Lack of adequate sleep among people over 50

Perhaps you are aware of the fact that one third of our lifetime is spent in sleep. But the quality of the sleep is more important than the quantity. A new study conducted reveals the lack of adequate sleep in more than 46 % of adults over age 50. And the mail villain held responsible- Of course stress!

The study has been conducted among a group of 1003 adults by the Gallup Organization for International Longevity Center-USA to examine knowledge of the importance of sleep, sleep behaviour and attitudes toward sleep and aging. The results have been corrected to statistical precision to provide a national representation of all adults 50 or above.

Nearly half of the individuals surveyed said they had an inadequate sleep amounting to less than seven hours of sleep each night and a quarter believe they have a sleep problem. Worry, stress or anxiety rated as the most important cause for sleep deprivation and is more prevalent among primary caregivers.

A majority of the people remain untreated for lack of sleep although more than 80 % of the adults perceive the importance of sleep to their health. Fifty-three percent of adults, who said they have spoken with their healthcare providers about a sleep problem, are not receiving treatment.

It is surprising that the respondents ranked good sleep quality as the fourth most important factor to a healthy lifestyle, following good nutrition, mental sharpness and regular exercise. In addition, men reported a good night’s sleep over the week (38 %) when compared to women (27%).

"The importance of sleep to healthy aging is often overlooked in the medical community, but it's becoming increasingly apparent that good sleep could be a new vital sign," says Robert N. Butler, president and chief executive officer of the International Longevity Center.

The results of the present study reflect that lack of proper sleep is a priority issue, which needs the deserved attention, diagnosis and treatment as it could be as vital as nutrition, exercise and social engagement to the health of older adults.