Mini-naps are key in good sleep for seniors

Many people think that seniors just don’t need as much sleep as their younger counterparts. And while this could be true, it’s important to remember that seniors face their own set of circumstances and challenges when it comes to sleep.

Seniors tend to experience more waking during the night, typically due to common problems like sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome. Consequently, they might not get their full seven to eight hours of sleep while in bed at night. So, it’s important that they take time during the day to make up the deficit.

Regular mini-naps (ranging from five to 20 minutes) are great for making sure that seniors are getting enough sleep during a 24-hour period. These brief but restorative sleep breaks keep circadian rhythms on track, but will still allow seniors to go about their days, staying active and healthy.