Feeling drowsy during the day because of poor sleep patterns, depression, jet lag or other reasons? This daytime bright light therapy is proving to be more effective than even the strongest cup of coffee! Bright light therapy, or BLT, can help “re-set” your internal clock and effectively increase levels of activity during the day, and melatonin levels at night for better sleep.
“The therapy is nothing fancy. It usually entails just sitting next to a special light box for about a half hour, usually upon waking, says Harvard Medical School…… While undergoing light therapy, you can read a book, chat with a friend or catch up on emails.” BLT for Seniors is especially beneficial for treating sleep problems, and has shown significant improvement specifically for patients with Alzheimer’s disease. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28127845/
Although bright light therapy is considered safe for all people, it may have moderate side effects for some (see the link below for more information), and should be used in conjunction with a larger treatment plan that should be overseen by a doctor skilled in sleep disorders.
https://pathwayshealth.org/hospice-topics/benefits-of-bright-light-therapy-for-seniors/