Why BeeHive Homes Makes Assisted Living Easy

When the time comes to find the right care for a loved one, the decision can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you choose a place that feels like home? At BeeHive Homes, we believe that assisted living in New Mexico should be simple, compassionate, and comforting—for both residents and their families. Here’s why BeeHive Homes is the next best place to home, making everything else easy.

A Homelike Community, Not Just a Facility

Unlike large, impersonal assisted living facilities, BeeHive Homes offers small, family-style residences across New Mexico—from Alamogordo to Santa Fe. Each location, like BeeHive Homes of Four Hills or BeeHive Homes of Roswell, is designed to feel warm and familiar. With personalized care tailored to each resident, it’s no wonder families call us “the next best place to home.” Whether your loved one needs assisted living, memory care, or respite care, our homelike settings provide comfort and connection every day.

Clear Pricing, No Surprises

One of the biggest worries families face when exploring senior living in New Mexico is cost. At BeeHive Homes, we take that stress away with clear, transparent pricing. No hidden fees, no unexpected add-ons—just straightforward information so you can plan with confidence. Whether you’re looking at assisted living care in Clovis or memory care near me in Hobbs, we’re here to make the financial side as easy as the emotional one.

A Seamless Transition to Care

We know moving to an assisted living facility can feel like a big step. That’s why our seamless admission process is designed to lift the burden off your shoulders. From the moment you reach out to BeeHive Homes of Rio Rancho or BeeHive Homes of Farmington, our team handles the details with care and kindness. We’ll guide you every step of the way, ensuring your loved one’s transition is smooth and welcoming—so they feel at home from day one.

Compassionate Care Around the Clock

At the heart of BeeHive Homes is our commitment to compassionate, 24/7 care. Whether it’s memory care in Albuquerque or respite care in White Rock, our caregivers are more than staff—they’re family. They’re there to assist with daily needs, share a smile, and offer peace of mind for families. Aging gracefully becomes easier when you know your loved one is surrounded by people who genuinely care.

Tailored Options Across New Mexico

With locations throughout the state, BeeHive Homes makes it easy to find senior care near you. Need memory care in Deming? Short-term respite care in Gallup? Assisted living in Enchanted Hills? We’ve got you covered. Each BeeHive Homes location offers a unique blend of services to meet your family’s needs, all delivered with the same warmth and dedication.

Peace of Mind for Every Family

Choosing BeeHive Homes means choosing peace of mind. Our small communities foster lasting relationships—between residents, caregivers, and families. It’s a place where stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and everyone feels like they belong. For families across New Mexico searching for elderly care or a senior care community, we’re here to make the journey simpler and more meaningful.

Ready to See the BeeHive Difference?

At BeeHive Homes, we’re proud to offer assisted living, made simple. From our homelike environments to our clear pricing and heartfelt caregiving, we’re here to support you and your loved ones every step of the way. Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a tour at a BeeHive Homes location near you—like BeeHive Homes of Portales or BeeHive Homes of Bernalillo. Let us show you why we’re the easy choice for assisted living in New Mexico.

Spring into Comfort

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Explore Assisted Living

As nature blooms with color and warmth, spring reminds us that every season brings new beginnings. For many families, this season of renewal is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and take those important next steps toward a brighter future—especially when it comes to caring for aging loved ones.

At BeeHive Homes, we believe that spring is the ideal time to explore assisted living in New Mexico. Here's why.

A Season of New Beginnings

Spring symbolizes hope, fresh starts, and positive change. If your family has been considering assisted living, this time of year offers a gentle transition—longer days, sunshine, and blossoming surroundings that naturally lift the spirit.

Moving into a senior care community during spring gives your loved one the chance to:

A Cozy, Homelike Setting

BeeHive Homes isn’t just another assisted living facility—it’s truly the next best place to home. With intimate, residential-style homes and compassionate caregivers available 24/7, our residents receive personalized care with dignity and respect.

