Lying awake while staring at the ceiling—or tossing and turning from one side to the other—is a familiar situation many older adults have experienced.

For the lucky, this may happen rarely and is only an infrequent inconvenience. But if you find the dream of restful sleep harder to discover, it can not only make you tired and sluggish the next day but can also negatively affect your physical and mental health.

The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep

Take a look at the influence and impact that sleep can make:

Enhanced Memory and Cognitive Function: Quality sleep helps the brain process and consolidate memories, improve concentration and sharpen problem-solving skills.
Improved Emotional Well-being: Adequate sleep can help balance moods. Getting the right amount of rest can also reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Together, this contributes to a more positive outlook on life.
Better Physical Health: Good sleep supports the immune system and can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.
Improved Metabolism and Weight Control: Sleep helps regulate appetite hormones and supports proper metabolism.
Better Heart Health: Regular, restful sleep can lead to a lower risk of heart disease as well as lower blood pressure.
Increased Longevity: Consistent good sleep is associated with a longer lifespan due to its overall positive impact on physical and mental health.
Enhanced Social Relationships: Well-rested individuals are more likely to engage in social activities, maintain healthy relationships and feel connected to their community.
Increased Energy and Productivity: Good sleep boosts energy levels, making daily tasks and activities easier to perform.
Reduced Risk of Accidents: Better sleep improves alertness and body coordination, which can in turn lower the risk of accidents and injuries.
Improved Physical Mobility: Quality sleep promotes muscle repair and recovery, improving physical strength, mobility and balance.

10 Tips for Achieving Restful Sleep

It’s one thing to understand the benefits, but what if you can’t attain healthy rest regularly? These tips can help you increase your chances of blissfully falling asleep:

Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule: Consistency is key when it comes to the time you go to bed and wake up. Keep a regular schedule every day — including weekends.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Meditating, reading a good book or listening to favorite soothing music are all activities that can help create a calming routine before bedtime.
Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make sure your bedroom is cool, quiet, and dark. Consider using blackout curtains, earplugs or a white noise machine if needed.
Take a Break from Your Laptop and Smartphone: Electronic devices can disrupt your ability to fall asleep. Research has shown that the blue light can interfere with your sleep schedule.
Watch Your Beverages: Avoid caffeine or alcohol in the evening or as it gets closer to bedtime.
Stay Active During the Day: If you want to feel tired naturally and ready for bed at night — stay active during the day. However, avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime.
Manage Stress: Try to manage your stress daily and create a routine of deep breathing or meditation to relax your mind before sleep.
Limit Naps: If you must nap during the day, it’s best to limit the time to 30 minutes. Make sure you avoid napping late in the afternoon to prevent interference with nighttime sleep.
Avoid Heavy Meals: Many people find it helpful to eat their larger meals earlier in the day and enjoy a lighter supper before bedtime.
Seek Professional Help: If sleep problems persist after trying these suggestions, you may want to talk to your doctor so you can address whether sleep apnea or insomnia is the problem.

Independent Living at Presbyterian Village North

At our independent living and assisted living communities, we recognize the impact that having a tribe can mean to the quality of our residents’ overall well-being. We strive to create an environment that promotes connections, encourages social engagement and nurtures a sense of belonging.

We see firsthand how the network of connections empowers our residents to live their best lives—surrounded by a community that celebrates their individuality while encouraging a collective sense of purpose and fulfillment.

At Presbyterian Village North, we offer spacious studio, one- and two-bedroom residences that can be personalized to create a home where our residents will live their highest quality of life.

Imagine a well-stocked library, private dining room available for family celebrations and endless opportunities to make new friends and memories — all with the reassurance of living in a gated community with around-the-clock security.

We also provide the following services:

Licensed nursing staff onsite 24/7
Medication management administered by certified medication aides
Assistance with activities of daily living
Chef-prepared cuisine—meals per day with varied, all-day dining options
Dedicated Assisted Living Concierge
Special activities and social programs
Access to a full continuum of care
Expanded gym and aquatic center
Music and art programming
Physical, occupational and speech therapy
Convenient access to mobile healthcare services onsite including dental, podiatry, optometry, audiology, mobile x-ray and lab, and dietician
Full onsite pharmacy
And so much more!

Presbyterian Village North supports our residents to remain as independent as possible while living an enriched life. Please call 214-355-9015 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personal visit to our community.