Daily naps can create a vicious cycle that disrupts normal sleep patterns, making it harder to sleep well at night. Sleep experts caution seniors to limit naps to 30 minutes or cut them out completely if they interfere with regular nighttime sleep. Seniors should consult with their physicians. Staying active, tackling intellectual tasks and exercising regularly are at the top of the experts' list of ways to combat sleeplessness. They recommend maintaining a moderate level of exercise and going outdoors during daytime.
Studies show that people who get natural daylight sleep better at night.
Older adults also need to watch what they eat and drink. Drinking alcohol before bed makes it harder to sleep as well. Experts advise looking in the bedroom for potential sleep problems. A good sleep environment is one that is quiet, dark and on the cool side. Seniors should check their mattresses, too.