Whether your loved one needs help with daily tasks, medication management, or just a little extra support, we provide it all in a warm, loving environment.

Personalized Care, Every Day

No two residents are the same, and we celebrate those differences. That’s why our care is tailored to the individual—fostering independence while offering the support they need to thrive. From homemade meals to engaging daily activities, BeeHive Homes makes each day meaningful.

Peace of Mind for Families ️

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. But at BeeHive Homes, we make everything else easy—clear pricing, a seamless admissions process, and a welcoming transition for your loved one. And for families, that means real peace of mind.

Spring is Calling—Will You Answer? ☀️

If you’ve been wondering when the right time is, this is it. Let this season of renewal be the fresh start your loved one deserves.

Schedule a spring tour at your nearest BeeHive location today and see why families across New Mexico trust us to care for the ones they love most.

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Safe Living for Aging Loved Ones

Assisted Living That Feels Secure and Comfortable

As our loved ones grow older, their home should be a sanctuary of comfort, not a source of worry. Ensuring their space is safe, accessible, and filled with warmth is one of the most meaningful ways to support their independence. Small changes can make a big difference in their daily life, whether they remain at home or transition to a community like BeeHive Homes.

Preventing Falls and Injuries

One of the greatest concerns as people age is the risk of falling. A misplaced rug, a dimly lit hallway, or a cluttered walkway can lead to an accident. Making adjustments like removing loose rugs, securing electrical cords, and improving lighting can instantly make a home safer. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and placing non-slip mats in the shower provides additional stability. Even the choice of footwear matters—sturdy, non-slip shoes help prevent unnecessary slips and falls.

Making Everyday Tasks Easier

Creating an accessible home is just as important as making it safe. Seniors should be able to move around easily and complete daily tasks without frustration. Frequently used items should be within reach, eliminating the need for excessive bending or stretching. If stairs become a challenge, moving essential living spaces to the main floor can make life easier. In the bathroom, a raised toilet seat and a shower chair provide extra comfort and security, making daily routines less stressful.

Preparing for Emergencies

A home should feel safe but also be prepared for the unexpected. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be regularly checked, and emergency contact numbers should be visible and easily accessible. For those who live alone, a medical alert system or wearable device provides quick access to help when needed. An emergency kit with essentials like water, medication lists, and first-aid supplies can also bring peace of mind.

Using Technology for Safety

Technology has made senior safety more intuitive than ever. Motion-sensor lights can brighten dark hallways, while video doorbells allow loved ones to monitor visitors. Automated medication reminders help seniors stay on top of their prescriptions. Voice-activated assistants, like Alexa or Google Home, provide hands-free calls, reminders, and entertainment, helping seniors stay connected and engaged.

Creating a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

A safe space should also feel like home. Familiar furniture, cherished photographs, and sentimental decorations bring comfort. Soft lighting and warm colors create a welcoming atmosphere. Hobbies and personal interests should be encouraged, whether it’s a cozy reading corner or a well-lit crafting space. Most importantly, seniors should be involved in decisions about their space to ensure they feel empowered and respected.

When Home Isn’t Enough: The Benefits of Assisted Living

Despite efforts to make a home as safe as possible, there comes a time when additional care is necessary. Assisted living communities like BeeHive Homes offer the perfect balance between independence and support. With compassionate caregivers available around the clock, secure environments, and a homelike atmosphere, residents receive the care they need while maintaining a sense of familiarity and belonging. When home is no longer the safest option, assisted living provides a nurturing space where seniors can continue to thrive.

Finding the Best Solution for Your Loved One

Aging should never mean sacrificing safety or comfort. Whether through home modifications or transitioning to a trusted assisted living community like BeeHive Homes, creating a secure and welcoming environment is one of the most profound gifts you can give a loved one. If you’re considering the next step for your family member, BeeHive Homes is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can provide a safe and loving home for your loved one.

