Q: What do you recommend for problems with sleeping?

submitted by The Meadowlark Hills Medical Professionals

Everyone has problems sleeping at one time or another and a good night’s sleep is just as vital for older adults as it is for youth. A good night’s sleep helps maintain your physical and emotional wellbeing; it improves daytime concentration, alertness, memory and it mends your immune system to help prevent and fight disease. Poor sleep can increase your likelihood for depression, poor concentration, memory problems and illness.

Guidelines for a good night’s sleep

• Keep a regular sleep schedule.
• Develop a bedtime routine.
• Keep your bedroom dark, not too hot or cold and as quiet as possible.
• Regular daily exercise.
• Get outside and into the sunlight each day.
• Avoid large meals before bedtime.
• Avoid caffeine late in the day and alcohol near bedtime.
• Try to drink your fluid intake early in the day to avoid getting up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.
• Take care of your worries before bedtime.

Studies have shown that writing down your thoughts and worries before bed will help you fall asleep easier.

If these guidelines do not provide you with a good nights sleep, an appointment with your physician to discuss possible reasons for your poor sleep may be needed.  Potential causes of poor sleep could include a sleep disorder, medication side effects or interactions, medical conditions or pain.

Remember, to submit medical questions to the Meadowlark Hills Medical Professionals. Once a month, they will be shedding light on some of our major concerns!