Napping leads to increased activity

This news item appealed to me in two ways: I love to recommend sleeping. And I love a good oxymoron.

Yes, sleeping will make you more active. This is especially true for old, retired type adults. Experts at the University of Survey discovered that older people often eschewed the mid afternoon nap, worried that family or friends would brand them as old and/or weak. But new studies show that the occasional nap can help older people revitalize and contribute to a more fully active life. Naps increase energy and interest in recreational and social activities.

Susan Venn of the Department of Sociology stated, “Sleep is central to health and well-being, but as people get older, the quality of their sleep deteriorates. They shouldn’t feel guilty or think themselves lazy for having a nap.” Here, here.

Older people also have disturbed sleep patterns, something I have first hand knowledge of. Many times the sleep deprived will resist a nap in the afternoon only to fall asleep right after dinner. They wake in an hour and realize it’s bed time leading to a vicious cycle of unproductive attempts for quality sleep.

And then there’s the midnight potty run which also disrupts sleep cycle. Many older folks try to cut down on fluid during the day which can lead to dangerous dehydration.

And sleeping pills provide additional concerns. They can remain in the body and cause problems with disorientation and balance. Many older people are afraid of falling or losing balance which would cause long term injury.

So the best advice is to nap at a regular time every day. Stay active and tire the body every day. Drink fluids but refrain from drinking too much on the back half of the day. And explore alternative herbal treatments, massage and acupuncture. They can all be good for relaxing the body – at any age.

Source: University of Surrey, ScienceDaily