For the elderly, insomnia is almost a common problem for them. They have been enduring this suffering for a long time, and it is also very uncomfortable for them. So what is the reason behind this phenomenon? Let's take a look together!
The impact of long-term insomnia on the elderly
Elderly insomnia is a common disease that greatly affects physical and mental health.
Long-term insomnia can lead to fatigue, accelerated aging, weakened immune system, disrupted nervous system function, increased risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and may cause anxiety, depression and other mental disorders.
Several common symptoms of insomnia in clinical practice
1. Takes more than 30 minutes to fall asleep;
2. Wakes up more than twice during the night or wakes up early in the morning;
3. Shallow sleep and frequent dreams;
4. Total sleep time is usually less than 6 hours;
5. Experiences dizziness, mental fatigue, irritability, etc. the next day.
Root causes of insomnia
1. Physiological factors
As people age, the sleep regulation center of the elderly's brain declines.
In addition, the secretion of melatonin, which is responsible for adjusting the biological clock and inducing sleep, is insufficient in the body, making it difficult for many elderly people to fall asleep.
It is recommended to increase outdoor activities during the day, take melatonin or sleeping pills orally.
2. Medication
Taking medications that stimulate the central nervous system before bedtime, such as hypertension medication like losartan or asthma medication like ephedrine, can make it difficult for the elderly to fall asleep.
3. Social and psychological factors
The elderly have less communication with family and friends after retirement, and they have too much mental burden, which leads to tossing and turning in bed.
Some elderly people also have fear of sleep and worry about leaving the world in their sleep, so they resist sleep.
It is recommended for the elderly to divert their attention and reduce irrational thoughts.
4. Medical conditions
Some elderly people suffer from sleep-related disorders such as restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movements, and nocturnal leg cramps, which can cause insomnia.
5. Environmental and lifestyle factors
Factors such as noisy living environment, strong light in the room, and poor bedroom temperature or humidity can all make it difficult for the elderly to sleep well.
Food that can help the elderly sleep
1. Raisins
Raisins can effectively improve anemia, which is beneficial for the elderly who often experience back pain during travel, and it can also help improve sleep.
2. Peanuts
Peanuts are rich in protein and vitamins, which can improve memory in the elderly and promote digestion to help sleep.
3. Bananas
In addition to containing carbohydrates, bananas also contain magnesium, which is a muscle relaxant and can aid in sleep.
4. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are an excellent choice for sleep aid as they not only contain abundant carbohydrates but also potassium.