Embracing History and Community

Why Parker, CO Is a Wonderful Place for Assisted Living

Nestled comfortably amid the rolling hills and striking countryside of Douglas County lies Parker, Colorado—a charming town where history meets natural beauty. Known for its welcoming spirit and scenic landscape, Parker provides an ideal backdrop for seniors looking for comfort, care, and community in their retirement years. At BeeHive Homes of Parker, we're proud to offer compassionate, personalized assisted living and memory care services that complement the town’s distinct charm and history.

Parker’s Rich and Vibrant History

Originally established as Pine Grove in 1864, Parker, Colorado, began as a simple waystation for stagecoaches, providing travelers with rest, refreshment, and respite along their journey through the Colorado frontier. It wasn't until 1882 that the town was officially renamed Parker, after James Sample Parker, who established the local post office and became an influential figure in the area.

Throughout its history, Parker blossomed from humble beginnings into a thriving town. Today, its streets hold echoes of the past, where historic landmarks sit side by side with contemporary comforts. From the renowned Twenty Mile House, a stagecoach stop on the old Smoky Hill Trail, to vibrant modern-day parks, Parker offers residents the chance to live in a community that values history while embracing growth and progress.

The Natural Beauty of Parker’s Countryside

Nestled at the foot of the Colorado Rockies, Parker’s landscape boasts breathtaking beauty throughout every season. From gently rolling hills to expansive open spaces and picturesque trails, the town and its surroundings offer endless opportunities to appreciate the splendor of nature. BeeHive Homes of Parker captures this beauty, creating a tranquil home-like environment perfectly suited for seniors who enjoy Colorado's peaceful countryside and clean mountain air.

Parker’s scenic parks, including the renowned Cherry Creek State Park, provide a tranquil escape filled with walking paths, lush greenery, and wildlife. Residents at BeeHive Homes benefit from the area's serene backdrop, creating an ideal atmosphere for peaceful living, reflection, and personal rejuvenation.

The Charm of Parker, Colorado

What makes Parker especially charming is its strong sense of community. The town proudly hosts seasonal events, farmers' markets, and festivals that foster community spirit and togetherness. With a population of friendly locals, welcoming neighborhoods, and an inviting historic downtown, Parker naturally creates the kind of warm community that BeeHive Homes seeks to emulate within our assisted living home.

BeeHive Homes complements the town's culture by fostering genuine connections between residents and caregivers, enriching the lives of everyone who calls our home theirs. With personalized care, residents can continue to thrive, celebrating the bonds of friendship and family-like connections that naturally develop in our smaller, attentive setting.

Why BeeHive Homes of Parker?

BeeHive Homes of Parker is built on the belief that seniors deserve compassionate, dignified care that respects their individuality. As part of our mission, we understand each resident's unique story, offering tailored care that supports personal independence and enhances the quality of life.

Here are some reasons why BeeHive Homes of Parker stands out:

Parker, Colorado: A Town with a Heart—and a Home

BeeHive Homes of Parker enhances the spirit of our beloved town by embodying its warmth, history, and welcoming charm. We're dedicated to offering a senior living experience that feels like family, complete with compassionate care, meaningful connections, and the comfort of knowing that your loved one is thriving.

If you or a family member are considering assisted living, memory care, or respite care in Parker, Colorado, we invite you to schedule a tour and see for yourself the BeeHive Homes difference. Our doors—and hearts—are always open.

Welcome home to BeeHive Homes of Parker.

Compassion and Comfort Come Together

At BeeHive Homes, we believe that assisted living is more than just care—it’s about connection, community, and comfort. Every day, we witness the magic that happens when compassionate caregivers and vibrant residents come together in a homelike environment. From the joy of sharing stories around the dinner table to the reassurance of knowing someone is always there to help, BeeHive Homes is a place where life continues to be full of purpose and warmth.

A Place Where You Belong

Making the move to assisted living can feel overwhelming, but at BeeHive Homes, we make the transition easy. Our small, intimate communities ensure that every resident receives the personalized attention and care they deserve. Whether it’s a gentle reminder to take medication, a helping hand with daily activities, or just a friendly conversation over morning coffee, our team is here to make every day feel safe, comfortable, and fulfilling.

