Quality Over Quantity: Understanding Sleep Needs as We Age
As we navigate through the various stages of life, one aspect that becomes increasingly crucial is the quality of our sleep rather than the quantity. This principle is particularly relevant when considering the shifting sleep patterns that accompany aging, particularly after the age of 65.
Specialist Eduard Estivill, a renowned expert in sleep control, sheds light on the reasons underlying these changes. According to him, our sleep needs decrease with age, largely due to a decrease in physical activity and the reduced need to learn new information. Estivill states, "As we grow older, we need less sleep because we don't move as much and we don't learn as many new things."
Contrary to the common belief that more sleep is better, Estivill advocates for a focus on quality sleep. He asserts that for seniors, an average of six continuous hours of sleep may be sufficient, accompanied by one or two short naps throughout the day. "If you see your grandfather sleeping on the sofa while watching TV, don’t wake him up; it's a complement to his sleep," he adds.
This understanding of sleep needs is crucial, especially for older adults who often find themselves feeling tired despite having more time to sleep. Many may errantly believe that with the luxury of time, they should aim for more than six hours of rest every night. This misconception can lead to unnecessary visits to healthcare professionals or the misdiagnosis of sleep disorders, often resulting in the prescription of sleep medications that may not be needed.
Estivill emphasizes the importance of educating seniors about their unique sleep requirements. He highlights that many older individuals might mistakenly think that taking a sleeping pill will enable them to achieve the elusive eight or nine hours of sleep. However, he underscores that this is not the ideal goal, nor is it necessarily achievable without understanding the body's actual needs.
In summary, as we age, the focus should shift from accumulating hours of sleep to ensuring that those hours are of high quality. A combination of adequate sleep duration and strategic napping can significantly enhance relaxation and restfulness. This shift not only encourages better health outcomes but promotes a more profound understanding of our body's evolving relationship with sleep as we age.
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