Insomnia- What You Can Do
Is Insomnia Stealing Your Sleep?
Are you or a loved one in struggling to get a full night's rest? Waking up frequently, finding it hard to fall asleep, or feeling tired even after a full night in bed are common complaints among seniors. While it’s often dismissed as a normal part of aging, chronic insomnia can significantly impact your health and quality of life.
Why is Insomnia so Common in Seniors?
It's true that sleep patterns change with age. We tend to get less deep sleep and our sleep-wake cycles (circadian rhythms) shift, making it harder to stay asleep through the night. But these natural changes aren't the only culprits. Insomnia in older adults is often a complex issue with multiple contributing factors:
Underlying Medical Conditions: Many health problems common in older adults can disrupt sleep. Think chronic pain from arthritis, breathing problems like sleep apnea, or frequent nighttime urination due to an enlarged prostate or diabetes.
Medications: Seniors often take multiple medications, and a surprising number of them—from heart and blood pressure drugs to antidepressants and cold remedies—can have a stimulating or sedating effect that interferes with sleep.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors: A less active lifestyle, napping too much during the day, or an uncomfortable bedroom environment can all throw off your sleep schedule.
Mental and Emotional Health: Anxiety, depression, and stress are major drivers of insomnia at any age, but can be particularly prevalent in later life due to life changes and social isolation.
The Serious Impact of Sleep Deprivation
Don't underestimate the effects of chronic insomnia. It's not just about feeling groggy. Lack of sleep can have serious health consequences for seniors, including:
Increased risk of falls and accidents
Weakened immune system
Poor concentration and memory issues
Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure
Worsened symptoms of depression and anxiety
How We Can Help
Unlike a traditional primary care practice, Dahlia Physician Housecalls offers concierge primary care to seniors in Houston in their homes. By getting to know patients in their homes, we are able to offer a more comprehensive and personalized approach to tackling insomnia. Our concierge model is built on a strong doctor-patient relationship, allowing for the time and attention needed to get to the root of the problem and find the remedy that works for you. No more having to wait until you can get an appointment to ask questions or discuss what is or is not working.
Here’s how we can help:
Thorough Evaluation: As geriatriacians (specialist trained in the care of older adults), we take the time to understand your complete health picture. We’ll discuss your sleep habits, review all your medications, and screen for underlying conditions that might be disrupting your sleep.
Personalized Treatment Plan: We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Your treatment plan might involve:
Medication Review: We will carefully analyze your current medications and, if possible, adjust dosages or timing to minimize their impact on your sleep.
Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes: We can work with you to implement strategies like sleep hygiene practices, creating a bedtime routine, and optimizing your bedroom environment.
Addressing Underlying Issues: Whether it's managing chronic pain, treating sleep apnea, or connecting you with a therapist for mental health support, our geriatrician will address the root cause of your sleep problems.
Ongoing Support: As a concierge practice, we offer continuous support and routine follow-up. We can monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed, ensuring you get the consistent care required to finally get a good night's rest.
Don't Suffer in Silence
Insomnia is a treatable condition, not an inevitable part of aging. If you or a loved one are struggling with sleep, it’s time to seek a proactive solution. We offer concierge primary care at home for seniors in Houston, Texas and we’re here to help you regain your sleep and improve your overall health and well-being.
Ready to get a better night's sleep? Contact Dahlia Physician Housecalls today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation with our experienced doctor.