The Power of Compassionate Care

Our caregivers aren’t just staff—they’re family. They go beyond providing assistance; they build relationships, share laughter, and create meaningful moments with residents every single day. We know that kindness and empathy make all the difference in senior care, and it’s these qualities that have helped many of our BeeHive Homes locations earn awards for excellence in care.

A Life Well-Lived, Every Day

A fulfilling life doesn’t stop with age—it evolves. Our residents continue to find joy in friendships, take part in fun activities, and enjoy the simple comforts of home-cooked meals. From bingo nights and community gatherings to relaxing afternoons in cozy common spaces, we make sure that life at BeeHive Homes is always engaging, enriching, and full of heart.

See the Difference for Yourself

If you or a loved one is considering assisted living, memory care, or respite care, we invite you to experience the warmth of BeeHive Homes firsthand. Schedule a tour today and see why so many families trust us as the next best place to home.

Because at BeeHive Homes, care isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.

Sleeplessness In Older And Aging Adults

Sleeping as we Age

Have you noticed that as we age, genuine, deep sleep is more and more difficult to attain?  Many people blame this sleeplessness on the aging process, but is it right to do so?  There are certainly many older persons who can sleep well through the night.

Why Don't I Feel Rested?

Sleeplessness is caused in part by the aging process.  As we age, our bodies produce lower amounts of growth hormone while we rest.  This can result in making it harder to fall into a deep sleep.  Our bodies end up requiring more sleep to get the same amount of "rest" when compared to our younger years.  We will want to go to sleep earlier and wake up earlier.  We may also need to take a nap during the day to make up for the lost rest.  So what steps can we take to try to get a good night's rest again?

A Hard Day's Work

First, we can ensure that we have been active during the day.  As we age and go into retirement or stop working a regular job, it oftentimes gets harder to sleep at night, but not because of any health concerns.  Rather it is because enough energy has not be expended during the day to make us sufficiently tired at night.  Though our minds may refute this argument, the truth is, our bodies NEED certain levels of work or activity throughout the day in order to rest properly at night.  If our bodies don't have a sufficient level of activity, they also do not recognize or trigger the need for rest.  We need to try our best to raise our activity level during the day, finding work and exercise that's appropriate for our abilities at this stage of life.  Work hard and later enjoy a more restful night's sleep.

Clocks and Time Schedules

Consistent Sleep Routine

Another helpful step that we can take is to establish a regular routine of waking and sleeping.  Sometimes, as we age, our schedules can be thwarted by illness, aches, incontinence or even just out of boredom.  We find ourselves dozing at various times during the day.  Yet not able to sleep later, or staying up later watching television and sleeping in later in the morning.  Whatever schedule we decide makes us feel best, we should stick with it on a daily basis in order to obtain the most restful night's sleep possible.  Our sleep patterns are rhythmic and throwing off that rhythm can have an adverse effect on our sleep at night.

Turn off the T.V

Cutting off any screen time in the evenings a couple of hours before sleeping will help notify your body that it's time to begin winding down to rest.  That means perhaps not texting or video chatting with your friends and family after a certain hour.  Choose quieter activities that are not as stimulating, such as crossword puzzles, restful music, reading books, playing solitaire, etc.  Help your body to be able to identify the cut off time from evening activities to sleeping time by establishing a nightly routine.  Soon enough, you will find yourself longing to retire for the evening and looking forward to the rest that comes with it!

Doctors Orders

Finally, if you are still having problems sleeping after all of these steps, talk with your doctor.  See if your doctor can suggest any other steps or changes you might make in your life.  Your doctor may also be able to diagnosis if you have insomnia or other sleep depravation conditions.  Supplementing melatonin is an option for some people.  Others might need something a little stronger in order to help them set the rhythm of sleep again.  Before you head to the doctor, however, be sure that you've tried everything in your power to re-gain sleep in a natural way.  Older adults tend to take more medications than younger people and the combination of drugs can sometimes impair sleep.  Natural sleep patterns will always trump medicated ones.

