PATIENT of the MONTH
The Importance of a Good Night’s Rest
Cynthia Eames ST. JUDE
QUALITY SLEEP PROMOTES HEALTHY AGING
Sleep is an essential part of our lives, but it becomes even more important as we get older, as it’s a necessity for healthy aging and staying energized. Ideally, everyone should sleep between 7.5–9 hours a night, but as we get older, this becomes much harder to achieve. Health complaints, minor disturbances, and a decrease in melatonin levels make it difficult for seniors to get a full night of sleep, which can cause irritability and fatigue.
In order to combat these disturbances, here are a few things you can do to ensure you get enough sleep during the night.
Build an active daily routine. Outdoor exercise and general movement every day is good for your body, but being outside and absorbing sunlight can balance and optimize your melatonin levels, which can help you fall asleep easier. On top of exercise, try weaving protein-rich snacks and meals into your routine. Foods like light meat and nuts can improve sleep quality, and dairy foods contain tryptophan, which is a sleep- promoting chemical. Eliminate unhealthy substances. Limit your intake of caffeine and sugar throughout the day — especially right before bed — for better rest. It’s also best not to drink anything about an hour before bed, so you don’t wake up in the middle of the night to use the restroom and disrupt your sleep. Regulate your sleep schedule. Keeping the same schedule for sleeping can reap immediate benefits. You will notice increased alertness during waking hours as well as enhanced memory and attention span. You may also start to feel tired around the same time every day, ensuring that you will actually go to sleep right on schedule. It can take time and patience to adjust to new habits to improve sleep, especially for the elderly. It won’t happen overnight, but the benefits that come with a better night’s sleep will have you feeling younger and healthier than ever before. If anything, you will feel more engaged and happier throughout your daily life.
“I chose St. Jude. They help children and their families battling cancer, infectious disease, blood disorders, and tumors. Children are our future; we need to take care of them. 82 cents of every dollar support the treatment, research and future needs of St. Jude. They have been nominated for the Best Children’s Hospital, and they consistently rank as one of the best places to donate to.” –Cynthia Cindy came to ProPT after a significant injury and surgery. The first couple of weeks were tough. However, her positive attitude, compliance with her home exercises and physical therapy appointments, and motivation to get better helped her get to where she is today! She is now walking normally and has full range of motion. She is currently working on the last bit of strength she needs to be back at 100%. You’re a rock star, Cindy! Keep up the great work! You are almost there, and congrats on being patient of the month! We at Professional Physical Therapy would be honored to donate to the charity of your choice if you become our next Patient of the Month!
2 www.proptinc.com • 508-528-6100
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