{"id":6585,"date":"2022-08-24T10:17:50","date_gmt":"2022-08-24T14:17:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.avacaremedical.com\/blog\/?p=6585"},"modified":"2022-08-24T10:17:50","modified_gmt":"2022-08-24T14:17:50","slug":"how-to-keep-an-elderly-person-in-bed-at-night","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.avacaremedical.com\/blog\/how-to-keep-an-elderly-person-in-bed-at-night.html","title":{"rendered":"How to Keep an Elderly Person in Bed at Night?"},"content":{"rendered":"

As we grow older, our sleep cycle changes and is disturbed. Whether an elderly citizen or a young teenager, everyone needs a good 7 to 9 hours of sleep at night. But a lot of seniors struggle to fall or stay asleep soundlessly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Once woken up at midnight, they face the need to go to the bathroom or get something to drink or eat, which threatens their safety, especially when they are alone, and it’s dark in the room. <\/span>Grab bars and toilet safety rails<\/span><\/a> are best to assist them with movement, but <\/span>plastic-backed diapers<\/span><\/a> are suggested to make them stay in bed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Here’s more on how to keep the older adult in bed at night.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Reasons for Disrupted Sleep at Night:\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

One of the problems for the aging body is the lesser production of melatonin, a hormone that facilitates the sleep cycle. Aside from melatonin and other hormonal issues, health conditions can also affect the sleep cycle in a senior citizen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Diabetes<\/span><\/a> and prostate cancer cause frequent urination needs, even at night. At the same time, heart failure and kidney ailment make it difficult for older people to sleep peacefully, leading to uncomfortable and restless nights.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another reason for disrupted sleep is insomnia. As per The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 48% of seniors experience insomnia symptoms. The chronic condition makes it challenging for them to sleep; in contrast, others find it difficult to stay asleep all night. The primary reasons for insomnia are dementia and Alzheimer\u2019s. Sometimes depression and high blood pressure medications also affect the sleep cycle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It is also noted that caffeine intake and lack of physical activity in a senior person\u2019s life lead to sleep deprivation. Keep reading to know some tips to overcome these issues.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Top Tips to Keep Older Adults in Bed at Night\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Suppose an older adult has dementia or is suffering from chronic insomnia. In that case, the caregivers must also suffer at night to ensure their loved ones are safe and secure. A good night\u2019s sleep is imperative for both of you to retain good health and a refreshing mood in the morning.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Here are our top suggestions for you:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Treat their Ailments:\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Old age also brings pains and diseases with it. Often this pain doesn\u2019t let a person sleep peacefully. It can be back or knee pains, sleep apnea, or any condition that makes them restless at night. Seek medical guidance and treatment for such issues.<\/span><\/p>\n

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      Use the Right Incontinence Products:\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      If you or your loved ones have incontinence and mobility issues, providing them with the most absorbent adult diapers or the best <\/span>overnight underwear<\/span><\/a> is better. Use <\/span>adult bed pads<\/span><\/a> to lock urine in case of accidental leakage at night.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

      Experts advise keeping the senior\u2019s fluid intake in check, especially around bedtime, because it can lead to urine production and frequent urination needs. Avoid bladder irritants like coffee and alcohol a minimum of eight hours before bedtime. Do not put off water entirely at night because maintaining adequate hydration is also very important.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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        Use a Bedtime Organizer:\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        As mentioned earlier, seniors might need something to eat or drink when they wake up at night. Therefore it is wise to keep some eatables right beside their bed. Keep food, water bottle, medications, and pain killer to help them assist themselves without stumbling in the dark.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

        You can arrange a bedtime organizer consisting of their favorite books and a small lamp to help them pass the time when they can’t sleep. <\/span>Bed alarms for seniors<\/span><\/a> give caregivers a signal when their loved ones leave their bed alone. It can be handy for you to know when they need something or are walking alone in the dark.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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          Physical Activity\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Any physical activity is a must during the day whether the elderly have dementia or not. Exercising keeps them healthy and allows them to enjoy the outdoors and stretch their muscles and legs. Moving around keeps your muscles working, allowing you to avoid restless leg syndrome.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

          The exercise can be as simple as walking around in the driveway any day. However, try to keep the walking or exercising task earlier in the day because being tired in the evening can increase irritation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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            Schedule daytime naps\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            The primary reason for insomnia is frequent naps during the day. Many seniors sleep during the day when they have nothing else to do, making it difficult to sleep at night. Taking a nap is fine but keep the naps:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n