Cracking the Code: Sleep Solutions for Teens and Retirees
Episode Overview
Teenagers need 8-9 hours of sleep but face challenges due to school start times. Retirees often struggle with adjusting their sleep schedule post-retirement. Sleep medications help with falling asleep but don't improve overall sleep quality. Cognitive behavioural therapy is effective for managing insomnia. Light exposure in the morning can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
"We learn when we sleep. Sleep is critical to processing information, throwing out the riffraff, being able to focus on what's important."
What are the common struggles and victories in addiction recovery? In this episode of Sleep Science Today, Andrew Colsky welcomes Dr. Helene Emsalem, a renowned sleep doctor, to shed light on the mysteries of sleep. They dive into the peculiar sleep patterns of teenagers and retirees, highlighting how biological rhythms and lifestyle changes impact sleep quality. Dr. Emsalem shares her expertise on the importance of understanding teens' sleep needs, especially when they're juggling school start times and social pressures.
Retirees, on the other hand, face different challenges as they adjust to a more flexible schedule. The conversation takes an engaging turn as they discuss the effectiveness of sleep medications and common misconceptions about them. Dr. Emsalem emphasizes that while medications can help with falling asleep, they don't necessarily improve sleep quality. Instead, she advocates for cognitive behavioural therapy as a more sustainable solution.
The episode is packed with practical advice, such as the benefits of napping and how to manage early morning awakenings without disrupting your entire day. Whether you're a parent dealing with a grumpy teen or a retiree trying to make the most of your golden years, this episode offers insights that can help improve your sleep habits. So, are you ready to unlock the secrets of a good night's sleep?
Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let Andrew and Dr. Emsalem guide you through the fascinating world of sleep science.