Because seniors who snore often have sleep apnea and may be at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease and strokes, it’s important to figure out how to stop this nighttime habit. The staff at Waterloo Home Care Assistance suggests the following preventive measures to help your senior loved one snore less, sleep better, and stay healthy.
By Losing Weight
Shedding extra pounds can help your loved one snore less. The National Institutes of Health stated extra fat around a senior’s neck could cause his or her airway to become narrower and less likely to remain open, which can lead to loud snoring. This is especially true when men are overweight because they tend to put on weight in the neck.
By Taking a Steamy Shower
Taking a hot shower before bed can help open your loved one’s nasal passages and make breathing easier. The water should be as hot as possible without being an unsafe temperature. This will produce a lot of steam, which can help more effectively clear out his or her nasal passages. Another option your loved one has for relief is to use a form of nasal irrigation such as a neti pot to clear out his or her passages in the shower.
By Staying Away from Alcohol Before Bedtime
According to directors at the Drexel Sleep Center in Philadelphia, seniors who have an alcoholic beverage within four hours before bedtime greatly increase their chances of snoring. This is because the alcohol relaxes the face and throat muscles, which could interfere with breathing and make them go into a deeper sleep. A deep sleep can increase your loved one’s chances of snoring or make the snoring louder.
By Using a Humidifier
Dry air is known to irritate membranes in the throat and nose, which can make a senior more apt to snore. To help combat this, your loved one can put a humidifier in his or her bedroom. A humidifier can help keep the air moist, which can make it easier for your loved one to breathe and drastically reduce his or her snoring.
Getting a good night’s rest is an important part of maintaining a healthy, mind, heart, and immune system. If your loved one needs help managing his or her sleep hygiene habits, turn to Home Care Assistance. Our caregivers are available 24/7 to ensure your loved one remains safe, healthy, and comfortable at home, whether he or she is sleeping or awake. We also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, stroke, and Parkinson’s care Waterloo families trust. For more information on our senior care services and to schedule a complimentary consultation, call one of our friendly Care Managers at (519) 954-2111 today.