The therapy blanket for seniors - for healthy sleep without sleeping pills

It is a myth that seniors do not need much sleep. Sleep helps regenerate the body, strengthens the immune system, and influences our overall well-being. Therefore, seniors should get enough sleep to feel refreshed in the morning and ready for the challenges of the coming day. But is there a way for seniors to enjoy an even healthier and longer sleep? And why is the therapy blanket a good way for older adults to achieve exactly that?

Why do seniors have trouble sleeping?

There are various causes of insomnia. They include chronic pain, stomach problems, incontinence, or issues affecting the nervous system. Especially the latter are a common cause of sleep problems.

One should be aware that the nervous system in seniors is already severely weakened but still exposed to stress, for example caused by disruptions in routine, worsening health conditions, or lack of independence. All of this affects the stimulation of the nervous system and thus leads to sleep disorders.

But sleep problems themselves are also part of a vicious circle, as they cause additional stress, which in turn makes falling asleep even more difficult.

The later stage of life is also the time when critical neurological diseases occur - Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or depression. These can also be causes of sleep disorders.

The therapy blanket - healthy sleep without medication

The therapy blanket, also called a sensory blanket, looks no different from a regular blanket. The secret of this blanket lies within its weight. Weight and dimensions are perfectly matched to the weight and size of the person using the blanket.

The therapy blanket is an alternative to sleeping pills and addictive stimulants. But how does it work? Through the even distribution of weight on the body, or more precisely, through the resulting concentrated pressure on individual body parts (muscles, joints, tendons), you can calm down and relax.

The pressure of the therapy blanket mainly contributes to the production of more serotonin, a monoamine neurotransmitter, which can have a positive effect for those suffering from depression, neuroses, autism, or similar disorders.

Therapists also noticed that those who sleep under the weighted blanket showed less mobility during sleep. With the help of the blanket, it is therefore easier to control trembling of the hands or other body parts.

The therapy blanket also increases the feeling of security and reduces anxiety during sleep. This is important for seniors with restless legs syndrome, Parkinson's, anxiety disorders, narcolepsy, depression, and many other conditions.

How can you recognize good and healthy sleep?

The quality of sleep is measured by its duration and the time it takes to fall asleep. It is assumed that proper sleep should last no less than 6.5 hours. This also applies to seniors. They should not forgo these phases of relaxation, as they are just as important for the body as the daily supplements and medications many seniors take. In fact, enough sleep is even more important than other forms of therapy because it offers opportunities for natural regeneration and well-being.

Another important feature of healthy sleep is its continuity. Sleep interruptions are natural; we all wake up frequently for fractions of a second without noticing. However, it is important that the total of these wake phases does not exceed 30 minutes overall.

Doctors also pay attention to whether the sleep is peaceful. It is worth asking family members if their loved ones snore or sleep restlessly.

However, the best test remains our own well-being and the energy we should gain from effective and healthy sleep.

Guest article by Julia Fischer (2018), state-certified therapist