Good night, sleep tight

A good night’s sleep allows us to start each day rested and rejuvenated – so choosing the right bed is important

There is a commonly held belief that older people don’t need as much shut-eye as younger people do, but according to the US National Sleep Foundation, all adults require between seven and nine hours a night, regardless of their age. However, many elderly people fall short of their optimum slumber time, with 44 per cent of America’s elderly population experiencing some form of insomnia. And, while all of us the day ahead, for older people it can seriously increase the risk of falls or other injury and lead to cognitive decline.

The wide-awake club

sleep problems as we age? If you problems, such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, arthritis or an enlarged prostate, it can be harder to fall asleep. Joint problems can comfortable position, while less serious conditions such as restless your slumber. Prescription or over-the counter-medication can hinder your sleep, too, so if you are taking any drugs on a regular basis, it may be worth discussing it with your GP.

Changes in your daily routine and reduced levels of physical activity, perhaps due to retirement or health issues, can also mean you endure a restless night as your body’s circadian rhythms struggle to adapt.

Bedding down

If you’ve ever slept on a mattress that’s too soft or hard for your liking, you’ll know how the right sleep. As your body ages, choosing a bed of quality becomes ever more important. The right mattress can support the spine and other joints, ensuring good posture and reducing the pain and discomfort of conditions such as arthritis, while an adjustable positions to suit individual needs or preferences.

For example, those with respiratory concerns are often advised to raise their head above their chest to alleviate any breathing problems, while people with circulation issues may need to raise their legs to aid improved feature motorised mechanisms with independent controls for each occupant, ensuring bespoke positions and optimum sleep quality. And of course, with a raised upper body, fully supported by a quality mattress, you can comfortably read or watch television in bed without straining your spine or neck.

Once you have your bed sorted out, it’s important to ensure your bedding is right for you: if you are struggling to get comfortable or go through phases of feeling cold or hot during the night, consider bedding. If you’ve always used sheets and blankets, try a duvet – and seek advice on what might suit your preferences. And think about such as wool, cotton, silk and linen have breathable qualities and wick moisture away from the body, so you feel more comfortable.

It’s also worth changing your pillow and seeking expert opinion on the optimum type for you – it’s no longer a case of simply buying a understanding of how best to support the neck and spine in now an array of pillow types – and amazed how the right pillow can