There are many benefits of weighted blankets for the elderly. They can help to decrease anxiety, promote relaxation, improve sleep quality, and reduce pain. Weighted blankets can also help to improve circulation and increase range of motion.
This article will tell you about the problems seniors face while sleeping and the help of best-weighted blankets for the elderly in solving or minimizing some of them.
The pressure from the weighted blanket can also help to improve circulation and reduce pain.
Causes of Sleep Problems in the Elderly
There are many possible causes of sleep problems in the elderly. These can include medical conditions, medications, sleep disorders, and lifestyle factors.
Medical conditions that can cause sleep problems include pain, arthritis, heart disease, COPD, asthma, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Medications that often affect sleep quality include beta-blockers, diuretics, and antidepressants.
Sleep disorders that interfere with relaxation and rest include insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome.
Lifestyle factors that can cause sleep problems include stress, anxiety, depression, and poor sleep habits.
What Is a Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is filled with small pellets or beads that add weight to the blanket. This extra weight provides a deep pressure touch stimulation, which has a calming and relaxing effect on the body.
Weighted blankets are often used to help people with anxiety, autism, and other conditions that can benefit from Deep Pressure Touch Stimulation (DPTS).
Tips for choosing the correct weight
If you are an adult, you should choose a weighted blanket that weighs 10 percent of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should choose a weighted blanket that weighs 15 pounds.
If you are buying a blanket for a child, it is recommended that you choose a blanket that weighs 10 percent of their body weight plus one to two pounds. For example, if your child weighs 50 pounds, you should choose a blanket that weighs six to seven pounds.
Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Seniors
There are many reasons why weighted blankets are good for seniors:
- one reason is that weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. The weighted blankets provide deep-touch stimulation, which can help to release endorphins and reduce cortisol levels. This can help to improve mood and promote relaxation. Additionally, weighted blankets can help to increase serotonin levels, which can improve sleep quality;
- another reason why weighted blankets are good for seniors is that they can help to improve circulation and reduce pain. The deep pressure touch stimulation provided by weighted blankets can help to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation. This can help to reduce pain and improve overall mobility. Additionally, weighted blankets can help to reduce the symptoms of conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain;
- weighted blankets are also good for seniors because they can help to improve cognitive function. The deep pressure touch stimulation provided by weighted blankets can help to increase blood flow to the brain and improve oxygenation. This can help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, weighted blankets can help to improve sleep quality, which can further improve cognitive function;
- in conclusion, weighted blankets are good for seniors for many reasons. Weighted blankets can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, improve circulation and reduce pain, and improve cognitive function.
Below we’ll take a more detailed look at the main benefits of weighted blankets for the elderly.
Improved sleep quality
Weighted blankets have been shown to improve sleep quality in older adults. One study found that seniors who used weighted blankets felt more rested and had less anxiety than those who did not.
Weighted blankets are thought to work by applying gentle, constant pressure that relaxes the body and promotes a feeling of safety and security. It can help older people fall asleep and sleep longer.
Reduce stress and anxiety
Weighted blankets are often used to reduce stress and anxiety levels in older adults. The pressure from the blanket is thought to stimulate the central nervous system and release happiness hormones, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Studies have shown that weighted blankets help create a sense of calm and relaxation in older adults, as well as reduce heart rate and blood pressure.
Manage symptoms of neurological diseases
Weighted blankets can help older adults manage symptoms of neurological disease in several ways.
First, blankets can help reduce anxiety in older adults with neurological conditions. This is because weighted blankets create a sense of security and comfort for the older person, which can help them calm down.
Second, weighted blankets can also help increase serotonin levels in older adults suffering from chronic pain and fibromyalgia. This is because the pressure of the blanket on the body helps stimulate the release of serotonin, which is a natural pain reliever.
Finally, weighted blankets can also be helpful for older adults with restless leg syndrome (RLS). This is because the pressure of the blanket can help alleviate the discomfort associated with this disorder and promote better sleep.
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket for the Elderly?
When choosing a weighted blanket for the elderly, it is important to consider the following factors.
First, a weighted blanket should not be too heavy. For some people, a heavy blanket can make sleep uncomfortable and cause pain. It is better to choose a lighter weighted blanket.
Second, the blanket should be breathable to avoid overheating while you sleep. Blankets made of 100% cotton, nylon or polyester are all good choices.
Third, the best options have the weight distributed evenly throughout the blanket.
Finally, it is important to consult a doctor before purchasing a weighted blanket to make sure it is right for you.
Are There Risks in Using a Weighted Blanket?
There are some risks associated with using a weighted blanket, such as :
- the blanket may be too heavy for some people, which may make them feel claustrophobic or uncomfortable;
- the blanket may not be evenly distributed, which can create pressure points and cause discomfort;
- some people may be allergic to the materials used in the construction of the blanket, such as fabric or filling;
- the blanket can cause overheating, which can be dangerous for people with certain medical conditions;
- the blanket may not be washable, which can lead to hygiene problems;
- the blanket may shift during the night and cause discomfort or sleep disturbance.
FAQ
Are weighted blankets safe for the elderly?
Weighted blankets are usually safe for the elderly, provided they do not pull the blanket over their face. Weak seniors should use as light a weighted blanket as possible to avoid entrapment or injury if they are unable to get the blanket off.
Are weighted blankets good for seniors?
Many seniors find that weighted blankets help them feel more secure and relaxed, which can improve their sleep quality. In addition, weighted blankets can alleviate conditions such as anxiety, restless legs syndrome, and insomnia.
Ultimately, it is important to consult with your doctor before using a weighted blanket to make sure it is the right treatment option for you.
Are weighted blankets suitable for the elderly?
The researchers found that seniors who used weighted blankets reported better sleep quality and less anxiety than those who did not use weighted blankets. The seniors who used weighted blankets also reported feeling more relaxed and less agitated during the day.
Is a weighted blanket useful for people with arthritis?
Many people with arthritis find that weighted blankets help reduce pain and improve sleep quality. Also, weighted blankets help reduce stress levels, which can be helpful for people with arthritis.
If you are considering using a weighted blanket for arthritis pain relief, it is important to consult with your doctor first to make sure it is safe for you.
Can weighted blankets cause circulation problems?
Weighted blankets can cause circulation problems in people with diabetes. The heaviness of the blanket can further restrict circulation, which can lead to health complications. If you have diabetes, it is important to speak to your doctor before using a weighted blanket.
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Conclusion
There are a number of reasons why weighted blankets can be helpful for the elderly. First, weighted blankets can provide a sense of comfort and security, which can be especially important for those who suffer from anxiety or insomnia. In addition, the extra weight of a blanket can help improve circulation and alleviate pain. Finally, weighted blankets are thought to help reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation.
We hope that our article will be helpful to you if you want to buy a weighted blanket for the elderly. If you still have questions, leave them in the comments.
References
- Medical conditions – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disease
- Cognitive function (short-term memory) – https://www.britannica.com/science/short-term-memory
- Weighted blanket (Do Weighted Blankets Help With Sleep?) – https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/sleep/basics/do-weighted-blankets-help-sleep.htm?srch_tag=eqtgeg7cuwzdwm7xha4bfkkt7auspwoa
