Boomers Not Getting What They Need in the Bedroom

(NewsUSA) - America's baby boomers, those between the ages of 44 and 62, are not getting what they need in the bedroom: sleep. Quality sleep is necessary to look and feel your best each day, but according to a recent sleep survey of U.S. boomers conducted by the Better Sleep Council (BSC), 75 percent of boomers are logging less than the recommended eight hours of sleep each night. Even more alarming, one-sixth of today's 82 million boomers have difficulty sleeping every night.

The good news is that getting a better night's sleep can be as simple as making a few changes to the bedroom environment and everyday sleep habits.

"A good night's sleep is vital to proper health and well-being at any age; it's critical to look, feel and perform your best," says Karin Dillner, director of communications of the BSC. "What many people may not realize is that you don't need to go to extremes to get better sleep. It could be as simple as enhancing your sleep surroundings."

For better sleep, the BSC recommends incorporating these tips into your everyday routine:

- Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. Unwind before bedtime by soaking in a hot bath or hot tub and then reading a book or listening to soothing music.

- Exercise regularly. A regular exercise regimen helps keep you fit and also helps you sleep better at night. But avoid really strenuous exercise right before bedtime.

- Avoid eating right before bed. Finish eating at least two to three hours before your regular bedtime, and avoid heavy meals late in the day.

It's also important to evaluate your sleep environment and sleep equipment. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, comfortable, cool, uncluttered and free of laptops and televisions. Next, take a look at your mattress. It should be supportive and cradle you with comfort. If your mattress is five to seven years old, or if you wake up with stiffness, aches or pains, it's time to evaluate and consider replacing your mattress.

"As we age, our bodies' needs for comfort and support change," Dillner says. "The best-quality mattress is simply the one that meets your own personal needs for comfort and support."

For more helpful tips on how to get a better night's sleep, visit www.bettersleep.org.

"Article By: NewsUSA"