Which nursing statement would be most therapeutic for an elderly client who reports trouble sleeping after the death of her husband?

• A. Propose small snack with warm milk before sleep and a moderate increase in walking during the day.
• B. Reassure that sleep issues are normal and suggest hope.
• C. Suggest taking sleeping pills.
• D. Propose increasing evening caffeine.

Answer: (A)

Addressing sleep disturbances in an elderly client who is grieving relies on practical, nonpharmacologic steps that support sleep and daily functioning. Proposing a small, easily digested snack with warm milk before bedtime together with a moderate increase in daytime walking provides a soothing bedtime ritual and gentle activity that can help regulate the sleep–wake cycle. The snack offers a comforting cue and can ease the transition to sleep, while daytime walking improves circadian rhythm alignment and energy, reducing nighttime wakefulness without introducing medication risks.

Offering only reassurance that sleep issues are normal may feel comforting but doesn’t equip the client with actionable strategies to improve sleep. Recommending sleeping pills poses significant risks for older adults, including falls, confusion, and dependence. Encouraging evening caffeine would likely worsen insomnia.