Home Care in Stamford, CT – Recharge Your Body and Mind as a Family Caregiver

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of a healthy life. More sleep means a better immune system, an improved memory, and better concentration throughout the day. That’s because a lot happens when we sleep: memories are processed and stored, vital organs are able to rest, sore muscles or ailments are able to heal. When you’re caring for an elderly parent, often you think sacrificing sleep is okay to have time for all that you need to do.

In fact, it’s healthier and much better to get the sleep you need and have to accomplish less things in one day. You can bring in home care to help with your elderly parent if you need more time for your own kids and your life apart from caregiving. Remember that if you don’t care for yourself first, you won’t be able to care for your elderly parent as well.

Why Sleep is So Important

Getting the recommended amount of sleep is vital to staying healthy. Countless studies have shown that skimping on sleep is as dangerous as drinking too much or consuming unhealthy foods. Here are some general tips to help you sleep better and to build a better sleep routine:

• Don’t sleep in – Try to get up around the same time each day, including the weekends. While many people think it is beneficial to sleep-in, this only pushes back the time you’ll go to sleep at night. Maintaining a consistent wake up time will keep a healthier sleep cycle.
• No cat naps – Taking a nap less than 10 hours after you wake up could be debilitating to your sleep cycle. Naps could result in a deep sleep and grogginess if you have to wake up quickly. Also, naps could mean more restlessness later on when you try to go to sleep at night. If you do nap, try to keep it between 10 and 20 minutes.
• Cut out alcohol – Alcohol is a deterrent for the quality and length of sleep. Try to abstain from having a drink 2 hours before your bedtime.
• No afternoon coffee - Many studies say 1 cup of coffee can be healthy for you. But after that, the health benefits decline. Consuming any type of caffeine can be detrimental to you sleep schedule, as it can take up to a day for caffeine to leave the body. Caffeine can also be found in tea, chocolate, and soda.
• No smoking – Like caffeine, nicotine is also a stimulant and should not be consumed at least 4 hours before going to bed.
• Exercise regularly – Exercise helps increase the quality of sleep, but avoid any strenuous activity at least 4 hours before sleep.
• Have a good sleeping environment – Your bedroom should be comfortable temperature, with minimal levels of light and noise. Letting some sunlight in during the morning can be good for your internal clock and sleep cycle.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Stamford, CT or the surrounding areas, please contact SYNERGY HomeCare of Stamford, CT at (203) 340-0652.