Information and Tips for Better Sleeping Habits
by Mary Wright, health educator at North End Community Health Center
Why we need sleep:
• We need 7-8 hours sleep per night
• The body and brain needs rest
• Sleep prepares body for the next day
• The brain needs this time to sort and store information, replace chemicals, and solve problems
As people age their sleep patterns may change, but you still have the same requirement for sleep as younger people. Older people tend to nap more, get sleepier early in the evening, and wake up earlier in the morning. These habits can make it more difficult to get a good night’s sleep. Also, older adults may wake up more often to use the bathroom. They may also have heartburn, arthritis, menopause, or illnesses such as cancer that may cause pain or discomfort. Lung disease and heart failure make it harder to sleep. Stress can also be a factor.
