A 73-year-old patient reports to the nurse about waking up early and not being able to return to sleep.The patient states,"I do not go to bed until after the evening news." What is the best advice for the nurse to give this patient to encourage a good night's sleep?

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Older patients become sleepier in the early evening (going to bed when the body is naturally sleepy is beneficial)and wake earlier in the morning,but still require the necessary 7 to 8 hours of sleep a day.Going to bed later would not be beneficial.Research indicates that exercise is beneficial,particularly for older adults,to improve nighttime sleep.General recommendations include increasing daytime activity or exercise,not taking a nap.The use of benzodiazepines in the older adult population is potentially dangerous.Long-term use and high doses in this population have been associated with suicidal ideation.

A 73-Year-Old Patient Reports to the Nurse About Waking Up