Geriatric Care Manager in Rancho Bernardo: Weighted Blankets Gain Popularity

As we age, many of us start to notice health issues that we never struggled with before. Whether arthritic joints, a less reliable memory, or a combination of other factors, these issues are unwelcome but persistent additions to our lives. Insomnia is a very common but serious problem for many seniors under the care of a geriatric care manager. In Rancho Bernardo, a recent news story highlighted a new product that may help the elderly get a better night of sleep.

Why We Can’t Sleep

Our body puts itself to sleep each night and wakes itself up each morning with chemicals called serotonin and melatonin. When you can’t fall asleep, it’s usually because the brain is not producing enough serotonin to send you to dreamland. Conversely, when you can’t seem to wake up fully in the morning, your melatonin levels are lower than normal. Chronic insomniacs have a constant imbalance in these chemicals, feeling awake during the night and drowsy all day.

Weighted Blanket Science

In their efforts to discover a way to prompt the brain to produce the right chemicals at the right times, scientists found that a little extra weight at bedtime is a positive factor. They began experimenting with weighted blankets and saw benefits not only for seniors, but also for younger people who suffer from ADHD and constant stress. Apparently, the sensation of the extra weight soothes the body and encourages it to relax for a good night of sleep.

Ask a Geriatric Care Manager in San Diego County for More Information

A weighted blanket may be the solution to your elderly loved one’s sleep issues (or your own!). For more information and for help with the many other facets of caring for a senior family member, talk with a geriatric care manager in San Diego County. You may find that both you and your aging parents will sleep more easily!