A new study shows that bright light therapy can help seniors get better sleep.
According to a report by Health Day, new research published in the Journal of Pineal Research finds that “light therapy lamps improved the sleep cycles and activity levels of older adults in cities who had diminished exposure to natural light.”
The new study provides “real-world evidence that light is a simple, non-pharmacological and potentially cost-effective intervention, which, from a public health policy perspective, could help support healthy aging.”
Exposure to daytime light is crucial to regulate our circadian rhythms and our sleeping patterns. Lack of exposure to good light can lead to sleep and health problems, increasing the risk of chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. This study is promising because it shows that light therapy can replace exposure to sunlight, which often happens with older adults in urban areas due to the decline in their eyesight or mobility issues that prevent them from going outside.
Check out our other articles on Council of Seniors 365 for more advice on leading a healthy and happy retirement.
