(Family Features) Sleep is a priority for holistic health, but many women aren’t getting enough of it. Not only does it affect your overall health, but stress-related sleep loss also makes it difficult to maintain focus and energy throughout the day.

Sleep Habits for Women

Nearly half (45%) of women ages 40-60 lose more than two hours of sleep each night due to spiraling thoughts with 10% reporting losing more than four hours of sleep, according to Natrol’s Sleep Spiral Survey, revealing challenges women in this age range face for achieving quality sleep.

“Busy women often struggle with sleep due to lingering stress and anxiety from managing work, family and personal responsibilities, which can lead to spiraling thoughts, keeping the mind active at night,” said Dr. Shelby Harris, a sleep expert and director of sleep at Sleepopolis.

According to survey participants, personal finances are the top sleep disruptor, with 50% of women citing concerns over money as the primary reason they can’t fall asleep most nights. Additionally, 45% of women cite anxiety about the future often keeping them from falling asleep.

Seasonal factors can also impact a good night’s rest. The holiday season is the most challenging time for sleep, with 51% of women experiencing increased late-night thoughts during this period.

Understanding the cause of your sleep disruption is an important step toward improving your sleeping habits, especially since 1 in 3 women have more difficulty sleeping now than they did one year ago.

Regain control of your sleep with these tips:

Set the scene for sleep. Harris recommends updating your sleep environment for better results.

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“Avoid bright light and limit screen time at least an hour before bed and focus on creating a cozy sleep environment that suits your needs for quality rest,” she said. “Choose comfortable bedding, set the room to a cool temperature and incorporate soothing sounds like a white noise machine or fan to set yourself up for a good night’s sleep.”

Establish a consistent bedtime routine. You can teach your body to anticipate bedtime and ease into better sleep. Begin preparing for bed at the same time each night and go through the same ritual. That might include grooming and self-care habits to help you wind down for the night.

Consider a sleep aid supplement. Many women (1 in 4) often simply give up trying to fall asleep when experiencing spiraling thoughts, with 89% at least occasionally giving up on sleep altogether and choosing to get out of bed. Melatonin supplements can help calm the mind before bed so you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep.^† Consider Natrol’s selection of drug-free Melatonin Gummies, which can help manage occasional sleep disruptions and support quality sleep.

Take steps to manage stress. Prioritizing stress relief can benefit your overall health along with helping you get better rest. Engaging in relaxing activities like reading, meditating or listening to music can be especially helpful in the evening to clear and soothe your mind before you head for bed.

Harris recommends talking with your doctor if you’ve tried various sleep hygiene strategies and find you’re still struggling to get restorative sleep.

“You can discuss whether a sleep aid such as melatonin is appropriate for you and align on the right amount and timing to address your sleep concerns,” she said.

Find more ideas to support better sleep health at Natrol.com.

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Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
Natrol

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

(Family Features) If current trends continue, decades of gentle teasing and jokes about older adults’ confusion with technology may be on their way out. Not only do digital tools and technology help this generation stay connected to family and friends, but technology is also making it more practical for these individuals to remain independent and age in place.

Older Adults Digital Literacy

Assistive and health-related technology is also on the rise, according to a “U.S. News & World Report.” Tools like medical or health apps, wearable trackers, hearing devices and some smart home products make it easier and safer for older adults to age in place. 

Whether for social, practical or entertainment purposes, growing your confidence with technology and digital tools can be a slow, steady process that allows you to increase your comfort level while building a solid understanding.

Boost your digital literacy with these tips from the tech experts at Cox Communications:

Find resources that allow you to participate in digital literacy education. Many community groups offer classes geared toward older adults, and you can also find resources from internet providers. If you’re comfortable searching the internet, you can also find support groups and user-friendly guides online. 

Slow down.When it comes to digital literacy, the internet can be fast-moving, which can be overwhelming for older adults who are not used to the environment. The pace can also expose you to the risk of cybercrime. Approaching online activity in small bites may help you take in a manageable amount of information and process it before piling on more information. 

Research options. With so many technology devices and services available, it’s possible, and even advisable, to explore the various options before making a purchase or signing an agreement. Consider the features you need against your budget to make the best choice. For example, options like Cox Communications’ Connect Assist program can help you find fast, reliable and affordable internet plans to fit within your retirement budget.

Take breaks. Digital media can become addictive for older adults; with so much to see and learn, it’s easy to lose literally hours. That’s why it’s a good idea to take a balanced approach and limit the time you dedicate to your smartphones and computers each day. 

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Use digital media to improve connections.Social media and online groups can add social connectivity, but this digital interaction shouldn’t replace your personal relationships. Be sure to prioritize live social connections, and don’t use digital media in place of conventional in-person connections that can provide important benefits for your overall physical and mental health.

Stay informed about cybercrime. Because of their limited experience with technology, older adults are major targets of cybercrime. Stay informed about methods and tactics used by these criminals so you can protect yourself, your identity and your assets.

Use strong passwords. If your memory isn’t what it used to be, you may be tempted to repurpose your passwords so you don’t have to remember as many. Unfortunately, that approach may mean that if someone figures out how to access one account, they have access to many more. Create passwords that are a mix of letters, numbers and symbols and write them down in a safe place. Generally, it’s best to avoid using easily guessed information like birthdays and names of children.

Be cautious about what you read and share online. If something seems questionable, verify it with multiple sources before accepting it as true.

Explore more resources for older adults in this digital age at cox.com/digitalequity.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
Cox Communications

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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In-Store This Saturday, 10/19

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J. /PRNewswire/ — Party City, leading retailer for all things Halloween, announced they will hold an exciting in-store Trick or Treat Sweepstakes event this Saturday, October 19 from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, where shoppers can enter onsite at all participating Party City store locations to win a grand prize of $10,000, plus additional prizes.

Halloween Treats

Here’s a roundup of prizes winners of the Trick or Treat Sweepstakes will receive:

• Grand Prize: One (1) Grand Prize Winner will be awarded a check in the amount of $10,000.
• Signed Book Prizes: Ten (10) lucky winners will receive one “Signed Book Prize” including an autographed copy of “Trick or Treat on Scary Street” authored by Lance Bass, published by Union Square Kids.

While there can only be a lucky few prize winners, all Party City customers this Saturday can hit it big with great deals on Halloween items, including unbeatable low prices on premium bags of candy.

Anyone is encouraged to wear a costume, trick or treat, and shop the best last-minute Halloween deals.

Void where prohibited. No purchase necessary. Sweepstakes available at participating Party City locations only. Visit https://www.partycity.com/trick-or-treat-sweeps.html now for sweepstakes details and to find a Party City store near you.

About Party City 

Party City is a global leader in the celebrations industry, delivering joy and inspiration to customers across more than 70 countries. As North America’s largest party goods retailer, Party City is the go-to shopping destination for every type of celebration, offering an extensive and innovative selection of products at exceptional value. 

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With a strong omnichannel presence, Party City continues to grow its eCommerce business, PartyCity.com, while the company’s over 700 company-owned and franchise store locations across North America remain an integral piece of their business to allow consumers to experience their products first-hand. The company also operates Amscan, a premier designer, manufacturer, and distributor of celebration products including décor, tableware, costumes, and accessories. 

Headquartered in Woodcliff Lake, N.J., with additional locations in the Americas and Asia, Party City is committed to helping customers create unforgettable moments for every occasion.

For more information, visit www.partycity.com. 

SOURCE Party City Holdings Inc.

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.