When you are well rested, you have better attention and memory, and you feel better overall. You are also less likely to fall.
Learn more about sleep and your health.
Sleep changes and aging
How much sleep you need changes throughout your life. Adults usually need 7 to 9 hours of sleep, and older adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep.
It can get harder to sleep well as you get older. You may:
- Find it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Nap more during the day.
- Get less deep sleep at night.
- Wake up more often during the night.
Sleep better to prevent falls
There are many things you can do to help yourself sleep better, such as getting regular physical activity and having a bedtime routine.
Get more tips for a better sleep.
Talk to your healthcare provider
Talk to your healthcare provider about sleep if:
- You are following the tips and still have trouble sleeping.
- You think the medicine you take is affecting your sleep.
- You have a chronic condition that is affecting your sleep such as pain, diabetes, or heart or lung problems.
- You are in menopause.
Learn more about risk factors for falling.
