The Importance of 8 Hours of Sleep for Seniors

Regardless of how old you currently are, you need a consistent good night of sleep to successfully age.

Sleep is a time of rejuvenation and rest when the mind and body have the opportunity to recuperate after a busy day.

People spend approximately 33% of their entire lives sleeping, and having a quality sleep is a crucial indicator of well-being and overall health, particularly for seniors.

In accordance with research conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, those over the age of 65 are recommended to be getting a minimum of "8 hours of sleep every night to maintain their physical and mental wellness."

Enhanced mood

Mental health and sleep are closely related. In a number of ways, they impact one another. A lack of sleep leads to issues such as anxiety and depression, and these conditions can lower your quality of sleep.

Lowered risk of disease

When you don't get enough sleep, you leave your body more susceptible to serious health conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Studies have proven that failing to get enough rest puts increased stress on the body, leading to a weakened immune system and a higher chance of contracting infection.

During rest, the body undergoes critical restorative functions like tissue repair, muscle growth, and protein synthesis. All three are necessary to maintain a strong immune system.

Support metabolism and maintain weight

To keep your metabolism and weight at healthy levels aim for consistent rest, preferably 8 hours a night. Furthermore, sleep regulates the hormone known as Ghrelin, which stimulates the appetite. When metabolism slows down, you burn few calories are therefore prone to gain weight.

Improved memory and concentration

A proper night's sleep keeps your brain and memory sharp! Sleep deprivation has been shown in clinical studies to effect short-term memory and reduce general attention span. This applies to all age groups but especially to those over 60 years of age.

Moreover, a lack of sleep or interrupted sleep negatively impacts your ability to make decisions and your long-term memory. Prolonged periods of lack of sleep may lead to memory loss, cognitive decline, and an increased risk for dementia.

Detox

Unlike what most believe, the brain does not actually slow down while sleeping.

Scientists have begun to learn more about the glymphatic system that is responsible for disposing of waste in the body and clearing out debris and other harmful toxins from the brain. The glymphatic system is far more active when people sleep than when they are awake, emphasizing the importance of sleep to overall wellbeing.

An essential aspect of the studies findings is the that one of the toxins that the glymphatic system clears out during sleep is responsible for the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusion

There are many benefits of uninterrupted deep sleep applicable for all ages, however their importance is more pronounce as we age.

By developing a proper bedtime routine, following a consistent schedule, and avoiding naps, you can ensure that your body has sufficient time necessary to repair and restore full functionality going into tomorrow.

David O’Connor