As we age, sleep patterns tend to change. Many older adults experience less deep sleep than younger adults, and more fragmented sleep. But the importance of quality sleep doesn’t diminish with age; if anything, it becomes more critical for maintaining physical and mental health. In fact, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), roughly 50% of older adults struggle to fall and stay asleep despite needing at least seven hours of sleep every night.*
Aging affects circadian rhythm, which regulates our sleep-wake cycle. Hormones like melatonin that promote sleep decrease with age, leading to more frequent awakenings and difficulty falling asleep.
Lack of quality sleep adversely affects our health. Lack of sleep is linked to cognitive decline, increased risk of heart disease, and weakened immune function. Regularly sleeping less than six hours per night is linked to dementia and stroke-related brain changes as early as middle age.* Poor sleep can also accelerate visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and skin dryness, due to reduced collagen and tissue repair during the night.
To enhance sleep quality, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine, and staying physically active during the day can help. Reducing screen time and avoiding caffeine and alcohol later in the day are also beneficial.
Prioritizing sleep as we age is vital for overall well-being. By making sleep a focus, you can help slow the effects of aging, both inside and out.
How GenAge Center Can Help
At GenAge Center, our team of physicians and lifestyle specialists understand how essential it is to get quality sleep for your overall health. We can help you assess the factors that may be contributing to any sleep issues and develop a plan to address them. We offer various treatments, including bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, nutraceuticals, and sleep consultations. To schedule a consultation, contact us today.
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