Caring for a Loved One with Sleep Apnea: Tips for Family and Friends
Dr. Martin Hopp MD, ENT
When someone you care about has sleep apnea, it’s not just their sleep that’s affected – their health, daily mood, and energy levels may also suffer. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to several health issues, impacting productivity, emotional wellness, and even relationships. As a friend or family member, your support can make a big difference in their journey toward better sleep and overall well-being. Here are some practical ways to encourage your loved one to seek effective treatment and stick with it for long-term success.
1. Start with Understanding and Encouragement
Sleep apnea is often misunderstood, and many people don’t realize how serious it can be. If your loved one is hesitant about seeking treatment, learning together about the potential impacts of untreated sleep apnea – such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and daytime fatigue – can help. Being understanding and showing empathy rather than pushing them will make them feel supported rather than pressured.
What You Can Do:
- Share credible resources with them that explain how untreated sleep apnea can impact health and quality of life.
- Discuss how effective treatment can improve their mood, energy levels, and even reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Encourage Them to Get Tested if They Haven’t Already
Many people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed, and some may be hesitant about going to a sleep clinic. Fortunately, at-home sleep tests now make it easy to get tested from the comfort of home, without the need for an overnight stay at a clinic.
What You Can Do:
- Suggest an at-home sleep test as a non-intrusive way for them to get diagnosed.
- Emphasize that an at-home sleep test is quick, comfortable, and convenient.
3. Support Their Treatment Journey
Sticking with sleep apnea treatment can be challenging, especially if the initial approach isn’t comfortable. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, a common treatment, can be difficult for some people to tolerate, but it’s not the only option. For those who struggle with CPAP, there are alternatives like mandibular advancement devices (MADs), which are custom-made oral appliances that gently reposition the lower jaw to keep the airway open. MADs can be an effective and comfortable alternative for many people.
What You Can Do:
- If they’ve tried CPAP and found it uncomfortable, let them know about alternatives like MADs, which are easier to wear and don’t require wearing a mask or getting surgery.
- Remind them that finding the right treatment is a process, and it’s okay to explore different options to discover what works best for them.
4. Create a Supportive Sleep Environment
Sometimes the treatment process alone isn’t enough to improve sleep quality. Family and friends can help create a restful sleep environment that supports their loved one’s journey toward better sleep. Simple changes, such as minimizing noise, controlling lighting, and ensuring comfortable bedding, can make a big difference.
What You Can Do:
- Encourage your loved one to maintain good sleep hygiene, such as setting a consistent bedtime, avoiding caffeine or heavy meals before bed, and keeping the bedroom dark and quiet.
- Offer to help make their bedroom as comfortable and sleep-friendly as possible, whether it’s by adjusting lighting, finding a fan for white noise, or investing in quality bedding.
5. Help Them Stay Motivated and Adhere to Treatment
Once your loved one starts treatment, sticking to it is essential for seeing long-term improvements. Like any health regimen, it’s easy to fall off track, especially if the treatment requires nightly adherence. Having a supportive friend or family member can help keep them motivated and accountable.
What You Can Do:
- Offer to check in regularly to see how they’re feeling and whether they’re sticking with their treatment. This can help them feel supported and remind them that the effort is worth it.
- Celebrate their progress, whether that means fewer symptoms, improved mood, or increased energy. Small milestones matter and can reinforce the benefits of adhering to their treatment.
6. Be a Partner in Problem-Solving
Some people encounter issues with their sleep apnea treatment, from discomfort with a device to concerns about how it impacts their daily life. Having someone to talk through these problems and explore solutions can make the experience far less isolating.
What You Can Do:
- Encourage them to discuss any difficulties they’re having with their healthcare provider. Remind them that adjustments can often be made to make treatment more comfortable and effective.
- Suggest they explore options like Daybreak’s at-home treatment program, which offers convenience and customization. Daybreak’s FDA-cleared, effective treatment solutions, including MADs, are tailored to fit comfortably and improve compliance.
Supporting Your Loved One’s Path to Better Sleep
Sleep apnea doesn’t only affect the person with the condition; it can ripple into the lives of family and friends who care about them. By offering encouragement, educating them about options, and providing support throughout their journey, you can be a valuable partner in their quest for better sleep and health. Remember, sleep apnea treatment is not one-size-fits-all!
If you or your loved one wants to explore at-home sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment, check out Daybreak’s convenient, effective, and comprehensive sleep care options. Together, let’s make restful nights and refreshed mornings achievable for everyone.