Should your sleep style change as you age? Sleep expert recommends it for optimal health

Regardless of how old you are, sleep should always be a priority. But as we age from our 20s and 30s up to our 70s and 80s, how important is it to change our sleeping style?

There’s always been a point of contention over how many hours of sleep you need to get the right amount of rest and feel refreshed in the morning. Research has shown that seven hours sleep is best for people over 35, whereas other studies have found that over eight hours of sleep is better for younger people to help with brain function.

This begs the question: as we age, should we be changing our sleep style? To find out more, I spoke to James Higgins, sleep expert and CEO of Ethical Bedding who said that “understanding the evolution of our sleep needs as we age is vital for maintaining optimal health, as each decade brings its unique set of challenges that affect sleep.”

Below, Higgins explains how you should sleep at each age of your life, from your 20s to your 80s. P.S. Throughout all ages and stages of your life, make sure you have the best mattress to accompany you.

How should you sleep in your 20s?

As Higgins states, our 20s is a time where many people transition from university to working, and there tends to be late nights, partying and socialising which can affect your sleep patterns. “During this critical period for physical and mental development, it's crucial to aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep,” says Higgins. “In your 20s, it's wise to moderate alcohol consumption, especially before bedtime. Additionally, I recommend a digital curfew to lessen the impact of blue light from screens, which can disrupt sleep by inhibiting melatonin production.”

How should you sleep in your 30s and 40s?

Getting a good night’s sleep is important in your 30s and 40s, as these ages are typically the time where many people will be starting or maintaining a family while balancing careers. This can lead to increased stress which impacts your sleep quality. For new mothers and parents, Higgins suggests that “side sleeping can be more comfortable as it helps alleviate back pain and pressure on the spine, which are common postpartum discomforts. A bamboo mattress with more than 2,000 pocket springs will respond independently to the body's movements, for example.”

Higgins goes on to say that: "Entering our 40s, the changes in our sleep become more apparent. Sleep becomes lighter and more fragmented, a result of ageing and reduced sleep-inducing hormones… Back sleeping can assist in maintaining spine alignment, and a hybrid mattress can provide the needed support.” Higgins also suggests adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise to offset age-related changes to your sleep.

How should you sleep in your 50s and 60s?

The middle stage of life is met with significant changes in sleep quality and quantity, mainly due to the ageing process and menopause. As Higgins says, “In our 50s, hormonal changes significantly impact sleep. Using menopause as an example, we know that these changes can disrupt the body's internal thermostat, leading to night sweats and hot flashes. Managing temperature fluctuations is key, so consider breathable, moisture-wicking sleepwear and bedding.”

In addition to comfortable nightwear, Higgins also suggests prioritising side or back sleeping and investing in products that can help support you and improve your chance of sleeping through the night. He suggests buying extra pillows, investing in a bed that can be adjusted to help with snoring or acid reflux and using blackout curtains.

How should you sleep in your 70s and 80s?

For the later stages in your life, Higgins recommends speaking to a healthcare professional about any sleep issues. But in general, he suggests that people in their 70s and 80s should maintain physical activity and a consistent sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, Higgins says it's important to “create an environment conducive to sleep, such as softer mattresses for better support. Ensuring the bedroom is safe and easy to navigate, is key… exploring options like adjustable beds and specialised mattresses to cater to specific health needs, such as arthritis or chronic pain, can also be beneficial.”