Why do we struggle to sleep as we age?

10/05/2010 by admin.

It’s a myth that we need less sleep as we get older.  However, it is true that many people find it more difficult to get a good night’s sleep as they get older.  Some of the reasons for lack of quality sleep are:

• Health problems can interrupt a good night’s sleep due to pain or breathing difficulties. Some illnesses might cause anxiety which can interfere with sleep.
• Certain medications can play havoc with your body’s natural hormones and therefore impacts sleep.
• A change in lifestyle such as being less active and napping can impact sleep. 
• As we get older we generate less growth hormone and melatonin, both of which contribute towards a settled night’s sleep.
• Stimulants such as cigarettes, alcohol and coffee.  You should consume any stimulants in moderation and not within 3 hrs of bedtime.

You can see how important it is to look after your health and keep active to aid a good night’s sleep as we get older.

I’ll follow up with some tips for getting a good night’s sleep.

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