Question

Which of the following may improve the sleep of an older adult client?

A. Drinking an alcoholic beverage before bedtime
B. Using an OTC sleeping agent
C. Eliminating naps during the day
D. Going to bed at a consistent time even if not feeling sleepy

Answer 1

To improve sleep in older adults, it is advised to eliminate naps during the day and to maintain a consistent bedtime schedule, avoiding the use of alcohol and OTC sleeping agents.

Step-by-step explanation:

Improving Sleep in Older Adults

Older adults looking to improve their sleep should consider various behavioral adjustments. Of the options provided, eliminating naps during the day (C) and going to bed at a consistent time even if not feeling sleepy (D) may improve sleep quality. It is important to establish a regular sleep-wake cycle to maintain the body's circadian rhythm. Drinking an alcoholic beverage before bedtime (A) and using an OTC sleeping agent (B) are not typically recommended, as they can lead to disruptions in sleep quality and potential dependence, respectively.

Effective Sleep Habits

• Avoiding naps to ensure a better night's sleep is a common recommendation.
• Maintaining a cool bedroom temperature between 60 and 67 degrees helps facilitate sleep.
• Avoiding alcohol and heavy meals before bed is key as these can disturb sleep by affecting REM cycles and causing gastric distress.
• Creating an association between the bed and sleep is essential. If one can't sleep, it's advised to leave the bed and engage in a quiet activity until sleepiness returns.
• Consistent sleep schedules and avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime also contribute to better sleep quality.

Answer 2

The most effective approach to improving sleep for an older adult client is to go to bed at a consistent time, as it helps to synchronize the body's internal clock, despite not feeling sleepy (option D). Avoiding alcohol and over-the-counter sleep aids can prevent sleep disruptions and dependency.

Step-by-step explanation:

In answering the question "Which of the following may improve the sleep of an older adult client?" the best option for promoting healthy sleep habits is D. Going to bed at a consistent time even if not feeling sleepy. This aligns with sleep hygiene principles that advocate for a regular sleep schedule, which can help regulate the body's clock and facilitate more consistent and restful sleep over time.

Contrarily, A. Drinking an alcoholic beverage before bedtime can disrupt REM sleep and cause frequent awakenings. Utilizing B. An OTC sleeping agent may lead to dependence and alter the natural sleep cycle. Moreover, C. Eliminating naps during the day could be beneficial, as long naps or naps taken late in the day can interfere with nighttime sleep.

Hence, the answer is option D.