Time for Bed

Sleeplessness is frustrating and tiring by very definition!  Even though we won't sleep like babies as we grow older, we can take many steps to improve the rest we are getting.  Relax, don't stress and soon enough you'll be dreaming of the good old days again!

Moving to Assisted Living? How to Downsize

 

 Downsizing is one of the most popular trends around the nation right now.  There are as many motivations to downsize our lives as there are lives.  Some downsize in order to move into tiny houses, some downsize in order to simplify their lives, or to allow them more time to travel.  Today we're going to talk about downsizing our possessions in preparation for a move into an assisted living situation.

How many of us are living with entirely too many items in our possession?  If we're honest, probably nearly every person in our country could stand to shed some excess in this area.  We've all got excess.  If you raised a larger family, especially on a homestead or farm, you most definitely have excess.  We're not here to examine how we find ourselves in such a situation, however, but rather how to deal with getting rid of some of the excess so that we can move forward into a healthier atmosphere for us!

The house.  What to do with the house?  It's a hugely daunting question if you've never considered how to make a transition from owning your own home to living somewhere else.  There is a proverb that says, “How do you eat an elephant?  One bite at a time.”  This is precisely how you'll need to deal with getting rid of your house & possessions, one small step at a time.  First, know that you will not be able to do this alone, or quickly.  It will take time.  The first step would be to get an assessment on the value of your home/property.  Check with a local realtor with whom you can list it if you will be needing the income in order to fund your move into an #assistedlivingfacility.  If you do not need that extra income, consider giving it as an inheritance to someone you love, or preparing to sell it in order to gift the profit for those you love.  When you begin discussing the process with your family, be prepared for all kinds of emotional responses.  People have a number of emotions that are connected with places and memories & it is natural to see a full spectrum.  If there is a smooth way to pass it on or sell it to a family member without causing resentment, do so, otherwise you should feel no guilt at selling it on the market to avoid resentment between family members.

Once you've answered the largest question, you'll more than likely have an easier time with the smaller things you need to deal with.  It will also help you in other areas.  If you're selling or gifting the house, you'll have a time frame within which to work in order to have your things taken care of.  You can decide whether your large appliances or farm tools will convey with the house or property.  The smaller items will become much easier to handle.

Beginning with the more valuable furniture and possessions, decide which things give you joy & those that you'd like to have around you for the remainder of your life. Do not feel guilt about having them moved.  Do you enjoy playing an instrument?  Will you have room in the place you're moving to? Bring it along & you'll find that after you've downsized, you'll have more time to practice.  Do you have a favorite hobby?  Bring the items along that will enable you to participate in the hobby as long as possible.  Downsizing does not mean getting rid of everything you enjoy, but rather narrowing your scope to keep only those things that you DO enjoy and ridding yourself of the rest.

If you can, try to go through your home in categories & move as quickly as you can from one category to the next.  Discard those things that have no value to you or others.  Donate those items that have use to a charity.  Goodwill is working together with USPS to accept items that you ship free of charge.

You'll have obvious needs where you're going.   If you need kitchen items, consider which ones are the most pertinent to your situation.  Now is a good time to get rid of the excessive kitchen gadgets, pan collections, tea sets, silver service, etc.  If you're moving to a smaller location, you'll more than likely not be the one hosting large family gatherings & will, therefore, need fewer kitchen items.  Keep basic linens & clothing items.  Keep photos that are meaningful to you, distribute the rest that may hold more meaning for others in your family.

