Getting enough sleep is vital for our health. When you fall asleep, the body repairs any damage that occurred during the day. A sufficient amount of sleep also helps avoid heart disease, obesity, improve concentration, and lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Sleep guidelines as we grow older
Our sleep patterns change as we age, and researchers explain that every age group needs a particular amount of sleep. For example, infants aged 0-3 months sleep about 14-17 hours a day, while babies aged 4-22 months need 11-15 hours. At this stage, babies take a few naps during the day to help them sleep peacefully at night.
Children at the age of 5-12 years no longer require naps during the day. They need about 10 hours of sleep at night. At this age, enough sleep is crucial as poor sleeping habits can cause behavioral issues; hence parents should remain focused on the sleep patterns.
In their teenage years (13-19 years), children experience a shift in the sleep cycle. They require about 8 hours of sleep to function properly in school and their day-to-day activities. However, at this age, it is more important to focus on the quality of rest other than the amount of sleep.
Adults from the age of 20-64 years need about 7 hours of sleep to function correctly. However, this can get harder as their life gets more complicated. Adults in their early twenties have little trouble getting sleep, but as they get older, work and family responsibilities can make it difficult to get rest. At this age, adults should focus on getting sufficient quality sleep to avoid getting mental and physical problems.
Adults aged 65 years and above need the least amount of sleep. They also tend to sleep early and wake up early.
Why aging affects sleep
Older adults tend to experience changes in their internal clocks, which consist of nearly 20,000 cells that are part of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN controls the circadian rhythm. Sleep change for older adults occurs due to the aging of the SC, which affects when they tire of feel alert.
