May 19, 2025
Aarushi BhaduryAs people get older, their sleep habits often shift. They might find it harder to fall asleep when they go to bed. Waking up during the night becomes more frequent, and they tend to wake up earlier in the morning than before.
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The total amount of time spent sleeping usually stays about the same, around 6.5 to 7 hours each night. However, older individuals might spend more time lying in bed, trying to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
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Older adults experience less of the deep, restful sleep that feels very sound. They also become more aware of the times they are awake during the night. This can make them feel like they are sleeping more lightly overall.
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There are several reasons why older people wake up more often. They spend less time in deep sleep, and the need to use the bathroom at night is common. Feelings of worry or discomfort from ongoing health issues can also disrupt sleep.
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Having trouble sleeping can be quite bothersome. If sleep problems continue for a long time, they can increase the risk of accidents and feelings of sadness. Even if total sleep isn't much less, people can feel tired and not well-rested.
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Not getting enough good sleep over time can lead to confusion and changes in how clearly someone thinks. The good news is that these problems can often get better when the person starts getting the sleep they need regularly.
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Trouble sleeping is a very common sign when someone is feeling depressed. If you are having sleep issues, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor to see if depression or another health problem might be affecting your sleep.
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Besides the general problem of insomnia, older people can also experience other sleep disorders. These include restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy (sudden sleep attacks), hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness), and sleep apnea (breathing stops briefly during sleep).
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Older adults can react differently to medicines compared to younger people. It's very important to talk to a doctor before taking any kind of sleep medication. If possible, it's often best to try other ways to improve sleep first.
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Simple things can help with sleep. A light snack before bed might be useful. Avoiding things like coffee or tea close to bedtime is important. Regular exercise earlier in the day and a calm bedtime routine can also make a big difference.
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