Above all, keep the lines of communication open with all of the people who will be affected by the decisions you're making.  You want this move to be a positive one for you and for your family, so don't allow petty miscommunications and misunderstanding to ruin the good things that can come from this time of transition.  Moving is always stressful, but taking it one step at a time, one day at a time, you'll be able to accomplish the huge task of downs

18 Activities for Senior Citizens Pt. 2

  If you have somehow found this article without reading Part 1, you may want to go back and read through the introduction.  You'll find helpful information there to spur your own creative thoughts on this subject and give you the “why” behind the projects that I've highlighted here.  I hope you find at least a couple of useful activities in this 2 part list as you seek to encourage those you care for and give them new goals to reach and life to live!

10. Another option is to consider clay as a very forgiving activity.  Having a sculptor come to give lessons is not out of the question, or perhaps consider a video tutorial.  Clay can be squished and re-made countless times as a person seeks the form they would like.  If they are so inclined, they could practice on malleable clay & then purchase another type of clay for baking into a final project that they might find useful.  There are even colorful clay-like materials that can be baked and made into erasers! 

11.  Food sculpture is a great way of increasing fruit and vegetable intake as well as engaging the whole person. Learning how to carve radishes and cucumbers and eating their mistakes will be enjoyable and funny.  Their final product could be presented at a group meal for all to enjoy.

12.  Lighting or clockwork might be of interest to some senior citizens who are even mildly mechanically inclined.  This could also serve a practical purpose if they need a bit of extra light in a corner of their room to make a cozy reading or listening area.  Materials to make lamps are incredibly variable, but all lamps have very basic “guts” inside.  Clockworks, likewise have very basic parts and their faces can be as varied as the people making them!

13.  A very practical class on making your own hygiene products might be interesting to certain individuals.  Making toothpaste pellets or tooth powder, lotions that are effective for aging skin, nourishing, non-drying deodorants with beneficial essential oils, salves, & etc. encourages the use of all of the senses, except perhaps taste! 

14.  Learning slight of hand or card tricks to share with young visitors might encourage someone to reach out in a new way to forge a friendship.  It also engages the mind as you try to master some of these things while watching yourself in the mirror!

15.  Balloon twisting, likewise has great potential for helping them connect with a young generation and perhaps even teach them how to twist balloons.  It is incredibly easy on arthritic hands and great fun for all involved.

16.  Leather work of heavier or thinner leather employs many faculties, as well as being a useful and creative outlet.  Consider belts, wallets, camera/phone pouches or even smaller projects like photo frames and bracelets.

17.  Book binding is incredibly fun for all ages.  Learning the basics of book stitching will then enable people to bind together several things that are meaningful to them, whether they be postcards from their travels, notes taken over a course of years but placed into different notebooks that they want to bind together as one, or even to make their own bound book of scratch paper or recipes.

18.  Finally, soft metal work or punching.  Many people enjoy this old time skill.  Punching a bit of tin or other thin sheet metal to let light through a lantern or let air into a cabinet may still have useful applications, though it will mostly be for decorative use these days.  Create a candle sconce that has punched tin, or perhaps even a framed piece. Perhaps create several panels for a box or cabinet or as the backing on a bookshelf.  The cabinetwork itself may be beyond the scope of ability for the person in your care, but the tin punching may not be.

  Be sure as you mull over all of these ideas to keep the person/persons you are working with in mind.  If they aren't able to do the full project, can they do parts of it?  Do they have certain aversions or disabilities that will make it impossible to accomplish the task with joy?  The intent is not to frustrate, but to give them new things to think about, new ideas to try & a feeling of pride in their newfound skill and craftsmanship.  After all, how many times when we are young do we say, “I'd love to do that when I have more time...”?  It is a difficulty in life that when we have all kinds of strength and ability we have very little time.  When we have more time, our strengths and abilities decrease.  I'm sure that this behooves us to develop patience with ourselves, but it can be frustrating.  If someone you are working with is getting frustrated by their lack of strength or dexterity, gently encourage them that the project need not be finished quickly, but well & that they can do it in increments that are fitting for their current ability.  In all things, enjoy yourselves!

