This Is How Much Sleep You Really Need When You’re Older

An older man sleeping with his dog
Justin Paget / Getty Images

Key Takeaways

  • Older adults still need 7–9 hours of sleep per night, similar to younger adults, but their sleep often becomes lighter and more fragmented.

  • Poor sleep in older adults is linked to increased risks of cognitive decline, depression, and poorer cardiometabolic health.

  • Maintaining good sleep hygiene—including consistent sleep schedules, a calming bedtime routine, and limiting caffeine and alcohol—can significantly improve sleep quality for older adults.

Sleep is vitally important at all ages, but a myth persists: older adults simply need less sleep.

Continue Reading https://www.verywellhealth.com/do-older-adults-need-less-sleep-8720736?hid=0ca66fe91ff78d6c7007974a6522806eea6acf6b&did=16090754-20250113&utm_source=verywellhealth&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellhealth-today-newsletter&utm_content=011325&lctg=0ca66fe91ff78d6c7007974a6522806eea6acf6b&lr_input=9c5e90311a09419ba4a19b50a7cf8c37e57918a879b186daddd071a8fa881c66&utm_term=PM

 

Article submitted to MSRN by Pat France, Retired MSRN Volunteer