Sleep changes with age, and poor sleep affects mood, safety, and health. PSWs can help a lot.
How Sleep Changes
- Lighter sleep, more night waking.
- Falling asleep and waking earlier.
- More daytime naps.
- Less deep, restorative sleep.
Common Disruptors
Pain, toileting, medications, caffeine, noise, and daytime inactivity. Many can be eased.
How PSWs Support Rest
- Calm, consistent bedtime routine.
- Toilet trip before bed.
- Reduce noise; dim lights at night.
- Limit late caffeine.
- Encourage daytime activity and light.
- Comfortable, safe bed.
What to Report
Report ongoing insomnia, night-time confusion, sleep-disrupting pain, or heavy daytime sleepiness.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Aging brings lighter sleep, more waking.
- Address pain, toileting, caffeine, noise.
- Keep a calm routine and daytime activity.
- Report ongoing insomnia or night confusion.