Sleep Throughout Life
Sleep changes naturally as we age. Understanding these changes can help people recognise what is normal and when sleep problems may require attention.
Does Everyone Need the Same Amount of Sleep?
No. Sleep requirements change across the lifespan. Babies and children require much more sleep than adults because their brains and bodies are developing rapidly.
How Sleep Changes Across Life
Infancy and Childhood
Babies may sleep 14–17 hours per day. Sleep supports growth, learning, and brain development.
Teenage Years
Teenagers experience shifts in their body clock, often feeling sleepy later at night and preferring to wake later in the morning.
Adulthood
Most adults require 7–9 hours of sleep. Work, family life, stress, and health conditions can affect sleep quality.
Older Age
Older adults often experience lighter sleep, more awakenings during the night, and earlier waking times.
Sleep and Ageing
Many people assume poor sleep is an unavoidable part of ageing. While sleep patterns do change, significant sleep problems are not something that should simply be accepted.
Common age-related changes include:
- Falling asleep earlier in the evening
- Waking earlier in the morning
- Lighter sleep
- More frequent awakenings overnight
- Short daytime naps
Why Do Sleep Patterns Change?
Several factors contribute to changing sleep patterns as people age:
- Changes in the body's internal clock
- Medical conditions
- Pain or discomfort
- Medication side effects
- Reduced daytime activity
- Changes in light exposure
When Should Someone Seek Help?
Sleep concerns may benefit from professional assessment when they:
- Persist for several weeks or months
- Cause significant daytime tiredness
- Affect mood or concentration
- Increase risk of falls or accidents
- Impact quality of life