How Sleep Changes with Age and What to Do

Sleep Across the Years

Sleep evolves as we age, from deep childhood slumbers to lighter rest in later years. Understanding this helps you adjust.

Research notes that older adults get less deep sleep and wake more often due to shifts in circadian rhythms.

Aging reduces this sleep hormone, making rest harder to maintain.

Morning sun helps regulate your sleep clock.

Short naps are fine, but avoid long ones after 3 p.m.

You can still rest well with a few smart tweaks.

Older adults often sleep earlier—embrace your body’s new rhythm.

Try sleeping 30 minutes earlier if you wake too soon.

Regular timing anchors your sleep cycle.

Aches or health issues can disrupt rest more with age.

A supportive mattress eases joint pressure.

Support knees or neck for better alignment.

Gentle moves reduce stiffness.

Light exercise like walking boosts sleep quality at any age.

Note how changes lift your energy.