Are you getting enough sleep?

Here’s our guide to getting a better sleep

Has your sleep suffered lately? You may be feeling anxious and stressed of late and this could be affecting the amount and quality of sleep you get. And age-related factors can also affect when, how much and how well you sleep. It’s important to identify the causes as a lack of good sleep can affect your mood, memory and concentration. It can also increase your risk of suffering from serious health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Sleep can boost your immune system so it’s really important that you get enough.

Sleep and age

Sleep patterns can alter as you get older. This could be because of hormone changes, a health condition, such as diabetes or a prostate issue, or certain medications.

As you age your body produces lower levels of growth hormone resulting in a decrease in deep sleep. This means you produce less melatonin causing you to wake up more often in the night. If you suffer from any pain or discomfort this can also keep you awake at night.

A drop in estrogen during the menopause may cause symptoms such as hot flushes, sweats and anxiety which can disrupt a woman’s sleep.

The National Sleep Foundation advises that 18 to 64 year olds need between seven to nine hours sleep, whereas those over 65 need seven to eight hours. However, most people find they have a harder time falling asleep as they age. They also tend to wake up more frequently in the night and wake earlier in the morning.

 
Tips for a better night’s sleep

• Make sure your room is cool. Too warm and it’ll make you restless.
• Listen to calming music, meditation podcasts, or ocean or forest sounds before bed.
• Avoid eating two to three hours before you go to bed.
• If you nap in the day, do it early in the afternoon.
• If you’re taking any medication to keep any pain and discomfort at bay, you can register with Echo by LloydsPharmacy and get it delivered. You’ll nod off knowing they’re taking care of your repeat prescription, so you can tick it off your to-do list.

REGISTER ONLINE FOR ECHO BY LLOYDSPHARMACY HERE

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