Sleep and Older Adults PDF

SLEEP AND OLDER ADULTS Prof. Eljohn P. Zulueta, RN, MAN, PhDc Sleep Disorders Sleep is considered a time of restoration for our bodies and minds. Sleep is necessary to: – heal wounds – maintain normal hormonal function – provide sound emotional stress The Circadian Rhythm ...

SLEEP AND OLDER ADULTS Prof. Eljohn P. Zulueta, RN, MAN, PhDc Sleep Disorders Sleep is considered a time of restoration for our bodies and minds. Sleep is necessary to: – heal wounds – maintain normal hormonal function – provide sound emotional stress The Circadian Rhythm Sleep Changes Associated with Aging Components of Sleep Cycle 1. Nonrapid Eye Movement (NREM) Sleep 2. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep Sleep Cycle (90 minutes) NREM Sleep N1 Stage I Transitional Stage usually lasts less than 7 minutes Very light sleep Reduced brain-wave activity Slow eye movement N2 Stage II Deeper relaxation Light sleep N3 Stages III and IV Deep sleep (slow wave sleep) Restorative sleep (tissue healing) ↓ pulse rate ↓ blood pressure ↓ metabolism REM sleep Follows after the 4 Stages of NREM Deepest state of relaxation Muscles become inactive and immobile Vivid dreaming Increased brain activity ↑ blood pressure ↑ heart rate ↑ respiratory rate Active inhibition of voluntary muscles Types of Sleep Disturbances Insomnia Sleep Apnea Restless Leg Syndrome INSOMNIA More prominent in women Genetic (first degree relatives) Environmental Factors (noise and temp) Treatment: – Benzodiazepines – Hypnotics – Antidepressants (PLMD) Interventions/Strategies for Care Sleep Hygiene Environmental Restructuring Relaxation Aromatherapy Herbal Therapy Medications