Do Most People Over 60 Nap During the Day?

As someone who has just turned 69, I can confidently say that the struggle with daytime naps is a common one among the elderly. While some individuals may find the need to take a nap in the afternoon, others, like myself, struggle with the concept. My journey with daytime napping began recently, and I thought it was solely due to the natural process of aging. However, my experience has led me to understand that there are underlying factors contributing to this phenomenon.

The Curious Case of Daytime Napping in the Elderly

I have never been a napper, even after my 35th birthday. But in recent years, I've found myself battling overwhelming yawning in the late afternoon, particularly when I was seated. Working at a treadmill desk helped me stay alert while standing, but still, the fatigue persisted. At first, I blamed it on "getting old," but as it turned out, that was only part of the story.

The Cause of Daytime Sleepiness in the Elderly: Poor Sleep Due to Apnea

The true culprit behind my afternoon drowsiness was revealed through a resurging apnea issue. I had been diagnosed with sleep apnea a couple of decades ago and had managed it by sleeping on my side, which worked wonders. However, as the years went by, this approach no longer sufficed due to my arthritic shoulders no longer accommodating this position comfortably.

The consequential change in my sleeping posture led to increased snoring at night, as my wife so helpfully pointed out. This issue posed a serious risk, especially considering that I mostly work from home. Imagine the potential danger of falling asleep at the wheel on the way home from the office! It was a wake-up call to address my sleep apnea once again.

Fixing the Sleep Apnea Issue

A visit to another sleep doctor and a revisit to a nearly 20-year-old sleep study paved the way for a new prescription and, finally, a CPAP machine. The CPAP machine, a device that helps to keep the airways open during sleep, has been a game-changer for me. After just a few nights of use, I've noticed a significant improvement in my alertness and overall mental clarity during the day.

My decision to forgo the nap is now straightforward. Even if I do feel tired during the day, I combat it by taking a brisk walk. The simple movement is enough to stimulate blood circulation and provide me with the energy I need to stay alert.

Living with Chronic Insomnia

For those over 60 who struggle with daytime napping, the situation might feel even more challenging. I, too, have dealt with chronic insomnia, making it impossible for me to nap intentionally, even when I really want to. Not getting enough sleep during the night exacerbates the issue, resulting in crankiness and fatigue throughout the day. It's a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break, especially when the underlying cause is disrupted sleep patterns.

Instead of relying on naps, finding alternative ways to combat daytime sleepiness, such as engaging in physical activity or taking short walks, can be beneficial. These simple actions can help enhance circulation and provide a natural energy boost.

In conclusion, while some elderly individuals may find the need to nap during the day, it's not a universal phenomenon. Factors such as sleep apnea, poor sleep quality, and chronic insomnia play significant roles in this process. A combination of medical interventions and lifestyle changes can help improve daytime alertness and overall well-being among the elderly.