Alternative Treatments For the Elderly To Restore Their Quality of Deep Sleep

The Potential of New Alternative Treatments to Restore Deep Sleep of the Elderly

The biggest sleep related problem for elderly is that they are unable to obtain the same amount and quality of deep NREM sleep compared to younger adults. This is discussed in detail on the page focused on the Importance of Sleep Throughout our Lives. The consequences for their health are severe. Nowadays, much research is being conducted in order to develop alternative methods of treatment to restore some quality of deep, stable sleep in the elderly. A type of treatment that seems very promising involves different methods of brain stimulation at night. There exist two types of brain stimulation methods.

Electrical Stimulated Pulsation to Amplify Deep Sleep Brainwaves

The first promising alternative method of brain stimulation is electrical stimulated pulsation. The goal of this method is to electrically amplify the quality of the deep brainwaves of older adults. Small controlled electrical pulsations are applied during the deepest stages of NREM sleep in rhythmic parallel time with the slow brainwaves. This is done as a way to recover the health- and memory-promoting benefits of sleep. Results of research seem very promising for this type of brainwave activity stimulation. Studies indicate that this electrical stimulation almost doubles the memory capabilities of individuals. Electrical stimulation during REM sleep on the other hand does not offer similar memory advantages.

Auditory Stimulation to Amplify Deep Sleep Brainwaves

Other promising methods for amplifying deep-sleep brainwaves are being developed. One such technology involves quiet auditory tones being played over speakers next to the sleeper. These tones are synchronized with the brainwaves of the individual to align their rhythm and produce even deeper sleep. Research indicates this auditory stimulation increases the power of slow brainwaves. Additionally, this enhances the memory of individuals in the next morning by 40 percent. However, this is only the case when these auditory tones are played in perfect time with each brainwave. If this is not the case, they will disrupt rather than enhance sleep quality. More information on these and other related types of advanced sleep equipment can be found on the SleepTech page.