Nature and Dementia

All of us have probably experienced the benefits of nature at one time in our lives or another.  The calming sound of waves on the beach, the gentle rain on a roof or the canopy of the forest, or even the calm breeze through the pines can knock our anxiety levels down a few notches.  What few people realize, however, is that there is genuine scientific evidence that reveals that which we’ve all experienced…nature is good for us!  It’s even better for those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s.

It is so good for us, in fact, that in Finland regular doses of nature incorporated in their governmental health policy.  They may prescribe a walk in a natural area as treatment for anxiety, alcoholism, attention problems or depression.   But Finland is not alone as a country finding ways to combat the ailments of our century.  South Korea, Canada & the US are all studying nature’s effects on the human psyche.  Many questions are being answered as scientists delve into these areas of study, but it is mostly confirming what we all seem to know intuitively.  Nature is good for us.  It calms us down & helps us become more thoughtful.

Because Dementia & Alzheimer’s can be diseases that have some social stigmas attached to them, the diseases themselves are often accompanied with extreme depression or anxiety.  Regular outings into nature are incredibly helpful for those suffering from any of these diagnoses.  When you’re in nature, none of those things matter so much.  You can find a beautiful caterpillar, for instance, and be allowed time to pay attention to the exquisite detail of something that is currently in front of you without needing to remember its relationship to everything else in your world.  You can watch it for a long period of time without needing to rush.  You can remain calm & it will not judge your actions.  You are given time to think, to wonder & to be amazed.  You are given the freedom to be you. 

Of course, it is prudent to have someone along with you on your trips into nature.  We are not advocating that patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s wander in the woods alone as treatment.  But, as often as possible help those you care about to experience nature in meaningful ways.  Perhaps they’d like to bring along drawing supplies, or a camera for the outings.  Meaningful occupations that will bring attention & mindfulness are never amiss with patients & loved ones that struggle with these diseases.  It will likely improve their (and your) quality of life for years to come!

 

 

Age & Sleeplessness

Have you noticed that as you age, genuine, deep sleep is more & more difficult to attain?  Many people blame this sleeplessness on the aging process, but is it right to do so?  There are also, certainly, many older persons who can sleep well through the night.  So what steps can we take to try to have a good night's rest?

First, ensure that you have been active enough during the day.  As we age and go into retirement or stop working a regular job, it oftentimes gets harder to sleep at night, but not because of any health concerns.  Rather it is because enough energy has not be expended during the day to make us sufficiently tired at night.  Though our minds may refute this argument, the truth is, our bodies NEED certain levels of work or activity throughout the day in order to rest properly at night.  If they do not have that level of activity, they also do not recognize the need for rest.  Try your best to raise your activity level during the day, finding work that's appropriate for you and your abilities at this stage of your life.  Work at it with joy & later enjoy a more restful night's sleep.

Another helpful step that one should take is to establish a regular routine of waking and sleeping.  Sometimes, as we age, our schedules can be thwarted out of boredom.  We find ourselves dozing at various times during the day & not being able to sleep later, or staying up later watching television and sleeping in later in the morning.  Whatever schedule you decide makes you feel best, you should stick with it on a daily basis in order to obtain the most restful night's sleep possible for yourself.  Our sleep patterns are rhythmic & throwing off the rhythm can have adverse effects of our rest at night.

Also, cutting off any screen time in the evenings a couple of hours before sleeping should help to notify your body that it's time to begin winding down to rest.  Choose quieter activities that are not as stimulating, such as crossword puzzles, restful music, reading books, playing solitaire, etc.  Help your body to be able to identify the cut off time from evening activities to sleeping time by establishing a nightly routine.  Soon enough, you will find yourself longing for that time of day & looking forward to the rest that comes with it!

Finally, if you are still having problems sleeping after all of these steps, talk with your doctor about it & see if he/she can suggest any other steps you could take. Melatonin is an option for some people, others need something a little stronger in order to help them set the rhythm of sleep again.  Before you head to the doctor, however, be sure that you've tried everything in your power to re-gain sleep in a natural way.  Your body & mind will thank you for it!