How Sleep Changes as You Age
Sleep plays a vital role in our physical and mental health at every stage of life. But as we get older, the way we sleep and the amount of sleep we get can change.
You may notice that you wake up earlier, have more trouble falling asleep, or experience lighter sleep than you used to. While this is a normal part of ageing, there are ways to improve sleep quality and feel more rested.
Why Sleep Patterns Change Over Time
There are several factors that can affect sleep as we age:
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Changes in circadian rhythm: your body clock may shift, making you feel sleepy earlier in the evening, or later and night. You also may wake earlier in the morning.
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Less deep sleep: older adults tend to spend less time in restorative deep sleep, leading to lighter, more easily disrupted rest.
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Health conditions or medications: pain, discomfort, or certain prescriptions can affect how easily you fall and stay asleep.
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Lifestyle and daily habits: reduced physical activity or less exposure to natural light can also impact sleep quality.
The Importance of Good Sleep as You Age
Even if the way you sleep changes, your need for quality rest does not. Sleep is essential for:
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Immune health – Supporting your body’s ability to fight illness
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Memory and brain function – Helping you process and retain information
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Mood and wellbeing – Reducing irritability and improving mental health
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Physical recovery – Allowing the body to repair and restore
Creating a Comfortable Sleep Environment
Small changes to your bedroom setup can make a big difference in sleep quality:
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Invest in supportive bedding
Use bedding that feels soft and breathable, with waterproof protection to keep pillows and mattresses fresh and hygienic.
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Reduce noise and light
Earplugs and a comfortable sleep mask can help block disturbances and improve rest.
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Keep your room cool
A cooler room temperature helps your body naturally prepare for sleep.
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Choose calming colours and fabrics
Soft tones and comfortable materials can help you feel more relaxed.
Why Comfort Matters More Than Ever
As we age, comfort becomes even more important. Discomfort from bedding, pillows, or temperature changes can interrupt sleep — and broken sleep can be harder to recover from.
That’s why creating a restful, comfortable environment is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support better sleep.
Sleep changes are a normal part of ageing, but they don’t have to mean poor rest. By understanding what’s happening in your body and making a few mindful adjustments, you can still enjoy restorative, refreshing sleep.
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