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Impact of aging on sleep quality

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2026-08-18 06:11 UTC → 2026-08-18 06:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Research indicates that aging significantly impacts sleep quality and the body’s ability to recover from sleep deprivation. For individuals over 45, physiological changes such as decreased melatonin production and reduced deep, slow-wave sleep can extend recovery times from a single night of lost sleep to 48–72 hours. Specific factors contributing to sleep disruption include nocturia, often linked to increasing prostate volume in men, as well as sleep apnea, diabetes, and certain medications. For those over 50, menopause is noted as a significant factor, with nighttime hot flashes and night sweats frequently causing awakenings. Lifestyle habits, such as late-day caffeine consumption, also play a role in these challenges. According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults generally require seven to nine hours of sleep per night, though several issues can disrupt this requirement. Beyond menopause, other contributors to sleep disruption include insomnia and physical pain. Addressing these challenges may involve looking beyond supplements like melatonin to focus on environmental factors such as temperature and noise, as well as improving nighttime routines.

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