How to Get a Better Night’s Sleep:
If you are having more trouble sleeping as you get older, there may be several reasons why. The first thing to do is check with your doctor who can do a physical exam to see if there are any underlying health issues that may be contributing to your sleeplessness. Medication for sleep may sometimes be prescribed, but is usually not the answer. The key to a good night’s sleep is building healthy sleep habits. 
The first thing to put in place is a consistent sleep schedule. This means going to bed around the same time each night, and getting up at the same time every morning. This way your body’s internal clock will be working with you, which will help you fall asleep faster at night, and be ready to get up in the morning. Here are some other strategies to try:
- Use your bed only for sleeping at night. Limit daytime napping, particularly in the afternoon.
- Regular exercise can also help you sleep more soundly at night.
- Make sure you wind down in the evening with peaceful and quiet activities.
- There is lots of evidence that meditation, when done on a regular basis, can help improve sleep patterns.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine in the evenings. And don’t eat large, heavy meals too late in the day.
- Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and very quiet at night.
Consistently getting a good night’s sleep is an essential part of a healthy life. Getting enough sleep helps us stay alert, refreshed and ready to face whatever comes up in our day. At Harmony Senior Homes a night of sound sleep is typical for our residents. A happy, healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to ensure sound sleep patterns.