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Why do older adults sleep so much?
Is too much sleep a problem for older adults?
What conditions affect sleep in older people?
Excessive sleep causes inactivity that causes low energy levels, constant grogginess and brain fog. Loss of energy is likely to make the senior less willing to perform necessary physical therapy exercises properly, and this can lead to diminished health and shorter lifespans.
When elders spend more time engaged in life during the day, it reduces boredom, minimizes depressive symptoms, and typically leads to better quality sleep at night. As a concerned caregiver, your goal is to determine why your loved one is so fatigued and how you can boost their mood and energy level.
- Appetite and digestive changes. As one nears the end of life, metabolism and digestion gradually slow down. Fewer calories are needed, so loss of appetite and decreased thirst are normal.
- Sleeping more. Generalized weakness and fatigue are common. Energy levels wane and time spent sleeping increases.
- Withdrawal from the world. You might notice a sense of resignation and withdrawal from the larger world. The person may create a protective bubble of fewer people and less curiosity about events outside the bubble.
- Anxiety and depression. As the end of life becomes apparent, some people experience a growing fear or worry for themselves or for those who will be left behind.
Feb 10, 2023 · Takeaway. Sleeping more often is a common symptom of vascular dementia. While it doesn’t require medical treatment, steps can be taken to improve the quality of life for those with dementia....
- Dorian Smith-Garcia
Sep 19, 2023 · Key Takeaways. Circadian rhythms change as people age, often leading to disrupted sleep patterns. Increased prevalence of mental and physical health conditions can increase risk of fragmented sleep. Sleep disturbances can decrease sleep quality and quantity and become chronic sleep issues if not addressed.
Aug 4, 2022 · In general, older people sleep less, wake up and go back to sleep more often, and spend less time in deep sleep or dreaming than younger people. But at any age, you still need quality rest to...
May 20, 2024 · Sleep quality often declines in people ages 55 and older, and dementia can make it worse.. Dementia changes the way your brain functions and the way it regulates sleep. Most adults need 7 to 8 ...
