Symptoms and causes of insomnia in the elderly
Insomnia in the elderly refers to people aged 60 and above who have persistent problems falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up early, which seriously affects the quality of life. Insomnia in the elderly is often accompanied by a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including feeling tired during the day, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood, and lack of interest in social activities.
There are many causes of insomnia in the elderly, including changes in living circumstances (such as retirement or relocation), medical problems (such as chronic pain or breathing disorders), mental health problems (such as depression and anxiety), Medication side effects and poor sleeping habits. Understanding an individual\'s specific background and targeting their specific causes is key to effectively dealing with insomnia in the elderly.
Non-drug treatment methods
For the common insomnia problem among the elderly in Beijing, we recommend non-drug treatment methods. Maintain a regular schedule in your daily life and set up a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment. Avoid non-sleep-related activities in bed, such as watching TV or using your phone.
Aerobic exercise is also an effective way to help the elderly improve their insomnia. Properly scheduling exercise and choosing the right intensity and type of exercise can improve physical activity and mental health, thereby promoting better sleep.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a method of improving sleep quality by adjusting an individual\'s views and behavioral habits on insomnia. Its goal is to help the elderly reshape positive and healthy sleep beliefs and establish normal and regular work and rest habits.
Cognitive behavioral therapy includes the following aspects: establishing a stable and relaxing pre-sleep routine to reduce anxiety; maintaining adequate and moderate energy activities during the day to increase sleepiness; During this period, avoid paying too much attention to time and take relevant coping measures (such as leaving the bedroom) to relieve anxiety and restore good sleep.
Pharmacotherapy
Medication can be an effective option in older patients with insomnia, but it needs to be used with caution. Medication is often an option considered when other non-drug treatments are ineffective or inappropriate.
Insomnia-related drugs routinely recommended by doctors in Beijing include hypnotic tranquilizers and antidepressants. However, when using these drugs, attention should be paid to their dosage, time and duration, and they should be monitored and adjusted strictly under the advice of a doctor. At the same time, try to avoid long-term dependence on drugs to avoid problems such as dependence and withdrawal reactions.
Psychological counseling and support
Providing psychological counseling and support is also an important link for individuals with insomnia among the elderly. By listening to their inner needs and helping them solve themMental distress and providing emotional support to help reduce anxiety, restore emotional balance, and improve sleep quality.
There are professional psychological counseling institutions and community service centers in Beijing to provide psychological counseling services for the elderly. When receiving psychological counseling, the elderly can actively express their inner doubts and emotional distress, and gradually restore a healthy sleep state with professional help.
