Sleeping All Day: Is It Normal for Elderly People?

If you have elderly parents or grandparents, you may have noticed that they are sleeping more during the day. You may be wondering if this is normal behavior or if something is wrong. The good news is that, in most cases, it is perfectly normal for elderly people to sleep more during the day.

As we age, our bodies go through a lot of changes. One of these changes is that we need less sleep. Most young adults need around eight hours of sleep per night, but elderly people usually only need around six or seven hours. This doesn't mean that they are getting less sleep overall, however. They may just be taking more naps during the day because they need less uninterrupted sleep at night.

Another reason why elderly people may sleep more during the day is that they often have difficulty sleeping at night. This can be due to a number of factors, such as medication side effects, pain, and anxiety. If your loved one is having trouble sleeping at night, there are a few things you can do to help them get a better night's rest.

3 Ways to Help Your Loved One Sleep Better at Night

1. Establish a bedtime routine

A regular bedtime routine can help signal to your body that it's time to wind down and go to sleep. This may include taking a bath, reading a book, or doing some light stretching.

2. Avoid stimulants before bed

Caffeine and nicotine are stimulants that can keep you awake at night. If your loved one drinks coffee or smokes cigarettes, they should avoid doing so in the hours leading up to bedtime.

3. Create a calming environment

A dark and quiet bedroom will cue your body that it's time to sleep. Consider investing in some blackout curtains and earplugs to help your loved one get the best possible sleep at night.

If you notice that your elderly parent or grandparent is sleeping more during the day, don't panic! It is perfectly normal for elderly people to need less sleep and take more naps than younger people do. However, if your loved one is having difficulty sleeping at night, there are steps you can take to help them get a better night's rest. Establishing a bedtime routine, avoiding stimulants before bedtime, and creating a calm environment are all helpful things you can do for your loved one's sleep quality!

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