How Hours Of Sleep Changes With Age?

Wellness

oi-Anjana

By Anjana Ns

Monday, September 19, 2011, 10:03

Have you found your aged grandparents complaining about sleep problems? Well, that is common, as the hours of sleep gets changed with age. Aging sleep is never deep, it doesn't give relaxation to the mind and body. To improve sleep, walking, exercising, healthy diet and a happy mind all play an important role. Today, we shall discuss on the hours of sleep that is required for every age. Take a look.

Hours Of Sleep By Age -

1. Newborn – A just born baby requires about 16-18 hours of sleep everyday. It is said that the babies spends its 50% of sleep in the REM stage. The information gained during the day gets processed in the REM stage as for the baby the information is too much a load.
There is another reason for the baby's long sleeping hours, the body is still to develop and the process helps the baby relax until it gets adjusted to the regular nap patterns. It would take nearly 6 months for the baby to get into the regular routine. Day time sleep can be reduced at the age of 3.

2. Toddler – The 2-4 yr olds would have got adjusted to the regular sleeping pattern and would require at least 11-13 hours of sleep. At the toddler stage, they tend to seek attention and may have irregular hours of sleep. Parents need to ignore this idea and make them sleep in a separate room so that even if they wake in the middle of the night they know to get back to the dream.

3. Adolescents – The teenagers need atleast 9-10 hours of sleep. During this age, they learn and experience a lot of things and the information requires processing which has to happen through sleeping. The processed information is reflected in the exam papers and help them perform good in their studies as well as life.

4. Old Age - As we get older, our quality of sleep reduces. Although the aged require nearly 8 hours of sleep it is not possible as their body doesn't get enough exercise to strain and bring sleep. The routine is often disturbed by irregular nap timings. Many old age people resort to sleeping pills to cure insomnia but instead there are many natural ways that help aging get good sleep. One of the best power nap tips would be warm bath, reading books, soothing music and mild stretches.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.