The holiday season is usually marked by family gatherings, travel, changes in schedules, food and more stimuli around. Amid the joy brought by the presence of children and grandchildren, it is common for elderly people to give up their sleep routine so as not to appear boring or demanding at family celebrations.
However, these changes can significantly affect sleep quality, worsening symptoms such as mental confusion, irritability, falls, worsening memory and decompensation of chronic diseases. Taking care of your sleep at this time is an essential way of promoting health.
Why elderly people’s sleep is more sensitive to changes
With aging, natural physiological changes occur in sleep, such as reduced deep sleep, greater fragmentation, tendency to sleep and wake up earlier and greater sensitivity to noise, light and changes in the environment. Thus, typical end-of-year situations, such as grandchildren and children sleeping at home, meals at irregular times, noise and lights on late, can further affect the elderly’s rest.
Furthermore, changes in meal times can, without being noticed, also change the timing of continuous medication use, which represents an additional risk.
How to preserve rest without giving up coexistence
Even during visits and events, it is important to try to maintain the usual sleeping and waking times, as well as respecting the already established sleep hygiene routine. Talking to the family and explaining the importance of this care is essential, especially with grandchildren, who are often excited all night long.
Prevent the elderly person from dozing off in a chair after 4 pm or from sleeping for long periods during the day. Short naps, up to 30 minutes, are more suitable. It is also important to avoid heavy meals at night. If the family supper is scheduled for very late, as was common in the past, it is worth anticipating a light dinner for the elderly.
Taking care of your sleep is taking care of your health
Respecting the elderly’s sleep during the holidays is a gesture of affection and attention. Quality sleep contributes to more energy, better mood, memory preservation and a lower risk of clinical complications or unnecessary visits to the emergency room.
The end of the year can indeed be a time of joy, affection and celebration, without giving up your health.
Dr. Julianne Pessequillo – CRM 160.834 | EQR 71,895
Geriatrician and general practitioner, specializing in healthy longevity
Membro da Brazil Health
