What are the solutions for insomnia in the elderly?

In general, sleep difficulties in the elderly refer to insomnia. Insomnia in older adults may be caused by aging, poor sleep habits, psychological factors, hypertension, heart failure, and other reasons. It can be alleviated through non-pharmacological interventions and medication. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

With advancing age, there is a reduction in neural cells and melatonin secretion, which directly affects sleep quality and circadian rhythm. Daily intake of foods rich in melatonin, such as millet, walnuts, and bananas, may be beneficial.

2. Poor Sleep Habits

Irregular sleep schedules, excessive excitement or anxiety before bedtime, and prolonged daytime napping are poor sleep habits that can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, increase nighttime awakenings, and reduce total nighttime sleep duration. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding stimulating activities before bed, and limiting daytime naps are recommended.

3. Psychological Factors

Anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional fluctuations can over-activate the nervous system, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Soaking feet in warm water before bedtime may help promote physical and mental relaxation.

4. Hypertension

High-salt diets can lead to high blood pressure. Hypertension may cause symptoms such as headaches and dizziness, which often worsen at night, leading to difficulty falling asleep and subsequent insomnia. Additional symptoms may include tinnitus and blurred vision. Elderly patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as nifedipine controlled-release tablets, levamlodipine maleate dispersible tablets, and metoprolol tartrate sustained-release tablets as prescribed.

5. Heart Failure

Heart failure is commonly caused by aging, resulting in declining cardiac function and reduced pumping capacity of the heart, leading to poor circulation and contributing to insomnia in older adults. Symptoms may also include fatigue and weakness. Under medical supervision, medications such as digoxin tablets, compound isosorbide mononitrate sustained-release tablets, and sacubitril valsartan sodium tablets may be used for treatment.

In daily life, elderly individuals should maintain regular sleep routines, eat a balanced diet to supplement beneficial substances like melatonin, manage emotions, and reduce stress to support good sleep quality and overall health.