Getting Enough Sleep
As we age through our 40s, we often experience changes in our sleeping patterns, such as becoming sleepy all day, waking up earlier, or experiencing less deep sleep. However, these phenomena are not a normal part of aging. Sleep is just as important to our physical and emotional health as it was when we were younger.
Studies have also shown a close connection between disrupted sleep and a compromised immune system. A good night’s sleep helps improve concentration and memory formation, allows our body to repair any cell damage that occurred during the day, and refreshes our immune system, which in turn helps to prevent disease.
Older adults who don’t sleep well are more likely to suffer from depression, attention and memory problems. Insufficient sleep can also lead to serious health problems, including an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, weight problems, and breast cancer in women. Indeed, clinical research shows that blood pressure and heart rate increase when people are compromised on sleep.
It has been observed that insomnia is getting more common in older adults of 40s and beyond. 7-8 hours sleep is recommended for a Forty plus adult for better mental and physical health
Sleep less than 6 hours a night? You’re more likely to get heart disease. Doctors aren’t sure how it works, but they know lack of sleep raises blood pressure, increases your stress level, and boosts adrenaline — all of which can take a toll on your heart. https://wb.md/2ZzhHcH
Some best practices recommended for an uninterrupted sleep from Sleepfoundation.org
o Start by making sleep a priority in your schedule. This means budgeting for the hours you need so that work or social activities don’t trade off with sleep.
o Improving your sleep hygiene, which includes your bedroom setting and sleep-related habits, is an established way to get better rest. Examples of sleep hygiene improvements include:
o Sticking to the same sleep schedule every day, even on weekends.
o Practicing a relaxing pre-bed routine to make it easier to fall asleep quickly.
o Choosing the best mattress that is supportive and comfortable, and outfitting it with the best pillows and bedding.
o Minimizing potential disruptions from light and sound while optimizing your bedroom temperature and aroma.
o Disconnecting from electronic devices like mobile phones and laptops for a half-hour or more before bed.
o Carefully monitoring your intake of caffeine and alcohol and trying to avoid consuming them in the hours before bed.