One of the most important routines for older adults to keep is their sleep schedule. It helps their bodies recover, keeps the mind sharp, and strengthens immune systems.
Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule must be a priority for every senior citizen and getting plenty of rest can only help.
Resist the temptation to stay up late:
As we grow older, we tend to take advantage of our own personal freedoms. Some habits that can disrupt sleep schedules include: staying up late to watch TV, browsing the internet for hours on end, or engaging in any other distraction that keeps us awake.
During such times, it is important to prioritize sleep over everything else. Although it may not seem like it initially, the lack of sleep may potentially lead to problems like hypertension or diabetes.
Yet, the temptation to stay up late is always going to be there, so it’s important to give yourself a little leeway. Maybe one or two days in a week you can stay up an hour past your sleep time, but overall, aim to maintain a consistent routine.
What could you do instead?
To give yourself the best chance to sleep, start reading a relaxing book one hour before your bedtime. It helps slow the brain down and gets you drowsy after a while.
You could do a little stretching, or even sit in silence and close your eyes. This can help your body adjust better and prepare for a long night of sleep. A little prayer and/or meditation can also help you turn away from distractions and prepare for sleep.
Follow these tips and give yourself the best chance of maintaining a healthy sleep schedule!
