cognitive impairment, and an increased mortality rate can all contribute to enormous amounts of revenue being lost in this economy. 

Sleep is essential and something we cannot live without. It is not a privilege, it is a necessity. If you are one of the millions of Americans who fit into this sleepless category, talk to your healthcare provider. Nothing is more important than your health and well-being.

Sleep is a vital physiological process needed to maintain a healthy mind and body. As we continue to age, our ability to sleep decreases. Seniors over the age of 65 who live in their own homes reportedly had less insomnia than those living in a senior care facility.