Understanding the Risk of Insomnia in Seniors
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects the ability to fall asleep or remain asleep. The experts in our senior assisted living facility have put together this guide to help you become more aware of the condition. Read on to learn more, so you know how to best deal with the disorder.
Different Types of Insomnia in Seniors
Two Major Types of Sleep Disorder
- Primary Insomnia
This kind of sleep disorder indicates that you are having trouble sleeping, and doctors may not be able to find a specific medical reason. This is why it is a bit complex to treat. They will ask you questions about your lifestyle, including your exercise routine and food you eat to understand you better and come up with a solution. - Secondary Insomnia
If your doctor can identify the reason for your sleep troubles, you likely have secondary insomnia. Some diseases that can cause this type of insomnia include depression, cancer, arthritis, anxiety, and addiction. Also, the medication you take can influence your sleeping pattern.
Insomnia Types Based on How Long You Sleep
- Acute Insomnia
If your insomnia symptoms last for a couple of weeks, then you may be experiencing acute insomnia. The common causes of this type of sleeping problem range from a busy traveling schedule to stress and anxiety. - Chronic Insomnia
This type of insomnia occurs when you have problems sleeping multiple times a week for a month or longer. It is mostly associated with secondary insomnia.
Problems Caused by Insomnia
- Depression
While depression is known to cause sleep troubles, it is also true that insomnia can lead to depression. Having poor sleep over a long period can severely affect the overall quality of your life. This is why it is essential to consult a specialist. - Heart Disease
Studies show that almost half of heart patients have sleeping troubles. It helps to know that shorter amounts of sleep, i.e., less than 6-7 hours a day, elevates the blood pressure, causing heart problems. - Diabetes
According to the specialists in our assisted living facility, there is a direct connection between sleeping problems and diabetes. Getting proper sleep helps to regulate the sugar level in the blood. This is why chronic insomnia can lead to diabetes. - Increased Consumption of Alcohol
Research shows that people with insomnia often turn to alcohol because it has sedative properties. Depending on alcohol to fall and stay asleep can turn into an addiction, eventually triggering other diseases.
Treating Insomnia in Seniors
According to the experts in our senior living community, the treatment for insomnia depends on the root cause. If your insomnia is caused by a medical condition, your doctor will want to monitor you and may alter the medicines you take. However, if your sleeping troubles are due to stress or anxiety, they may want to take a different course of action. This is why it is best to consult a specialist to deal with insomnia.
Senior Assisted Living Facility to Keep You Safe, Healthy & Happy
At The Holiday Retirement, we provide comfortable senior housing to help you stay happy and healthy. We have qualified staff to cater to your needs and treat you with love and affection.
If you want the convenience of aging in place, please call us at 401-371-3220 to learn about our assisted living community in Rhode Island. You could also fill out our online contact form to schedule a tour of our senior living facility.
Related:
- Nutritional Needs Change As We Age
- Why Seniors May Have Lower Vitamin B12
- How Assisted Living Facilities Improve Quality of Life