Myu Lansky on Nostr: The Hidden Cost of Poor Sleep in Aging: A Silent Contributor to Disease As we age, ...

The Hidden Cost of Poor Sleep in Aging: A Silent Contributor to Disease

As we age, sleep changes—often in subtle but impactful ways. Unfortunately, poor sleep remains one of the most underappreciated factors contributing to cognitive and physical decline in older adults. From increased risks of diabetes, depression, chronic pain, stroke, cardiovascular disease, to Alzheimer’s disease, the quality of sleep plays a powerful and often overlooked role in determining our long-term health.

One major shift that occurs with age is a natural change in circadian rhythm—our internal body clock. Older adults often feel sleepy earlier in the evening and wake up earlier in the morning. While this is a normal biological shift, it can clash with social schedules or personal habits, leading to inconsistent sleep patterns.

Another common but disruptive issue is sleep fragmentation—frequent waking during the night. A major cause of this is nocturia (waking to urinate), which may result from a weakened bladder, enlarged prostate in men, or other age-related changes. Even brief awakenings can interrupt the restorative stages of sleep, leaving individuals feeling fatigued and mentally foggy during the day.

Fortunately, simple behavioral changes can make a difference. One effective strategy is limiting fluid intake in the hours leading up to bedtime—particularly alcohol or caffeine, which can increase nighttime urination and disturb sleep architecture.

Improving sleep in older age isn’t just about feeling rested—it’s a crucial part of protecting your brain, mood, and body from the inside out. Talk with your doctor if you or a loved one are experiencing persistent sleep issues. Better sleep may be one of the most powerful tools we have to age well.
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