As we age, we still need around 79 hours of sleep, but the way we sleep shifts.
Sleep tends to become lighter and more fragmented, meaning older adults wake up more during the night.
Nearly half of U.S. adults aged 75 and above have a disability, according to theAmerican Psychological Association.
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Aging also alters the circadian rhythm, causing older adults to fall asleep and wake up earlier.
Additionally, melatonin tends to decline with age, beginning as early as the 30s.
This decline can affect body temperature regulation and disrupt the sleep-wake cycle as well.
Getting good sleep helps older adults with memory, mood, and overall health, he added.
It supports heart health, boosts the immune system, and keeps energy levels steady.
Well-rested people are also less likely to have falls or accidents because their focus and coordination improve.
It helps regulate mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance emotional resilience, Nielsen said.
For older adults, maintaining good sleep hygiene means being more mindful of routines, Dasgupta said.
Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day is important.
Cutting back on caffeine or alcohol, especially in the evening, is also key.
Using sleep aid, however, is not recommended for long-term use, Dasgupta noted.
However, some drugs might have side effects that actually make sleep worse.
National Council on Aging.How sleep impacts the top age-related health concerns.
Hood S, Amir S.The aging clock: circadian rhythms and later life.J Clin Invest.
2018;13(3):457-465. doi:10.1016/j.jsmc.2018.04.012
