Is an Elderly Loved One Sleeping Often? Here’s What to Do

It’s normal for our sleep patterns to change, and it’s not uncommon for elderly loved ones to sleep more frequently. While some increased sleep is normal, excessive daytime sleep can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you’re noticing your loved one is sleeping often, it’s important to understand why this might be happening and what steps you can take to ensure they are well cared for.

This guide will help you identify potential causes, when to be concerned and how to address this change in sleep habits.

Understanding changes in sleep patterns with age

As we get older, our sleep patterns naturally shift. Many elderly individuals may find that they no longer need as much sleep at night, or they may struggle with interruptions during the night, such as waking up more frequently or having difficulty falling back asleep. These changes are often linked to the body’s circadian rhythm slowing down. This means that the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle isn’t as aligned as it used to be, which can lead to earlier wake times and feeling more tired throughout the day.

In addition, some older adults may experience more fragmented sleep, which can result in the need for daytime naps to make up for disrupted rest at night. While these changes are typically a normal part of ageing, they can sometimes be indicative of a more serious underlying issue, especially if they’re accompanied by other symptoms or occur suddenly. Understanding these shifts in sleep patterns can help you determine whether the changes are simply part of growing older or if they require further attention.

Common causes of excessive sleep in older adults

There are various reasons why an elderly loved one may sleep more than usual, and it’s important to understand the underlying causes. Some of the most common factors include:

Medical conditions: Certain health issues can lead to excessive sleepiness. Conditions such as sleep apnea, heart disease, diabetes or even infections can disrupt sleep at night, causing tiredness and the need to sleep more during the day. Neurological conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s disease may also cause increased sleepiness or changes in sleep patterns.
Medication side effects: Many medications prescribed to older adults can lead to drowsiness. Medications like sedatives, antihistamines or certain antidepressants may affect energy levels and result in longer periods of sleep during the day.
Poor sleep quality: Older adults often experience lighter sleep, which can lead to waking up multiple times during the night. As a result, they may feel the need to nap or sleep longer during the day to compensate for disrupted rest.
Mental health issues: Depression is a common issue in older adults and can lead to excessive sleep. When dealing with depression, people may experience fatigue and an overwhelming need to sleep more often, sometimes as a way to escape feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

When to be concerned about excessive sleep

While it’s normal for older adults to need more rest, there are times when excessive sleep could be a sign of something more serious. If you notice your loved one is sleeping far more than usual or having difficulty staying awake during the day, it’s worth paying attention to any other changes in their health or behaviour.

Here are a few signs that may indicate it’s time to seek medical advice:

Sudden or drastic changes in sleep patterns: If your loved one suddenly starts sleeping much more or much less than they normally do, this could be a sign that something isn’t quite right and deserves attention.
Struggling to stay awake during the day: If they seem constantly drowsy or are napping excessively, even after a full night’s sleep, it might point to an underlying issue affecting their energy levels or sleep quality.
Cognitive changes or confusion: If excessive sleep is accompanied by forgetfulness, confusion or difficulty concentrating, it could be a sign of cognitive issues, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss: If you’re noticing a loss of appetite or weight loss alongside increased sleep, it could be linked to depression or another health concern that needs to be addressed.

If you notice any of these changes, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Tracking their sleep patterns and any other symptoms can provide valuable information and help their doctor get to the bottom of the issue. Taking these steps early on can make a real difference in their overall well-being.

How to address excessive sleep in the elderly
If your loved one is sleeping more than usual, there are several steps you can take to help improve their sleep habits and overall energy levels. Here are some practical tips that may make a difference:

Encourage regular physical activity: Gentle exercise, such as walking or stretching, can help boost energy levels and improve sleep quality. Encourage your loved one to stay active during the day, but be mindful not to exercise too close to bedtime, as it may interfere with their ability to fall asleep.
Create a consistent sleep routine: Help your loved one establish a regular bedtime and wake-up time. A calming routine before bed, such as reading a book, listening to soothing music or taking a warm bath, can signal to the body that it’s time to wind down. Consistency is key to improving sleep quality.
Limit naps during the day: While short naps can be helpful, excessive daytime sleeping can disrupt nighttime rest. Encourage your loved one to limit naps to around 20–30 minutes, and try to avoid napping late in the afternoon or evening to help them sleep more soundly at night.
Create a comfortable sleep environment: Ensure that the bedroom is quiet, cool and free from distractions. A comfortable mattress and pillows, along with soft lighting, can also make a big difference.
Review medications with a healthcare provider: Some medications can cause drowsiness or disrupt sleep. If your loved one is taking medications that could be contributing to their excessive sleep, it may be worth discussing alternatives or adjustments with their doctor.

Talk to us today

At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home. We are here to support you with various forms of elderly care at home.

Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free, no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.