By Latha Raja Shankar, M.D., Chief Medical Officer and VP of Health Care Delivery at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
A question I hear often is: “Does sleep really matter as we get older?” The answer is an enthusiastic, yes! As a health care professional, I cannot overstate the value of a good night’s sleep for everyone, including seniors. Sleep is more than just rest; it’s a powerful tool for maintaining overall health, preventing illness and preserving independence.
Why Is Sleep Important?
As we age, our bodies and minds need more recovery time. Quality sleep helps to:
- Strengthen the Immune System: Sleep helps your body fight illness, making you less susceptible to infections.
- Support Memory and Brain Health: While you sleep, your brain processes memories, helping you stay sharp and focused during the day.
- Promote Heart Health: Adequate sleep lowers your risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
- Balance Mood: Poor sleep can make you irritable or anxious. Good sleep supports emotional wellbeing.
- Maintain Energy: A well-rested body is more likely to stay active, which is key to overall health.
Tips for Good Sleep Hygiene
Getting quality rest isn’t always easy, but you can take steps to improve your sleep:
- Stick to a Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
- Create a Bedtime Ritual: Wind down with a calming activity like reading, soft music or gentle stretching.
- Limit Daytime Naps: If you nap, keep it under 30 minutes and avoid napping late in the day.
- Mind Your Diet: Avoid caffeine, large meals and alcohol close to bedtime.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity, even a daily walk, helps you sleep better at night.
- Make Your Bedroom Sleep-Friendly: Keep your room cool, quiet and dark. Use comfortable bedding and limit screen time before bed.
- Talk to Your Doctor: If you struggle with sleep, don’t hesitate to ask your health care provider for help. Some medications and health conditions can affect sleep, and solutions are available.
Remember, sleep is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Prioritize your rest, and your body and mind will thank you! Learn more about health and wellness at connect.bcbsnm.com.
If you have a health question that you would like to be considered in Ask a Health Care Professional, please email [email protected]. BCBSNM will select questions that may appear. Questions will not be personally answered. The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and not necessarily those of BCBSNM. This column is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.
